Same But Different: Teen Life on the Autism Express

Actress and activist Holly Robinson Peete pairs with her twins in this narrative about the challenges and triumphs of being a teen who has autism and the effects on family, school, friends, and life.

Being a teen is hard enough. But when you have autism--or when your brother or sister is struggling with the condition--life can be challenging. It's one thing when you're a kid in grade school, and a playdate goes south due to autism in a family. Or when you're a little kid, and a vacation or holiday turns less-than-happy because of an autistic family member. But being a teen with autism can get pretty hairy--especially when you're up against dating, parties, sports, body changes, school, and other kids who just don't 'get' you. In this powerful book, teenagers Ryan Elizabeth Peete and her twin brother, Rodney, who has autism, share their up-close-and-personal experiences on what it means to be a teen living with autism. SAME BUT DIFFERENT, explores the funny, painful, and unexpected aspects of teen autism, while daring to address issues nobody talks about. SAME BUT DIFFERENT underscores tolerance, love, and the understanding that everybody's unique drumbeat is worth dancing to. .

Twins Ryan Elizabeth Peete and Rodney Peete wrote this book with their mother, Holly Robinson Peete, to help share awareness about autism with other children who have been touched by it in some way. Ryan and Rodney travel with their mom, speaking to teens about their experiences growing up together. The Peetes live in Beverly Hills, California.