Oh, please run with that thought! I hate it when I hear people say that Aspie's lack imagination, and you're proof that this is wrong.
Maybe we'll get the chance to read bits of your story here??
Good luck,
Anna.
Yes! YES!
I'm pretty sure that most of the characters of Local Reality are Aspergian anyway.
And Meiloyn's Saga too.
It's nice! Although you should also have Russell's view on his Aspergian traits portrayed as well. The way you write about stimming made it sound like a problem, because Russell didn't give his own views in the narration.
Instead, Russell is portrayed as... personless.
For example, you probably wouldn't have understood why Jaku would want to stay with Meiloyn, such a vicious character, if I didn't add a bit of background about how he was abused by his mother, and his own views (though subtly added) on what is abuse.
Jaku really didn't have much to give on input because he was in an entirely new environment, and didn't really estabish terms with his new surroundings yet. He was more in confusion than thought.
What Russell went through in this writing is theoretically something he is used to, so he would have already established his own views on these sort of events. These thoughts should also be added to get to know the character.
On the other hand. Jaku was suddenly placed in an environment he was not used to. He had never been treated so nicely (despite Meiloyn's insults) before, so he wasn't sure what he thought about it yet. We could really only give thoughts he had about his past, because they have been established. That's how we are able to get to know Jaku the character, and how we know that Jaku had never been invited into the Daimyo's castle before.
Also, you portray more of Russell's weaknesses and neutrals than his strengths, so he seems a like the "odd one out". Then again, I guess you're saving the strengths for later to surprise the reader.
That's a good idea, and should make your readers read.
Though I think the steps should be this:
1. His strange behaviours are demonstrated, so he looks as if "he's got problems".
2. His past, to back up a bit, and to explain his views.
3. His strengths
4. THEN explain that he is autistic.
Maybe have him forced into a diagnosis around step four? I'm guessing this writing is only a prototype.
I'm glad I was helpful.
Perhaps, just some great, wonderful, genius ideas from JA (Polish for I/Me), perhaps you could have somebody capture him once he takes over the criminal group and diagnose him with AS. He finds that the diagnosis is true, but is restricted due to the demands from a plan some officials decided to take. As a mini-quest sort of thing, (mind full of videogames), he could try to get his rights back.
This probably shadows my Aspie story in real life, but there are lots of Aspies out there fighting for full rights, so it's a good idea to highlight it in a creative story.
I don't think you should tell the reader that Russell is Aspergian in the narration itself. The events in the story should tell it, because characters will make reactions, and that gives a greater impact. The reader may become angry that character X edges away from Russell in fright, and joyed to see that character Y decided to help Russell get his rights back. You see what I mean?
Hi Rossco,
I really REALLY liked your story. From an artistic point of view, (I too enjoy story writing), then I think it was both well written and very interesting. It held my interest right down to the last word. The writing ability you have displayed here is of a very high standard, and I think you have a good chance of getting your story published. Of course make sure you spell check your work, and check for any grammar errors first, which is something you need to do with this piece of writing - sorry, but I'm a perfectionist when it comes to the written word.
I really hope you stick with and develop this story.
All the best,
Anna.
Will look forward to it :-)
I don't get why Jess is mad at Russell and not Dan...
Just wanted to say how much I love reading about autism from a fictional standpoint. It is much more relaxing than reading the non-fiction expert works, or even the auti biographies. Thanks for adding to the literature!
I also think this is a great way for NTs to learn about autism.