Iris Grace. The true story of a 5 yr old Autistic girl, gifted artist and a cat

I think I know why I have taken so long to write this. It's because this is probably one of the most beautiful books I have ever read and I've been trying to come up with the right words to share it with you all.
At Christmas time, I was visiting my sister 's when I chanced upon this book. Flipping through a few pages, the photos and paintings caught my eye. I asked if I could take it home to read, wow, I just couldn't put it down! Needless to say I have now bought my very own copy. Whether you have experience with Autism in your world or not, this story of a Mothers courage to step outside the "normal" to try and reach her child, will still inspire and encourage you and hopefully, like myself, enable you to see the world in a different hue.
At 2 years old Iris Grace was "Officially" diagnosed as being on the Autism spectrum. Thus began the journey that would test her parents and herself to the very limit. Realizing (after many attempts) the distress it caused Iris Grace to try and fit in and participate in what was deemed normal (such as attending Kindergarten, family functions etc) her mother bravely decided that they would instead, enter HER world and try to interact with her there. How to break through, how could they communicate???
Then a wonderful thing happened, along came Thula, a Maine coont cat (I had to look this breed up...I want one!) and Iris's beautiful world opened up to her parents and those around her. I will recount just one instance of how this amazing cat worked her magic.
Iris Grace hated bath time, it seemed to torture her and cause pain in some way, washing her hair was even more extreme. Bath time was an exhausting affair for her Mum and Iris, filled with screams, tears and struggles. They had just got Thula as a small kitten and soon after, one night while Mum was trying to bath Iris, along came Thula, hopped into the bath with her and sat there ! A sudden stop to all the screaming, and Iris Grace became quiet and calm. Her mother could not believe her eyes. This cat, this very special cat knew instinctively how to calm Iris, to know what she needed at just the right moment. What ensued was a relationship that completely opened up a whole new world for Iris and her parents.

Then another, most wonderful thing happened.

One day, Iris was given some paints and a brush, she was just 3 at the time (I think) by 5 yrs old her artwork was being bought by art collectors round the world. Impressionist in style, these are breathtaking views from her world, how she perceives light and colours, they are absolutely beautiful . This is a story of heartbreak and victory, of enduring public scorn to triumph. I have only grazed the surface of Iris Grace. It would take a book ..this book..to tell you it all.

Iris's mother is a photographer and a beautiful writer, this book is filled with the most lovely photos and writings. I cannot recommend this book enough. Iris is now 8 yrs old and is still exploring her world as only she can, we just stand back in awe.