Funny thing, I've learned from past experiences that anything associated with the word "Autistic" is a conversation-stopper. Like one time, In Japanese class I had to tell my teacher to be patient with me and my need for extended time on tests because I had ADHD. I could tell she rarely worked with special students. Or another time, I was arguing with my art teacher over my involvement with the art show manager and I yelled "Does she have an Autistic niece that she helps take care of?!", his expression was priceless and automatically he shut up and listened to me. I find it funny to see their faces.
As you can see, seeing the topic of autism in manga is very interesting to me. I've only seen hints of it in manga, but I've never seen it as a major part of manga. For example, in the popular manga "Death note" the detective "L" has certain actions and body language, like holding his knees in a chair and being very intelligent but social inept, points to Asperger syndrome. It's only a rumor but it's very likely that "L" has it. But aside from that I've rarely seen characters with special needs in manga. That is, untill I discovered this manga book that widened my eyes.
MANGA REVIEW: With the light: Raising an autistic child
Art and story by: Keiko Tobe
This is probably the first manga I read that focuses on autism as part of the comic. Which is a big deal to me. It's a beautiful story. It centers around Sachiko, who gives birth to her first born child Hikaru (japanese for "light"). As a baby she notices how he isn't developing like a normal baby and seeks a doctor to help. The doctor diagnoses Hikaru with autism. Sachiko goes through many trials and errors taking care of Hikaru, first her mother in law was frustrated with Hikaru because she couldn't understand why he was like that, and sachiko's husband was too busy with work to notice. But eventually, the husband is forced to take notice and instead of distancing himself from Hikaru, he begins to spend more time with his family to help his wife and understand Hikaru. As Hikaru grows up the mother begins to learn more about him like his fear of loud noises, his high sensitivity and the things he does like, like trains. Eventually Hikaru has a little sister and starts to take to her like a big brother. The manga progresses with Hikaru going through everyday life and going to different schools. At times the story seems dark by the reactions and protests of other people to Hikaru's actions. But there are light and funny moments. Like when one he is in junior high, he invites some of his friends to his house. Sachiko comes in the room because she's excited to see her son's friends and how they're doing. Hikaru then holds his mom's hand and starts to lead her. She wonders with excitement where he is leading her to. They step out of the room, Hikaru let's go of her hand and goes back inside. She then realizes her son was embarrassed by her and escorted her out, Just like a regular kid!
I really like this story because when I read it I wonder about my niece Violet. It makes me wonder how she sees and feels the world. And by the way Hikaru talks, it gives me hope that Violet will also talk. Right now she usually hums, shouts, giggles or signs with her hands. But I wait for the day Violet walks up to me with a piece of paper and a pencil and says "Draw mickey mouse." (I did the same thing to my big sister. I always asked her to draw sonic the hedgehog) I wont mind if she doesn't say "please". "With the light" is a very beautiful story, I once cried after reading it. I really like the manga for portraying Autism in a realistic manner. It shows Japan's special education services and their manner of teaching. It shows the many difficulties with taking care of an autistic child, but it also shows the hidden joys that comes with it. A good example of this, is when Hikaru, randomly walks up to Sachiko, grabs her apron and says in a clear voice "Mommy". Now all I have to do is make Violet say "Auntie". Which is hopefully very soon.
Beautiful. Simply beautiful my darling.
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