An intimate and inspiring journey into the world of Noel - a joyful, music-loving young man on the autism spectrum whose life leaves an unforgettable impact on everyone around him. Told through the eyes of a compassionate father, this powerful memoir goes beyond clinical labels and stereotypes to reveal the beauty, complexity and emotional truth of neurodivergent life.
Blending heartfelt storytelling with real-life experiences, the book explores the everyday realities of raising an autistic child in a society often shaped by misunderstanding, stigma and fear. From sensory challenges and emotional meltdowns to moments of laughter, growth, resilience and unexpected brilliance, Debashis Paul paints an honest portrait of autism with rare sensitivity and clarity.
More than just a parenting book on autism, this deeply reflective narrative is also about hope, empathy, inclusion and the transformative power of love. Through Noel’s unique personality - his passion for music, his unconventional ways of playing sports, his fascination with cars and his remarkable emotional world - readers are invited to rethink what it truly means to communicate, connect and belong.
Praised by educators, autism experts, therapists and parents across the world, this book is an essential read for parents of autistic children, teachers, caregivers, psychologists and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of neurodiversity. Written with warmth, honesty and emotional intelligence, it offers reassurance to families navigating autism while encouraging society to embrace differences with compassion and dignity.
Raw, uplifting and profoundly moving, I Have Autism and I Like to Play Bad Tennis is not simply a book about autism - it is a celebration of humanity, acceptance and the extraordinary bonds between parents and children.
About the Author:
Debashis Paul is a professional management and marketing strategy consultant with clients across New Delhi, Gurgaon, Bengaluru and Kolkata in India, and California in the USA. The lion's share of his present work is for clients in the education sector. He has previously worked in the advertising field with top-notch global advertising agency networks. He has led several integrated pan-India public service campaigns pertaining to critical issues such as malnutrition, malaria and women's health. He, along with his agency teams, has won many awards for advertising and market effectiveness-national and international (Cannes Lions and New York Festivals).
Outside his profession, one of his interest areas consistently, has been child development psychology much before he became a dad! Today, he counsels parents who have children with learning and social communication difficulties.
I Have Autism and I Like to Play Good Bad Tennis is the first book he has authored.
