Super Shamlal - Living and Learning with Pathological Demand Avoidance

I hope that this book will be widely read by teenagers. I think it shows that, whatever life throws at them especially in what are often such vulnerable and uncertain years, they are not alone; that there is always a way forward, and that there are others out there like them who know what they are going through. I hope this moving book will inspire other teenagers to feel better about themselves and encourage them to harness their passion and determination into a real force for good in this often difficult world. -- Zelda West-Meads, Counsellor and therapist and Agony Aunt for You magazine, Mail on Sunday It is amazing how such a simple, captivating children's story can so eloquently describe Pathological Demand Avoidance to both families and teachers, as well as to the child who has PDA. The management strategies for home and school as described in this delightful book will be endorsed by psychologists and really appreciated by parents. -- Tony Attwood, Minds and Hearts Clinic, Brisbane This latest gem from Kay Al-Ghani looks closely at one of the many layers of the onion that is the autism spectrum. She does it with the same respect, thoughtfulness and kindness she exemplified in her other books. Very touching story. -- Brian R. King, MSW Super Shalmal uses the unusual but powerful analogy of the hobbling of an Arabic racing camel to explain the restrictions of PDA. A sensitive and perceptive book, it is an excellent introduction to PDA for all those involved. -- Dr Clare Lawrence, Senior Lecturer in Education at Bishop Grosseteste University, Lincoln This book is a beautifully crafted story to help children with PDA, their friends and siblings understand this complex condition. Key points are illustrated through a likeable character, and in an positive way which supports the emotional wellbeing of children with PDA and those around them. -- Ruth Fidler, Education Consultant, complex autism