What good is common sense if your situation is uncommon? That’s the question Donato Alfredano kept asking when his son, Denny, was diagnosed with autism. In his engaging memoir, Be Strong, Be Tough, Be Smart, Alfredano shares the unconventional teaching methods he developed as a parent navigating the relatively uncharted waters of autism in the 1980s. Alfredano effectively takes readers back to his son’s diagnosis in 1983. He writes that while he was glad to have his own observations about Denny’s differences confirmed, hearing the diagnosis did little to prepare him for the struggles in the years ahead … Undaunted, Alfredano studied his child with analytical intensity and soon learned to harness Denny’s need for repetition and ritual to draw him into previously unexplored territory. He chronicles this journey in a series of log entries that have the unique ability of a diary to create a vivid picture of daily life … He’s not just writing about idyllic parent-child moments, however. Alfredano uses the stories to show the unique way he encouraged Denny to learn new things … Parents reading this and similar moments from Denny’s childhood will be moved to both tears and cheers. Alfredano’s message—persevere, for there are rewards!—is strongest in the log entries that cover everything from Denny’s special bond with his grandfather to his first days in college. The title reflects Alfredano’s advice to himself, his son, and other parents, but it doesn’t actually explain that the volume is a memoir that parents of children with autism might find useful … Overall, Alfredano’s message comes through loud and clear. His tenacious attitude has led his family to many unexpected successes, and Be Strong, Be Tough, Be Smart offers a realistic ray of hope to other families facing similar struggles. – ForeWord Clarion Review

Author Bio:

Donato Alfredano is an educator, a musician, and an avid traveler, but more importantly, he is a passionate advocate for people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and the families that love and support them. Since his own son’s autism diagnosis over thirty years ago, Alfredano has seen autism spectrum disorders go from relatively unknown conditions to a primary public health concern. His daughter, Giada Star, learned early to value her brother’s unique talents and personality, and shares heartwarming vignettes of everyday life with him. Alfredano and Star aim to share the uplifting story of Denny’s personal triumph over his early challenges, with the hope of inspiring other families to stay smart, tough, and strong in the face of seemingly insurmountable trials.