During this engaging and touching conversation with Padma Jyothi, the visionary editor of the ground-breaking book “Talking Fingers,” we learn about the motivation, difficulties, and significant influence that this anthology of voices is expected to achieve. Jyothi presents her story with enthusiasm, explaining how this ground-breaking effort aims to change the way people in India view autism. She is an advocate and the mother of a remarkable boy who is non-verbal. And the best reveal of this whole conversation will be revealed at the end of it so please do read comoplete article
- How did the idea originate, and why did you feel it was important to bring the voices of non-speaking Autistic individuals to the forefront in India?
There are many books written by non-speaking autistics in other countries. Whenever I read them, one thought that kept coming up, was why don’t we have books like these in India. Around 40% of autistics are non-speaking and our society is in the nascent stages of autism awareness. There was need for a book that brings forth the voices of non-speaking autistics in India and shatter the myths that they lack a thinking mind and empathy. Talking Fingers is an effort straight from the heart that brings their voices to the fore front and ensures that their voice is heard and valued!
- How did you select the contributors for “Talking Fingers”?
All the co-authors of the book are non-speaking and communicate through writing/typing/using AAC apps. Some of them are authors, poets and bloggers, many of them are artists and all of them are self-advocates who have come together to change the mindsets of the society.
- How did you ensure that the various voices and perspectives were accurately represented in the book?
It was very important that the voices and perspectives of our co-authors reach the readers without any changes. That was the reason I wanted to be the editor of the book. The book has twenty five chapters, each chapter has a question and all the responses of the co authors are listed in one place. This way, for every question, you read different perspectives and thoughts that touch our hearts and showcase the varied thought processes of our co Authors.
Endorsements by famous people for the book:
When people dig into the pages of this convincing book, it was embraced by the support of two recognized voices. Harsha Bhogle, venerated for his cricket commentary and astute observations, read the book and showed his support for the book, adding weight to the book’s worth. Besides, Dr Palaniappan Manickam, a famous gastroenterologist whose mastery reaches beyond the clinical domain into the computerized circle as a YouTube sensation, likewise offers his honor. Their consolidated help highlights the book’s importance, promising perusers an advancing excursion of information and disclosure.
What Harsha Bhogale has to say about Talking Fingers:
There is a real need to understand autism. Autism is a developmental disorder and not mental health issue as most people think. People on the spectrum comprehend. It is the ability to communicate that most often poses a challenge. With the right interventions and support system, a group of non-verbal autistic children and adults have co-authored – ‘Talking Fingers’. A book that serves as a revelation into their thoughts, choices, and reasoning. It serves as a powerful reminder that every individual has a voice waiting to be heard, a story waiting to be told. It is just the message we all need – Accept communication in all its diverse forms. #givethemavoice
And, do spread the word. Autism needs communities.
About Talking Fingers from Dr. Palaniappan Manickam’s words:
He says, “I recently read the book, Talking Fingers vol.2. The book features the voices of Indian autistics who can’t speak but their thoughts that are conveyed through typing will leave you mesmerized. Their voices will make you realise that they’re not that different from you and we need to embrace them with empathy and understanding. Imagine how beautiful the world will be when we include everyone and every voice is heard and treasured, no barrier and prejudices but understanding and compassion.
Do read the book and cheer for these self-advocates.”
Grab your copies today
