As an author, I’ve always believed that stories can open minds, show new perspectives, and connect us to different experiences. When I sat down to start writing Devin’s Game, this was much more personal than it had been in the past. My wife and my son, Dylan, both have Asperger’s diagnoses, and through their unique perspectives, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges—and the remarkable gifts—that come with this way of seeing the world.

When Dylan first received his diagnosis, we were told it was part of autism spectrum disorder. I remember thinking, “Disorder?” That didn’t sit right. To us, this wasn’t something to be fixed or overcome—it was simply another way of thinking. We let him know right from the start that this wasn’t a flaw, but a superpower of sorts. Dylan’s diagnosis didn’t define him or diminish him, it just meant he saw the world differently, and sometimes, a different viewpoint is exactly what the world needs.

Why Neurodiverse Representation Matters

In literature, heroes often embody society’s version of the ideal protagonist—outgoing, adaptable, and ready to fit in. But life is a lot more interesting (and fun!) when you add some diversity. Neurodivergent individuals, like those with Asperger’s, have unique ways of processing the world, which can add depth and fresh perspectives to any story.

In fact, Temple Grandin, a prominent advocate in the autism community, once said something along the lines of, “If it weren’t for autism, man would still be sitting in a cave trying to figure out how to light a fire.” That quote has always stuck with me, and I couldn’t agree more. The world needs these unique perspectives—they push us forward, challenge conventions, and drive progress. Neurodivergent characters can show readers that there’s more than one way to be a hero.

Devin: A Hero Inspired by Real Life

When I created Devin’s character, I drew a lot from my own experience with Dylan. Like him, Devin has Asperger’s, which shapes her interactions and how she approaches the challenges in her journey. She’s not defined solely by her diagnosis; instead, it’s woven into her character as something that both challenges her and fuels her resilience. Devin’s Asperger’s isn’t a hurdle to overcome but a core part of who she is—just like in real life, where neurodivergent people bring strengths and perspectives others might overlook.

I wanted Devin’s Game to be more than just a story about adventure. I wanted it to shine a light on the remarkable traits that make neurodivergent people who they are. And yes, Devin’s a bit awkward, a little shy, but she’s also fiercely determined, sharp, and full of heart. She’s a character who teaches us that heroes come in all forms, and sometimes, they’re the ones you’d least expect.

Embracing the Humor and Heart of Neurodiversity

Living with neurodiverse family members means that every day brings a new adventure, often with its fair share of laughs. Sometimes the things that make Dylan different are also what make life more interesting. There’s an honesty to the way he sees things—a straightforwardness that’s both refreshing and, occasionally, hilarious. These are the moments that inspired some of the humor in Devin’s Game. Devin might not always get social cues, and sometimes she says exactly what she’s thinking, but these quirks are part of what make her a hero.

Humor is essential in storytelling, and it’s also essential in life. Neurodivergent characters can show readers that we don’t have to fit into a mold to be valuable—that we can celebrate our unique ways of thinking and bring a little laughter along the way.

Why Neurodivergent Heroes Matter

Books allow readers to find themselves in the pages, and for neurodivergent readers, seeing someone like Devin as a protagonist can be empowering. Devin’s story shows that neurodivergent individuals are more than capable of leading their own stories and tackling the challenges they face. For readers who might not be familiar with Asperger’s or other forms of neurodivergence, Devin’s journey offers a glimpse into a different way of seeing the world.

Often in literature or other forms of media (movies and tv) characters on the spectrum are the quirky sidekick there for some comedic relief, and if they are the hero they are seen overcoming their neurodiversity to accomplish their goals. This is not what I wanted represented in Devin’s Game.

When readers follow Devin’s journey, they see her using her unique traits to overcome obstacles in ways that might be unconventional but are no less effective. She’s a reminder that being different isn’t a limitation—it’s a strength. Neurodivergent heroes teach us that there’s no one “right” way to tackle a problem, and sometimes, seeing things from a different angle is exactly what’s needed.

Moving Forward: Celebrating Diversity in Literature

If literature is a mirror to society, then it should reflect the full spectrum of human experiences. By creating characters like Devin, I hope to inspire a greater appreciation for neurodiversity and to remind readers that heroes come in all forms. My goal with Devin’s Game was to celebrate these differences, not as obstacles but as strengths. The more we can embrace the diverse ways people experience the world, the richer our stories will be, and the better we’ll understand each other.

I’m thrilled to have created a character like Devin, inspired by my own family, and I hope her journey will resonate with readers, neurotypical and neurodivergent alike. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned from my wife and son, it’s that the world truly needs these unique perspectives—and sometimes, they’re what make life most worth living.