With the CDC reporting that 1 in 150 children have autism, the condition and its symptoms have become well-known. In the sixties, when Anne Clinard Barnhill was growing-up, an autism diagnosis was rare and doctors were often unaware of the symptoms. Barnhill’s sister, Becky, did not receive the diagnosis of autism until she was thirty-seven. She was considered “emotionally disturbed” throughout her childhood. Anne watched her sister spend time in institutions where she improved, but was subject to questionable care and bouts of homesickness. Barnhill tells her story in AT HOME IN THE LAND OF OZ: My Sister, Autism and Me (May 2007, Jessica Kingsley Publishers; Paperback Original, $17.95; ISBN: 978-1-84310-859-7; 256 pages).

Throughout the book, Barnhill’s devotion to her sister is obvious despite embarrassing incidents and frequent frustrations over Becky’s behavior. Her parents carefully concealed their problems in order for Barnhill to have a more carefree childhood, though Anne struggled with her adolescence while missing and worrying about Becky. Her parents endeavored to find Becky the best care despite financial barriers and Barnhill demonstrates the family’s attempts using excerpts from her father’s letters to the state requesting aid.  Ultimately, AT HOME IN THE LAND OF OZ is a heartwarming and well-written memoir. Becky grows up and finds her own independence. Anne finds peace of mind knowing that her sister has found a place for herself in the world.

Anne Clinard Barnhill lives in North Carolina.  She has a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and has published hundreds of short stories, features and reviews in a variety of newspapers and magazine.