Who Is John Miller?

Introduction

On May 1st, 2024, the author John Miller visited our school. During 5th period, many of the 6th graders listened to him talk. Most kids heard him from over a google meet. He spoke about his inspiring journey dealing with his autism. Afterwards, he answered some student questions. If you were not able to listen to this great speech, we can fill you in on what he spoke about!

What Is Autism?

John Miller explained that autism is a developmental disability. People with autism can struggle in social situations. Also, they can be overwhelmed by noises. John said, though, that despite these challenges, his mother always reminded him that having autism came with advantages, too! Some people with autism notice things that others do not, and can be very trustworthy.

Early Life

John Miller is 24 years old. He grew up in Massachusetts with his loving mother and father. As a child with autism, he struggled to make friends. So, instead, he played with his hands. They became his imaginary friends! John named the world that his friends lived in Handom. Overall, he created about 30 characters. John felt, and sometimes still does, like an outsider. At the age of five, he was diagnosed with autism. However, his parents did not tell him this until he was nine years old.

In high school, his mom encouraged him to try writing a book! The book starred the characters that he had created in Handom as a young boy. At first, John was resistant to the idea. He did not want to try this new project. His mom was insistent, however. In the end, he wrote a picture book. He illustrated it on his Ipad Pro, using his Apple Pencil. The book was finally published when he was 17, and was called Adventures in Handom. 

Conclusion

Later, John Miller wrote a sequel to his first book. This one was all about friendship. Additionally, he is currently working on a third book! He now works with kids at a daycare. He loves his job. John also does public speaking. John is certainly a great inspiration to everybody with autism, along with anybody with a neurological or developmental disorder!