In this extraordinary memoir, a father tells the story of how music has opened up the world to his son, one song at a time. Obsessed with music since he was a child, John Harris had no idea that he was in fact preparing himself for the greatest challenge of his life. But so it transpired.
When his son James was born, and three years later diagnosed with autism, music became a source of precious connection and endless wonder for both of them. Maybe I'm Amazed describes how the music of The Beatles, Kraftwerk, Funkadelic, The Velvet Underground, Amy Winehouse and many more were soon woven into the fabric of James's life, becoming an essential part of who he is. It takes us through the struggles of raising an autistic child in a prejudiced world, and uncovers a hidden history of neurodivergence and creativity that casts new light on why notes, chords and lyrics speak so powerfully to the human mind.
Anyone who has fallen in love with a band or heard their life reflected back to them by a song will recognise themselves in the story of this father and his son. And in considering the intense and transcendent way James absorbs and connects with music, it has lessons in listening and living for us all.
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Maybe I'm Amazed 9781399814034 Hardback
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A Different Kind of Music Book
A heartfelt, compelling and insightful read, a family coming to terms with autism with music providing a kind of therapy. It will also inspire others to find the unique ways to cope with an autistic relative.
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Maybe I'm Amazed
A fantastic book. Written with great humanity.
- Authors:
- Harris, John
- Year Published:
- 2025
- Country of Publication:
- United Kingdom
- Format:
- Hardback
- Illustrations Note:
- n/a
- ISBN:
- 9781399814034
- Number of Pages:
- 272
- Publication Date:
- 27/03/2025
- Publisher:
- John Murray Press
- Language:
- English
- SKU:
- 9781399814034