Books

On Thursday at 6:30 p.m. the Anniston-Calhoun County Public Library will present a program in recognition of National Autism Awareness Month and National Library Week featuring a book reading by local author Donna Satterlee Ross.

The reading will be followed by a panel discussion of related topics by local professionals and experts who work with children who have special needs. Refreshments will be served. The program will be held in the library's main reading room and is open to the public.

Ross' book, That's Life with Autism: Tales and Tips for Families with Autism, is co-written by Kelly Ann Jolly. Full of advice and inspiration, it is written by parents for other parents and professionals caring for children on the autism spectrum. Its message is that people affected by autism are not alone.

Ross is a former guidance counselor and therapist for young children with autism. Her youngest child, Adria, has a genetic disorder called tuberous sclerosis (which has been described as epilepsy, autism and heart disease all rolled into one.)