Melanie Fowler brings a refreshing and useful balance of personal experience and educated expertise to the discussion of autism spectrum disorders. Melanie does not concern herself with the “whys” or theories surrounding these disorders. Instead, she addresses the daily struggles of children and their families from her perspective as a parent to a son with PDD-NOS (pervasive developmental disorder—not otherwise specified). Melanie tells parents what actually works. Her husband, Seth, joins her at times to offer thoughts and experiences from a dad's perspective. Together, they let parents know that others have been there, that there is hope, that insurance battles can be conquered, and that these special children can progress, learn, and grow. Whether she's describing their potty-training woes or listing supplies that can help improve fine motor skills, Melanie is an honest, experienced cheerleader for the growth and success of these children and their families.