Dancing with Max: A Mother and Son Who Broke Free Book

This was a really great story about Max, a young boy with severe autism and the relationship his mother Emily develops with him after her husband leaves her. Max is actually the grandson of the late Charles Colson who has written the forward and epilogue.

I enjoyed this book because it was so real and gives an outsider a glimpse into the daily struggles of life with a child like Max. Emily tirelessly seeks to find ways to communicate with him and improve his quality of life. Her example is one of complete selflessness, she obviously adores him and has sacrificed her life that he might experience some joy here on earth. They are Christians.

This book is actually pretty funny--Emily uses a lot of amusing metaphors and similes to try and help people understand exactly how she felt and how other people responded to Max's behaviour. There were many people who sought to connect with Max, others who didn't know what to do and still others who really should be ashamed of themselves. Emily perseveres through the ups and downs. The writing style is creatively unique, it's difficult to explain but I haven't read a book quite like this before.

An ideal gift for someone dealing with a child with disabilities or just for those who enjoy true stories of Christian hope in the midst of trials. There is no bad language, sexual content or violence.