Tisha Campbell’s new book about his son’s autism serves as a “love letter” to children on the spectrum

Tisha Campbell opens up in her new book, offering an intimate look at her motherhood journey as she raises her autistic son, Xen.

On February 23, the My wife and children star announced her upcoming memoir, The A-word: A mother’s journey through autism and love. The book is scheduled for a fall release via Amistad shall discover the “triumphs and challenges” she has faced raising her son, who was diagnosed with autism at 18 months, People reported.

The memoir was a true labor of love for Campbell, who wrote the book herself after years of autism awareness and advocacy, including co-producing the 2013 short documentary Colored my mindwhich explores how autism is often overlooked in Black and Hispanic communities. Campbell describes the book as a heartfelt “love letter” to children on the spectrum and to the parents and caregivers who support them.

“This book goes beyond what you know about me publicly,” says the actress wrote down Instagram. “It’s raw and the most vulnerable I’ve ever been because I wrote this book all by myself. No ghostwriter just… me and while every individual with autism is different, I hope that my story, OUR testimony, will help that individual, his or her parent or caregiver in some way.”

In The A wordwhich also includes fellow autism advocate Holly Robinson Peete, Campbell reflects on first encountering Xen’s diagnosis and the family’s journey as they deal with therapy, everyday challenges and persistent social misconceptions. The memoir also highlights Xen’s “extraordinary individuality,” combining a heartfelt story of motherhood and love with Campbell’s signature humor.

Known for her humor both on and off screen, the Martin Star said there will be plenty of laughs in the memoir, while still approaching the subject with care and sensitivity.

“Most people know me as ‘the funny one’, and that’s true. The memories I shared in this book contain moments of comedic levity – I mean, come on, guys… It’s me!” Campbell said. “But for the very first time in my life, I have come out from behind the smiling mask I wear to show my vulnerabilities and tenacity, while remaining hopeful despite so much adversity.”

For the devoted mother, Campbell hopes her memoir will inspire and uplift the autism community, while offering encouragement to families and caregivers navigating similar journeys.

“Every battle I fought, every door I kicked down, every night I cried but refused to surrender, was for one reason: my son, Xen,” Campbell said. “If our story sets even one family on the right path before then, every word was worth it. This book is my heart, my struggle, and my testimony – because my son didn’t just need a mother. He needed a warrior, and Xen made me both.”

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