Autism and Faith
Daniel Bowman Jr.
On the Spectrum: Autism, Faith & the Gifts of Neurodiversity
Grand Rapids, MI: Brazos, 2021.
This is a reflective autobiography by Daniel Bowman about his journey into an autism diagnosis and how that intersects with his Christian faith.
On the Spectrum dispels myths about autism even as Bowman reveals new insights into autism, relationships, faith, and the gift of neurodiversity.
On the whole, it is quite a moving story as to how Bowman came to his autism diagnosis, the stresses and struggles he has had, how he is able to contribute to church, and have a career as an English studies professor. As he says, “Autism is not incompatible with personal and professional success, but it complicates the picture” (19).
Bowman advocates for seeing autism not as a disorder but as an instance of neurodiversity: i.e., some people just experience the world differently and see the world differently. Autism is, then, both a challenge and a gift! He bears his soul in talking about relationship troubles he’s had, his difficult childhood, his propensity for catastrophizing, and personal anxieties as well. And yet, he’s been able to, even with many challenges, thrive in his personal and professional life.
He provides an example of how some ways of serving in church are more difficult and stressful for him as an autistic person, while some things are easier and come natural. Bowman shows that it is possible to bear fruit even on the autism spectrum.
The book is a wonderful blend of autobiography, faith, friendship, practical advice, English literature quotes, advocacy, and learning to see things from someone else’s perspective. The highlight for me is the interviews of Bowman by three people (journalist, mum, and a pastor) which provides further insights into Bowman’s journey and advocacy.
If you liked this book, you might also enjoy Lamar Hardwick’s I Am Strong: The Life and Journey of an Autistic Pastor.
Otherwise, check out a video with Mike Bird, Naomi Bird and Louise Griffiths on Autism and Christian Parenting.
I will order this book. I am an autistic Christian, and for me the Christian world has been a very hostile place in which any difference that couldn't be easily understood had to be interpreted and condemned as sin. One Christian woman drove me to the brink of suicide by trying to "fix" me by using Scripture to show me how horrible I was and how much I was failing God. I was undiagnosed at the time and so didn't understand that what she was trying to fix were my autistic traits. I am unchurched and plan to remain so, though I will not abandon Jesus as my Savior.
I've ordered this book. Thanks for this review, Mike.