Dyllan Rafail, 12, publishes book on life with Asperger's

By Rosemary K. Otzman
Independent Editor

   Dyllan Lee Rafail of Van Buren Township is 12 years old and next month when his book comes out, he will be known as a published author.

   Dyllan is the son of Melinda and Craig Rafail. He attended Edgemont Elementary and will begin classes at South Middle School in September.

   Dyllan has been diagnosed with autism/Asperger's syndrome. A year and a half ago, he wrote and illustrated a book for his school's Young Authors' Fair.

   He decided to write about what it's like to live with autism. The book is called "Super Senses."

   He said that he wanted to help other children's families and their teachers understand what life feels like for children with autism.

   "There may be parents who don't like their children because they just think they have bad children," Dyllan said. "I want them to know why they are acting like that."

   Dyllan is fortunate to have a form of autism that is mild on the scale of severity, called Asperger's.

   In his book he shares his insights and experiences with autism, giving the reader a rare look into what it feels like to be autistic.

   His mother Melinda Rafail, a first-grade teacher at Edgemont Elementary, said she shared his book with professionals and everyone encouraged her to get it published and it's finally happening. The book was picked up by a publisher and will be out in late September.

   "They were excited enough about it that they will be publishing it in the EXACT form that he wrote and illustrated it," Melinda said.

   "They are excited about what he is trying to do. This thing has taken on a life of its own and Dyllan and I are just hanging on.

   "Obviously, I'm a proud mother, but he's my local hero," she said. "Mostly, I'm proud that he took on an amazing feat like trying to help others while he deals with his own daily challenges."

   Melinda said she explained to Dyllan about book signings and places they would have to go to promote the book, but he doesn't quite understand.

   "But Mommy, I don't understand why anyone would want me to put my name on THEIR paper," Dyllan said.

   Dyllan's father Craig Rafail is a school counselor in Dexter and former teacher in the Van Buren Public Schools.

   People with Asperger's syndrome show significant difficulties in social interaction and engage in repetitive patterns of behaviors and interests. It differs from other autism disorders by preservation of linguistic and cognitive development.

   The book is being published by KBR Publishing Co. of Harrisburg, N.C., run by Linda Riviello, formerly of Belleville and Canton. To pre-order the book for $10.95, plus shipping, go to www.kbrpublishingco.com and print out the order form and mail to the address provided. To order by email, use the order form and email to lindariviello@yahoo.com . To schedule a book signing or an appearance, call for availability and pricing at 704-794-8752.