A Rough First Draft being published only so I can work on it away from my desktop, 6/24/26

Author’s Prologue

The Adventures of ASPIE MOUSE is a graphic novel featuring a mouse with many autistic traits who thrives — not just survives — by being himself. The message provided is, “Autism is truly a super-power!” If readers learn how to lean on the positive aspects of their autistic traits — even the ones that seem to cause them trouble in the world — they can be productive and comfortable in their own skin, minimize dysregulation, and not need to “mask.”

Target audience: pre-teens, teenagers and young adults who identify as Neurodivergent, and their curious Neurotypical peers. This Prologue serves as an instructor’s guide for teachers, librarians, parents, other caregivers and for readers curious to learn how these autistic traits work (see note to parents, etc. below).

I’m grateful that neurodivergence is finally having its day! Learning that my life-long struggles resulted in part from autistic traits, not character defects, led to peace and self-acceptance. I finally knew who I was! Then I knew I wanted to help others by sharing what I’ve learned by bringing back a comic book character I’d created at age 12, now renamed Aspie Mouse.

However, because Neurodivergence is having its day, there’s now a flood of books on Autism, ADHD, etc. So why should you read mine? Here’s what’s unique about the Adventures of Aspie Mouse:

• It’s two books in one: this extensive Prologue to guide Caregivers is followed by a nine chapter graphic novel featuring several characters with autistic traits who learn how use positive self-talk and curiosity to accomplish their goals, limit dysregulation/ meltdowns and basically be themselves without needing to “mask.”
• The focus is on Autistic traits, rather than “having Autism.” Ever since the DSM V (see Vocabulary below) declared everyone with autistic traits to be on an “Autism Spectrum,” many more people now qualify — including those diagnosed with: ADHD (like me), Traumatic Brain Injury, OCD, Bi-polar, etc. Given this broad definition, most people with autistic traits have never been diagnosed. If you’re curious as to whether difficulties you’ve had in life may be related to having one or more autistic traits — perhaps you can identify with Aspie Mouse or another character in the graphic novel — reading this Prologue may be enlightening. I identify 27 autistic traits, an admittedly arbitrary number, as some traits include several sub-traits, while others stand alone.
• The lead character, Aspie Mouse, clearly “has Autism” — at the former “Asperger’s” level. He looks away, he flaps, he has no filter in speaking; he doesn’t “get” irony; he has difficulty identifying how he feels; he’s naive; he’s unaware — including of his impact on others; he’s a loner; he can’t remember names; he’s emotionally delayed. However, he’s also a genius problem-solver/ inventor who avoids dysregulation/ meltdowns — keeping his anxiety at a productive level by not letting others’ concerns about his safety trigger him to a higher level of anxiety, and paralysis. He ignores personal attacks designed to put him down, because he knows who/what he is and is comfortable being just that.
• Aspie Mouse is an unintentional hero — though he refuses the hero label, and certainly would reject “super-hero.” He’s a more realistic model for those with autistic traits, lacking any typical super-power such as super-strength, flight, X-ray vision, etc. Instead, Aspie Mouse shows that “Autism is his super-power” — but not just his! It’s available to all those rich in autistic traits.
• Aspie Mouse’s unique “special interest” is playing with cats! Should be fatal, yet he survives. If cats chase to kill him; he’ll move “unexpectedly” (autistic trait); the cats crash into each other and fall in a heap; Aspie Mouse looks back, wondering, “Why do cats sleep all the time?”
• Unlike most animal-oriented comic books, the mice and cats in this graphic novel live in a human world; and unlike in comics where animals can talk to humans, these humans are unaware that the animals can communicate like humans, can adapt human technology to their scale, etc.
• Thought reading is the selective ability to read another’s thoughts and/ or feelings across species. It’s a fictional device used in this graphic novel. It’s treated by those without it or unaware of it as skeptically as ouija boards or predicting future events are for most of us in the real world. For those with the most truly autistic trait — difficulty understanding society’s social norms (likely THE key identifier of Autism vs. other forms of Neurodivergence) — thought reading wouldn’t seem any more outlandish than set hours for eating and sleeping, religion, why marriage and family are so important, and other conventions that don’t make logical sense.
• Author’s Credentials are primarily my lived experience. While a psychology major in college, I have no professional counseling credentials, and have only mentored a few others, due to my own autistic traits of preferring logic to emotions, difficulty showing empathy, and making unfiltered hurtful comments from self-doubts. However, I have done much research on the topic, and am appalled at the ignorance I see in too many therapists at Autism conferences who are trying to add “autism” credentials to whom they treat. Since my autistic traits aren’t as extensive as the former Asperger’s level, I see my role as a translator from Neurodivergent to Neurotypical and vice-versa.
• After consulting with key experts in emotional intelligence, happiness and treating Autism, I’m confident my suggestions agree with the latest research — and what’s worked for me. I’m sorry it took 7-8 years to write this, but what I’ve learned just in the first few months of 2026 makes me know it was right to wait and then revise this Prologue one last time.

I created Stupid Mouse (earlier name) at age 12 for a comic book series. I wanted to avenge my six-year-old self’s meltdown tantrums when Sylvester^TM always lost to Tweety^TM! I identified with Sylvester, the clueless one. My prey animal would be naive and clueless — unaware he risked his life every time he’d seek cats to play with. Yet he’d avoid capture — not by being clever — but by moving “unexpectedly,” flummoxing the cats.

How I was clueless then was not knowing I had Autistic traits and ADHD — until decades later, when my 6-year old son was diagnosed with Asperger’s. For me, having a name (Autism) for what ADHD didn’t address was liberating! It meant the behaviors that continued to get me in trouble weren’t my “fault;” I wasn’t permanently “defective.” I could respond differently to being triggered, not take things personally, and stop myself from having a full meltdown. It would take a lot of hard work and support to get there, but it was doable. I had hope. I could take action. I was no longer at the mercy of random dysregulation.

Early on after realizing I had several Autistic traits, I said, “Huh! That mouse character I’d created earlier wasn’t stupid, just unaware of social norms — such as what is and isn’t safe behavior. He was my alter ego: succeeding by doing things differently, minus my self-doubt.” Time to bring back this character, rename him Aspie Mouse, and create new longer adventures where he makes positive use of his Autistic traits — modeling self-acceptance and self-confidence — by keeping his anxiety in a productive zone.

If you identify with even a few of the 27 autistic characteristics (traits) listed later in this Prologue, you should identify with, at least partly, Aspie Mouse and/or other characters with these traits (Toe/ Hashtag, Bobby, Deedee, KK, etc.). Forget the labels: let’s focus on how to express these traits positively!

Purpose of this Prologue is a study guide or instructor’s manual that shows teachers, parents and other caregivers how Aspie Mouse and other characters in this graphic novel can inspire Neurodivergent readers to maximize what’s positive about their autistic traits. The nine panel chapters are first designed to entertain. Then hmm… if Aspie Mouse can overcome challenges that should feel familiar to Neurodivergent readers (at least in spirit) by only having “Autism as a super-power, why can’t I? Additional chapter notes, questions for reflection, and several prior prologues (such as the dropped Chapter Pre-A) remain available at the author’s blog, aspiemouse.com.

Note to parents, teachers, school boards and librarians

I’m committed to making the Adventures of ASPIE MOUSE accessible to all young people ages 10-25+, so they learn how to take best advantage of the positive aspects of all their autistic traits, extend their natural curiosity about things and ideas to people, and reduce dysregulation and meltdowns, while being authentic — not “masking.” This Prologue addresses 27 autistic traits that can be turned positive.

What’s in the way? Navigating the “culture wars!” What satisfies bookstores, school and public libraries in one part of the U.S. could easily be rejected by those in another region (also true internationally?).

• In more liberal places, failing to mention how those with autistic traits wrestle with being accepted for their independent thinking and blunt, unfiltered opinions about politics, religion and sex would be rejected as not addressing their community’s needs.
• On the other hand, more conservative communities are prone to reject any book that seems to “give permission” for their young people — autistic or not — to discuss topics that are best avoided in polite society, and express opinions not in keeping with church and community values.

What I’ve chosen to do is to be as neutral as possible by presenting issues of key concern to young people with autistic traits without taking sides.

Why is it essential to raise the positivity of those with several autistic traits? One reason: the unemployment rate for those diagnosed with Autism is around 80% — higher than for any other “marginalized” group in terms of sex, race, religion, age or physical disability. My personal lifetime unemployment rate as an adult has been 50%. In my experience, we get fired for saying the wrong thing to the wrong person at the wrong time, as well as for having meltdowns.

In order to raise the positivity of those with autistic traits in this Prologue and the graphic novel chapters that follow, they must ovecome their almost universal low self-esteem (trait #20). That low self-esteem results from having bizarre, deviant thoughts (trait #25, such as “If we kill all the councilmen, then we could stop them from demolishing that old building!”) and then behaviors (blunt unfiltered comments, incessant questions, and dysregulation/ meltdowns, traits #21-22), resulting from elevated anxiety (trait #6) and feeling unsafe, untrusting (trait #5). The action taken lowers anxiety temporarily, but then we feel worse after getting scolded for having violated an unwritten social norm (trait #8). One need not mention one’s bizarre thoughts to anyone else to feel bad about having them; in fact, most keep them private. My son at age two (four years before his Asperger’s diagnosis) asked my mother-in-law, “Nana, how do I make these thoughts stop?”

In order to break this cycle and raise the self-esteem of those with these autistic traits, the #1 recommendation by clinical therapists is to learn self-acceptance; liking myself just as I am, which includes accepting one’s bizarre thoughts, no matter how scary, violent or anti-social, as a natural part of being neurodivergent. It’s also OK to feel unsafe, and feel so anxious that the desire to “do something — anything” to lower that anxiety can feel overwhelming (and, as I’ll explain later, it’s better to find ways to lower that anxiety to a more “functional” level.) Some conservative clergy may be uneasy with “allowing” such thoughts to persist, but being “OK with who I am” is key to restoring self-esteem; so that’s where I start: all thoughts are OK. Then, #2, WAIT. Do not act on your thoughts automatically. For the worst ones, it’s better to work with a therapist to (a) identify the unmet “need” driving each unwelcome thought (trait #21); (b) be curious about other people, put yourself in their shoes, before speaking or acting on a thought (trait #17); (c) connect with what you’re “feeling” (trait #7); (d) find a more socially appropriate way of getting that need met. The key required change in thinking is that acting out in a dysregulated way is NOT inevitable. With hard work, one can learn how to be oneself — not have to mask — by accepting oneself and learning how to develop a self-censor (which may be, as in 12-step work, a “higher power.”) Meanwhile, I can still accept myself as I am, dysregulation — including meltdowns — and all. I can be responsible for my actions, and not use “I have autistic traits” as an excuse to stay stuck in helplessness or wallow in being “permanently defective.”

That advice to wait especially applies to disucssing and taking action on controversial topics, such as politics, religion and sex — and to delay irreversible actions before one is emotionally ready (given those with Autism often have only 2/3-3/4 of the emotional maturity of their chronological age). Finding better ways to handle unwanted crazy thoughts (trait #25) — besides expressing them, verbally or by actions — is important to staying employed and avoiding being shut out of activities, as this author knows well. I’m shocked, learning recently that every Neurodivergent friend my son or daughter had during public school (K-12, both are now in college) has declared as “trans,” “non-binary” or to be addressed as “they/them.” Yes, I know we live in a liberal area; and I’m aware that those with autistic traits are less peer-influenced and therefore more likely to declare themselves gay, etc. sooner than most. Sure, it’s a small sample, but I never expected that! Both my children (Neurodivergent and Neurotypical) have so far followed in austism guru Temple Grandin’s footsteps in not yet dating or having a relationship — waiting (though for Temple Grandin, it’s been lifelong.) The “young adult” animal characters in this graphic novel are also not seeking romance — yet. The message: “Wait until you’re emotionally ready” (good thing I waited decades to marry!)

In summary, I mention in the chapters that such thoughts and lifestyle concerns are normal for those with Autistic traits; therefore I hope the most “at risk” young people won’t tune out! Here’s how I present issues of concern to young people with autistic traits without taking sides — avoiding triggering words, discouraging impulsive actions, and encouraging curiosity as to others’ beliefs and feelings:

1. Aspie Mouse and the other characters just treat controversies as matters of fact — just how it is.
2. No mention made of what society should do or what characters or readers should believe (other than that becoming more positive and less dysregulated is a good thing).
3. Nothing is controversial about the human characters: Both human families portrayed are intact (father, mother, two children, who attend church; based loosely on families I knew growing up.) As they say, “write what you know.”.
4. The animals are not anatomically correct. Female mice are portrayed using bows and eyelashes, much like Disney^TM characters.
5. The only animal young adult character ready for intimacy is Mouse #83, who is Neurotypical. She pursues Aspie Mouse with hugs and kisses, which make Aspie Mouse uncomfortable, especially since she already has a partner.
6. Incendiary culture war words are avoided in the nine chapters’ panels, and severely limited in this Prologue: DEI, woke, systemic racism, affirmative action, discrimination, gender non-conforming, gender affirming, non-binary, my pronouns are… (publishing style insists I use “they” vs. he/she, so I use “they” in this Prologue when unavoidable, but not in any chapter panels), LGBTQ+, white privilege, politically correct, etc.
7. When animals question their sex or sexual attraction (no human character does), the clear message given is, as per above: it’s OK to have weird/ frightening/ anti-social norm thoughts; don’t act on those with permanent consequences until one’s sure of emotional maturity, which is usually years later than for Neurotypicals. That includes one animal (river cat in Ch. I) who questions being male: Aspie Mouse validates the cat’s feelings, but doesn’t support acting on them.
8. Making friends, building community and avoiding isolation are supported by liberals and consrvatives alike. These are all difficult for those with autistic traits, and unrelated to the left/right division over whether “pulling onself up by one’s bootstraps” or “government as a social safety net” is the better go-to in running society.
9. The Black family (Chapters E & G) includes one immigrant, but his visiting family returns to Haiti, despite that country’s difficult conditions, because it’s “home.”.Racial prejudice only occurs among mice — gray vs. brown vs. white in Chapters B & H. Turns out to be about social class and occupational choice, not “color,” and the mice end up working together.
10. Violence is confined to 4 skippable pages in Chapter C, when a cat behaves badly with mice. Later (Chapter G) an inattentive driver kills a cat, but again, no blood or gore. Kids may be more grossed out by Aspie Mouse’s attempts at nursing.
11. Religion is treated as a normal part of life — both human families featured attend church — without favoring or disparaging any particular religion. God and clergy can be sources of emotional/ professional support. Both of my parents were baptized Christians. I belong to a Protestant faith community. I have many Jewish friends (in real life, one of the families modeled was Jewish), etc.
12. Identified human characters have ethnic last names, because that was my reality growing up: Anglo-Saxon last names were primarily held by Black people I knew. In many instances, I honor actual people I knew by blending names:first name of one person, last name of another.

The author welcomes feedback from anyone who believes that I’ve strayed from my intent to be relevant to the real concerns of young people with Autism, while being neutral in terms of the “culture wars.” Improving the self-esteem of those with autistic traits is too important to be derailed by politics.

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Continuing this Prologue’s overview: Those with autistic traits are on average more easily “triggered” (trait #9, euphemistically called “oversensitivity”) by many events in life than for most Neurotypicals, and then feel less safe (trait #5), more anxious (trait #6) and more easily dysregulated (trait #21) than their Neurotypical peers. Aspie Mouse and other characters with autistic traits (rodent, feline and human) in this graphic novel generally don’t let being triggered lead to impulsive dysregulated responses, such as having a meltdown, by modeling: (1) responding calmly, not reacting “out of control”; (2) staying positive about themselves, no matter what (even if that means ignoring negative comments directed their way; (3) getting support and feedback from others, even if reluctant to ask, and (4) staying true to themselves — they engage with others with pride, not by “masking” — pretending to be Neurotypical (as girls with autistic traits get exhausted trying to do).

If it’s that simple, why doesn’t everyone — Neurotypical, Neurodivergent, etc. — respond to being “triggered” calmly, staying positive, and being curious? And how did they get there? (1) Simple isn’t easy! (2) When triggered, I feel unsafe and anxious; so I react impulsively to try to feel safe again, which often makes matters worse. (3) I believe all “triggered” reactions to feeling anxious are forms of PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), even if milder than flashbacks to combat or a gruesome accident. As difficult as it is to avoid a meltdown reaction to a PTSD trigger, being aware that my body is reliving a trauma is a big first step to stop the old response from occurring; (4) Asking about another’s point of view is the best way to learn how I affect others, so I can consider making changes if I want those people in my life. Yet curiosity about others doesn’t come naturally to those with services-eligible Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnoses (that is, the old Asperger’s level or with even more severe autistic traits.

The need to feel safe is universal among humans and animals, thus it’s not an autistic trait. However, this author believes that those with autistic traits react differently enough when they get “triggered” when their safety is threatened, vs. Neurotypicals that a core trait of feeling “unsafe” and “not trusting” is treated as a core characteristic. Also, life is about more than safety: rabbits must leave their warren to find food, which is when they risk being eaten. After humans meet their basic needs — such as food, clothing and shelter — they want more, such as: to find a life partner? to create something? to learn? to work for oneself? to resolve a crisis of faith? Thus the need to take risks is as universal as the need to feel safe, even though the willingness to take risks is more varied, based on both experience and hard-wiring. Risk-taking will also be considered as part of trait #5. The trait that’s triggered either when one feels unsafe or one is considering taking a risk is anxiety (trait #6). Being “easily” triggered (more easily than other personality types, as nearly everyone gets “triggered”) is another core trait, #9.

Those who have AuDHD (combining Autism and ADHD, especially the “hyperactive” version) usually have at least one advantage and one disadvantage. The advantage: being distractable also means being curious; so if one can extend that curiosity to people (not easily done, per trait #18, more logical than emotional), learning another’s point of view is most helpful. The disadvantage: impulsivity (part of trait #21) makes it hard to slow down and respond — not react — to being triggered before doing something foolish.

Here’s a familiar chain reaction likely familiar to those on the Autism Spectrum — especially if impulsive — that leads to dysregulation/ meltdowns.

• I get triggered/upset by some situation, such as taking off my shoes and cutting my toenails during a business lunch to lower my anxiety (socially unaware — trait #8), only to hear, “What are you doing? You can’t do that here! Who do you think you are? Are you crazy?” Or maybe something happens that interrupts my routine (computer suddenly shuts down, unsaved work is lost; a dog grabs and eats my lunch; I can’t find my wallet or cellphone).
• I am triggered! I take it personally; I feel unsafe; I’m under attack; the world is out to get me (trait #5)! I will likely react to my elevated anxiety with fight, flight or freeze (see trait #6). For young children of all personality types — but can continue well into adulthood for those with ASD — this is where things “go off the rails.”
• I’m dysregulated and have a meltdown (trait #21). My brain’s pre-frontal cortex (executive function) is locked up, losing access to resources. I may have a tantrum where I raise my voice, make wild gestures, curse and even break something. Or I may look calm and in control, yet blurt out words that hurt others’ feelings and create chaos (trait #22). Either way, my anxiety is lowered temporarily.
• Soon, however, it often rises again — this time with another feeling, shame! Those whom I offended respond angrily, “How can you say/do that?” “Why won’t you grow up?” “How can I trust you?” and the worst zinger for me, “What’s wrong with you?” I’d then feel bewildered, ashamed, anxious — and tell myself, “I’m worthless, defective, something’s wrong with me.”
• I’d dread the next time the cycle repeats, as it would — each time seeming to come out of nowhere. I’d have another uncontrollable dysregulated meltdown, which again I’d feel powerless to stop or limit, and my self-confidence would go even lower.

As noted, I, the Author, have enough autistic traits that — even without a formal diagnosis since I was told pre-DSM V (see below) that I didn’t have Autism, but I had “something”, I knew I could claim having Autism, or as I now believe, autistic traits. That discovery late in life was a relief! I finally had a name for what I knew was beyond ADHD (my formal diagnosis) or being the Adult Child of an Alcoholic (characteristics of ACoA are so close to ADHD that many asserted parental alcoholism “causes” ADHD (I suspect it’s the reverse). Still, changing my life-long behavior of beating myself up proved hard. I’d believed “something’s wrong with me” and “I’m permanently defective” for decades as a way of escaping adult responsibility. Sure, I could now tell myself , “I’m not wrong; I just have a differently wired brain or operating system.” Believing in myself as a worthwhile human being who shouldn’t use “Autism” as a new excuse to stay stuck didn’t happen overnight, however. Good thing I’d done and continue doing a lot of personal growth work!

12-step programs talk about the 3 A’s, Awareness, Acceptance and Action. What reframing meant for me was first to show up (per the fourth A I added, Attendance), then become aware of my impact on others (push past trait #17) and what’s behind me feeling unworthy (trait #20, low self-esteem). The next step, self-acceptance, was the hardest and took the longest. Along with its siblings — self-compassion, self-forgiveness and self-love –it was the most important step to getting “unstuck.” After good coaching, strong support groups and a lot of effort, I finally accepted that having autistic behaviors (and ADHD) is “just the way it is” — like my height; hair, eye and skin color; speaking voice, etc

After accepting myself just as I am, and accepting others just as they are, comes action. Action is about choice! I’m no longer stuck as a version of “poor me — I have autistic and ADHD traits, thus doomed to be a victim the rest of my life.” I have chosen to overcome/ lessen/ question those victim messages — reframing those negative messages in my memory into positive ones. I choose to access a calm and present voice in me that reminds me that I’m a worthwhile human being with many gifts, and that my positives outweigh my challenges. I take calculated risks in curiosity, even if I feel uncomfortable (but not beyond my limit for tolerating uncertainty). I embrace my adult responsibilities to myself, my family and my community, and I ask for support from others. The proof: I can now intervene (take action!) to prevent impulsive reaction when I’m triggered; I’m more curious as to how others see things; I ask for feedback on how my behavior (not my “being”) affects others. When I get that feedback, I say, “Thank you!” — taking in what fits, and “leaving the rest” (as they say in 12-step programs). If I hear what isn’t helpful, I realize the other person probably got triggered, so I don’t take it personally, or believe that I’m being attacked. My current work is to “retire” my controlling “judge” that finds flaws in others, in favor of becoming a curious “witness” (Jungian concept, difficult for most people to master, especially if they came from a blaming household). I feel empowered, not powerless. I’m able to help myself and get support from others, I’m not helpless. I treat others as equals, not superiors or inferiors (especially great for long-term marriage success). Having found my path forward, I want to share it, both in the chapter panels and in this Prologue.

Do I regress and start to beat myself up at times, even while knowing I don’t have a moral failing? Yes, and I remind myself to bring up my calm voice. Do I need to remind myself that my old beliefs about myself weren’t my “fault,” but to get or stay stuck despite my newawareness would be? Yes! Of course — I’m human! Therefore I’m always a work in progress.

Disclaimers, Caveats, etc.

1. This work is designed for readers with autistic traits who can function independently in time. That’s those formerly diagnosed with Asperger’s, (now called “high functioning” or “Level I;”) or who (like this author) have milder symptoms, while on the “Autism Spectrum,” wouldn’t qualify for special education services or government benefits. Those with Profound (or severe) Autism aren’t a target audience, and may not see themselves modeled; some may benefit anyway.
2. The author is aware some of his choices may limit this work’s appeal: chapter panels are wordy and dense (little white space, a lot going on each page); using pencil vs. ink; black and white vs. color. Any or all of these can be altered in revision. After seven years in gestation, it’s time to get this out!
3. The characters and situations in this graphic novel are entirely fictional. Any resemblance to actual people, living or dead, or actual situations, is purely coincidental.
4. The author is not a trained therapist, coach or mental health counselor. No mental health advice is provided to readers in the chapter panels. The author is not responsible for any psychological, emotional or mental health incidents that occur to anyone who reads this work. When changes in attitude are suggested in this Prologue, working with a mental health professional is advised.
5. Treating PTSD, likely present even for those only mildly “triggered,” requires professional support.
6. In the chapter panels, my self-improvement suggestions aren’t made directly. Someone needs to guide the reader, to answer questions such as, “Why isn’t Aspie Mouse having meltdowns?” or “Why isn’t he a super-hero if he never has meltdowns and cats never catch him?” The Prologue explains; the action panels don’t.

General notes: Vocabulary; Thought-reading; Aspie Mouse’s ASD Traits; 27 Characteristics of Autism; Chapters; Reviewers; References

Vocabulary:

In this Prologue and in the chapter panels, the words Autism, Autistic, on the Autism Spectrum and ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder/ Disability/ Difference) are used interchangeably. Though it’s more awkward and requires more ink to say a character is said to have Autism or be with Autism,” as opposed to saying someone is Autistic or is an Autistic individual. Why? “with Autism” signifies Autism is just one part of that character’s being, along with intelligence, creativity, empathy, athletic ability, appearance, and other diagnoses. With the expansion of the definition of Autism via the DSM V to be on a “spectrum,” a lot more people now qualify. That’s why this author in this Prologue prefer using the phrase “with Autistic traits” as previously noted. Autistic as an adjective is OK if it’s about a trait, such as “an Autistic behavior,” “an Autistic meltdown,” etc. The DSM’s formal name is “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.” It is the “bible” for Psychiatric diagnoses leading to treatment, benefits coverage, etc. The 5th Edition came out in 2013; it’s received a major update since, but still is known as the DSM V.

Older terms such as Asperger’s (previously the minimum level entitled for a disability diagnosis) and PDDNOS* were discarded in the USA. Asperger’s and its derivatives (Aspie to describe someone with Autism at that “level”) are still used in the UK and Australia (including in what I, the author, consider the best book about Autism, Tony Attwood’s “Been There, Done That, Try This: an Aspie’s Guide to Life on Earth,” see references) and maybe Canada, as the DSM V is US-specific. I won’t use “aspie” in this graphic novel except for Aspie Mouse’s first name and the full title of Tony Attwood’s book. I apologize for anyone offended by my use of this derivative. I see Aspie as more of a slang, minimally connected to Hans Asperger, who identified this “level” of Autism in Nazi Germany. Plus: he convinced the Nazi regime to employ those with this diagnosis to be great problem-solvers vs. killing them as “undesirables,” as the Nazis did for so many others with Psychiatric diagnoses. Minus: he was as anti-Jewish as any Nazi, thus did nothing to save autistic Jews. Despite the term’s removal from the DSM V in 2013, many diagnosed as having Asperger’s (like my son in 2011) remain proud of the designation, not the man it was named for. Since the term’s removal, there’s a determined battle over its replacements, “Level I Autism” or “High-functioning Autism,” as it still describes a particular “level” or “form” of Autism. Profound or severe Autism is such a different condition that it’s not really covered in this graphic novel, at least through Chapter I. If this work gets to a second edition or a Volume II, a non-verbal autistic character would appear in a started-but-not-yet-written Chapter J. The need to get this work out ASAP after 7-8 long years of gestation means that isn’t happening in this edition.

Other troublesome terminology: I don’t use “normal” to describe Neurotypicals; normal is a washing machine cycle — it doesn’t apply to people! Do you call someone with Autism as having a “difference,” a “disability” or a “disorder?” My attitude is reflected a T-shirt I have that says, “Autism isn’t a disability, it’s a different ability.” I would still prefer disability over disorder (DSM V’s term, right in its sub-title)! Why use a degrading term like “disorder” in a work aimed at improving self-esteem? It used to be worse, though: an older cousin of mine — successful at work and also at home (her husband was neither) — was berated in the 1930’s by her future mother-in-law to her future husband with “What d’ya wanna marry that cripple for?” My cousin and both of her brothers contracted Polio as kids, and walked with a limp. Even “handicapped” — the word of my youth — sounds better than that!

Because these Adventures take a mouse’s point of view, person-centric words are often changed in this Prologue and in the cartoon panels. So instead of saying “someone” when the intention is to consider any animal or human, I may use “some’un.” Same with anyone > “any’un.” Instead of personality, maybe “mousonality” or “animality.” You get the idea!

In case you’re unfamiliar with “masking,” it means trying to hide one’s Neurodivergence by acting Neurotypical. Females with autistic traits generally get more peer pressure to mask to not be isolated, but at a cost. Talking about other people often revitalizes Neurotypical girls and women, but leaves most Neurodivergent females exhausted.

*PDDNOS stood for “Pervasive Developmental Delay, Not Otherwise Specified.” Originally used for those between Profound Autism and Asperger’s, it moved down to describe those, like this Author, whose symptoms are milder, thus didn’t qualify for “benefits” at the Asperger’s level (though I clearly had “something” my doctor said) before the DSM V put everyone in one big tent. I’ve coined my own words for those initials: Perhaps, Dunno, Doubtful, Not Otherwise Sure!

Thought-reading

In the cartoon panels, you will notice three types of “balloons” attributed to the characters. Talking balloons are straight-forward: a solid line around the balloon with an arrow-like extension to whomever (un’ever?) is speaking.

The second type of balloon is a thought that’s not expressed, and not intended to be shared; several of these balloons were added after the chapter was written to indicate what the character is thinking or feeling, when it’s different from what they’re saying. These not-intended-to-be-shared thoughts are shown in this work by a cloud-like border to the balloon, like an endless series of mounds (imagine the lower case letter M without the initial straight vertical line — m). It’s to remind readers that it’s unfair to compare what I’m feeling inside (my insides) to how another is presenting themself (their outsides). An autistic trait is to say whatever one is thinking, and incorrectly assume others do the same.

The third type of balloon is a “Thought-reading balloon” — border is a series of closed loops, like a series of top-to-bottom links of the number 8. Thought reading is a fictional device allowing communication among species and with characters who do/don’t speak or hear. It’s like time travel, lightspeed travel and super powers: fictional devices used by authors. This work’s primary fictional device is that animals are human-like in communication, thought complexity, etc. Unlike most animal comics, these animals co-exist with humans. Thought-reading is purposely limited: some animals/ people have it, most don’t. Some can fully grasp what another says, while others are limited to reading emotions and/or general concepts. Thus most characters doubt thought-reading exists, just as people in our world doubt others’ ability to predict the future, commune with the dead, experience reincarnation, etc. For so many with ASD, grasping real-life social understanding rules seems just as magical as thought-reading!

27 Characteristics (Traits) of Autism

There are various “lists” of Autistic traits available. One this author finds especially valuable is in Tony Attwood’s 2014 best-seller, “Been There, Done That, Try This: an Aspie’s Guide to Life on Earth,” as already referenced. Its 17 chapters cover life issues of high-functioning individuals with Autism in the U.S., U.K. and Australia, in the order of how many mention it. Ch. 1, Anxiety; Ch. 2, Low Self-Esteem; Ch.3, Difficulty Accepting Change; Ch. 4, Meltdowns, etc. (masking, employment, relationships, etc.).

The 27 traits in these Adventures are ordered differently;

• I start with recognizable physical traits (#1-4) that are widely recognized signs of Autism. They may be absent or hidden from view for those whose Autism is milder (that is, less pronounced than for Level 1, formerly Asperger’s).
• The second set (#5-10) are six core traits (emotions, feelings, or ways of thinking and operating) that show up as responses to being “triggered,” making life with ASD especially difficult, and leading to low self-esteem. Most of these traits do occur in other personality types — but less often. However, Trait #8 (Lack of Social Understanding) is clearly and almost exclusively an autistic trait — if you have this trait, you are on the Autism Spectrum.
• Traits 11-16 are generally viewed as positive traits: non-autistic individuals may possess one or two of them. However, in those with strong ASD profiles are heavily found as a package (most have all six) among them, and represents their greatest strengths, or autistic super-power. In combination, they form that “Autism is my super-power” confidence that leads to praises and rewards for their creativity. Finally, traits 17-27, mostly derived from 5-10, are generally seen as negative characteristics associated with Autism. Some have positive sides to them; if so, I point those out, using examples from the chapter panels. For others, the positive thing to do is to learn how to create more awareness in order to pay attention to how they cause negative effects with others, allowing more choices as to how one might respond when they show up.

I don’t list frozen executive function, dysregulation and meltdowns as core 5-10 traits — though they’re well-known Autistic responses that reduce self-esteem every time they show up — because these out-of-control states result from one or more of the core six traits (5-10), they’re not the cause. Therefore, they’re listed with traits 17-27 (trait #21 in particular), generally negative behaviors associated with Autism. As for “being triggered” (trait #9), it’s also universal, because it applies to any human who has anxiety — which is nearly everyone whose fear of death or bodily harm (like from a lion or a mugger) isn’t immediate, but based on past situations. Doesn’t even matter whether one’s anxiety is the good type or bad type of Anxiety (see Trait #6 below) — that gets “triggered” from time to time. I’ve chosen to put it in with “overly sensitive,” because what makes it an autistic trait is that word “easily!”

1. No Eye Contact
2. Sensory Sensitivity
3. Self-regulation: Speech, Stimming
4. Body Positioning, Sense of Personal Space
   • ——–
5. All Feels Unsafe; Lack of Trust
6. Anxiety: Performance-level vs. Dysregulating; Fight, Flight, Freeze, Fawning Responses
7. Difficulty Identifying Feelings/ Emotions, Then Not Show or Over-express Feelings.
8. Lack of Social Understanding
9. Overly Sensitive, Easily Triggered
10. All or None Thinking
    • ——–
11. Problem-solving by Pattern-Seeking
12. Special Interests
13. Inventive Independent Thinker, Works Well Independently, Self-entertaining
14. Unexpected (vs. Unacceptable) Behavior
15. Rule Follower; Honest, Innocent, Naive
16. Loves Routine, Dislikes Change
    • ——–
17. Unaware of Impact of Actions, Words on Others
18. Prefers Logical, Not Emotional Responses
19. Emotionally Delayed
20. Low Self-Esteem
21. Dysregulation, Meltdowns, Impulsive Behavior, Aggressive Speech/Questions
22. Blunt Speech with No Filters
23. Difficulty Identifying Others’ Faces, Names or Reading Body Language
24. Brain is Disconnected from Body: Hygiene, Feelings and Basic Needs
25. Bombarded by Thoughts; Many Are Frightening, Extreme
26. Depression, Suicidal Thoughts, Cutting and Other Self-Harm
27. Hard to Get and Keep Friends, Relationships and Jobs

Traits 1-4: Visible Autistic Traits (varies from individual to individual)

These traits are listed first because they’re visible to others, and heavily associated with having Autism. However, like most autistic traits, having one or two doesn’t mean Autism is one’s primary Neurodivergent diagnosis. Also, those with milder forms of Autism may not exhibit some or any of these, or may be more subtle when and how they’re expressed.

1. No eye contact. Aspie Mouse consistently looks “up,” never looking anyone in the eye. Any’un who looks up or away instead of at another is on the Autism Spectrum for that trait. Bobby, the human boy in Chapters C-G is also shown looking up, as his sister complains on page C-2. It’s such a marker for Autism that a famous book, “Don’t Look Me in the Eye” by John Elder Robison (see references) was written by a frustrated automotive genius with Autism. Possible exceptions: an extremely shy Neurotypical; or in a society where looking into the eyes of someone of higher rank is forbidden. Many with milder Autism, such as this author, will do eye contact when reminded or if feeling trust for the speaker, while looking away during times of stress (elevated anxiety). I love public speaking and story-telling, but got criticized in Toastmasters for not looking at my audience — I’d lose track of my words if I did! Other characters with Autistic traits who may look away at times, but not consistently; are shown with regular eyes in this graphic novel. Neurotypicals accuse those with ASD who won’t look them in the eye as “hiding something.” That’s usually unfair. Those with Autism are more likely be bluntly honest. The benefit of not looking in another’s eyes is to maintain lower levels of anxiety in social situations; also helps in remembering lines in a play or a speech. However, one can learn how to look at someone for short periods of time to put the other person at ease, especially a boss, teacher or hiring manager.
2. Sensory sensitivity didn’t become an official Autistic characteristic until the DSM V, yet it’s widely perceived as nearly universal in Autism: problems with fluorescent lights, loud or persistent sounds, dislike of some touch while craving others, strong reaction to certain smells, food textures, etc. In these Adventures, it’s seen in Aspie Mouse’s eccentric food preferences (OK in children, less common in Neurotypical adults) as early as Ch. A, when he is careful which foods he throws out of the refrigerator. Predictability in food is a way to feel “safe,” lowering anxiety (same baloney sandwich every day for lunch for months or years). Feeling unsafe by what’s unexpected or unwanted is why lights and computer screens can’t be flickering, clothing is either essential or too irritating on certain parts of one’s body (example: feet on bare ground or its opposite, must wear shoes and/ or socks any time of year), and constant sounds that one can’t control can provoke wild behaviors. Car alarms that keep beeping also annoy Neurotypicals, but are so upsetting to those with this Autistic trait that they’re much likelier to have a full meltdown tantrum. (I won’t have a gun: if a neighbor’s TV is so loud I can make out words and tunes, I could be tempted me to use it!) Such sensitivity has its benefits. My son detects food that’s just a little bit “off” (starting to go bad) before anyone else. Food sensitivity helps Aspie Mouse avoid being poisoned by the exterminator’s sandwich in Ch. D. Later in Ch. D, he isn’t tempted by the bait put in mousetraps. Avoiding loud music as an adolescent might delay or prevent needing hearing aids in old age. Sensitivity can be a great thing when it comes to art and musical appreciation, sensuality in touching another, etc. It’s no accident that so many great artists, speakers, writers and composers (Mozart, Emily Dickinson, etc.) are pegged with autistic traits: being extrs-sensitive can lead to great things.
3. Self-regulation is the ability to avoid meltdowns, jammed executive function, etc. by lowering anxiety in various ways. One way is through speech: some keep repeating something over and over; some speak louder than is called for; some keep talking and talking, not letting others speak, or keep asking questions in a group situation, while their annoyed peers roll their eyes. Aspie Mouse’s sister says he’s too loud on page I-33. Others with this trait say very little, mumble, swallow their words and use a monotone; some avoid asking questions, even when confused. Anxiety (trait #6) in not feeling safe (trait #5) usually drives these behaviors. It lowers the speaker’s anxiety, but may make others feel less safe. Another way to self-regulate is by Stimming: Aspie Mouse flaps when anxious, both positively with excitement, and negatively when unsure of what’s happening. He also loves spinning around rapidly. Playing with objects, often called “fidgets” is another way to self-soothe and reduce anxiety. Because mice lack pockets, Bobby, is shown using fidgets; he also “flaps.” With a milder form of Autism, I neither flap nor spin, but slowly sway back and forth while standing in a line or circle to feel safer, less anxious. Deedee bangs her head on a pillow to soothe herself (mentioned on pp. C4,15) — which I also did as a kid, much to my Scoutmaster’s dismay during cabin overnights.
4. Body Positioning/ Personal Space: It’s ironic that being overly sensitive (traits #2,9) doesn’t apply to awareness of one’s own body in space. One aspect is body positioning, such as bumping into people unaware; also standing either too close or too far away from others (unrelated to ethnic differences, such as that Scandinavians are less comfortable standing close to others than are Mediterranean peoples). This trait derives from not understanding social norms (trait #8). A famous example is when there are five urinals in a bathroom, and #1 is occupied, a man not understanding the norm may go to urinal #2, instead of #5 or #3. An example from my own life: I rinsed my hands in another man’s shower at the Y to “save water” — noble environmentally, but invading another’s personal space is a social no-no. Not that many examples that occur to me in the nine panel chapters. Trait #24 covers two other related “body awareness” issues: personal hygiene and disconnection of mind and body.

Traits 5-10: Key Core Emotional and Thought Pattern Traits Associated with Autism

Autistic traits 5-10 are the core internal self-defense reactions (emotions, thought patterns, behaviors) to “feeling unsafe,” that, due to lack of awareness, mindfulness or time to choose a different response, lead to the unexpected behaviors and dysregulation that cause so many problems for those with autistic traits and create barriers between them and Neurotypicals. Facing shame and bewilderment for yet again getting negative feedback from others after yet another unexpected dysregulation/ meltdown, the one with the Autistic traits suffers another blow to self-esteem and not only is trusted less by others, but trusts themself less, too. The solution is to become more self-aware as to what’s going on, to stop the bewilderment. Then develop self-acceptance: it’s not my “fault” that I’m this way, I just have a different “operating system” than most folks,” thus stopping the shame and low self-esteem. I’m not suggesting “masking,” or pretending to be more Neurotypical to “fit in.” Instead, learn self-respect and pride being who you are, knowing your Autism is a useful difference — not a disability; you can choose to be safe and take risks.

Throughout this graphic novel, the three primary “issues” that crop up most often are trait #5, feeling unsafe; trait #6, anxiety and trait #8, poor social understanding. They often work together: I violate some social norm, such as asking a cheerleader on a date when “everyone knows” (but me, apparently) that she’s dating the captain of the football team. Another’s response, such as “What’s wrong with you? Are you crazy?” will add to my mistrust/ not feeling safe, then raise my anxiety level, and however I respond in the moment, the pushback will have me internalize the message, “What’s wrong with me? Am I crazy?” This is how I’d react for decades after being criticized for some reaction to being triggered!

5. All Feels Unsafe; Lack of Trust: The need to feel safe is universal — certainly for humans, and likely for all sentient animals. What makes this an autistic trait is that we never feel really safe. I don’t trust others because the unwritten social rules I often violate (they get angry) seem arbitrary to me (trait #8). More important: I don’t trust myself (the key to low self-esteem, trait #20) because at any moment I may get triggered, dysregulate, have a meltdown. As a therapist said to me many years ago: “(I) believe I’m only three feet tall, so to feel better I try to cut everyone else down to two foot nine!” I’d belittle others; they’d get angry with me, so I couldn’t trust them! Lacking trust or good boundaries, I’d not know if acting on some thought was a good idea, so I’d behave unexpectedly (trait #21) without considering possible impact on others (trait #17). Always feeling unsafe at a low level, I am easily triggered (trait #9), which raises my anxiety (trait #6)\.

We have trouble ranking our safety priorities. Because everything feels unsafe, we have trouble ranking our safety priorities. That upsets others, such as spouses, bosses, etc., who have a much clearer hierarchy of safety. In my mind, avoiding feeling shame for something I might say often seems more important than driving safely, but my wife disagrees. For her, potential for death, severe injury, etc. from an auto accident is a far greater safety concern than being humiliated, despite happening less often. When I don’t feel safe, I make everything black or white, either/or (trait #10), because it’s a quick — if often incorrect — way to resolve uncertainty, and move on. When I don’t feel safe, yet I’m not clear on what I’m feeling (trait #7), I may miss signals, such as mistaking my own rising anxiety for anger or shame, and make a poor response for the situation. Those with this autistic trait often share their thoughts freely — with no filter; others assume that’s because they trust whomever they’re speaking to. No, it’s not trust — it’s lack of judgment/ discernment! We make poor diplomats or spies! Might this help explain why Aspie Mouse ignores all pleas to stop playing with cats? So far, he hasn’t suffered any more from doing that than any other activity; so, since it’s fun, he might as well keep doing it!

Growing up, I found no place with that felt safe enough for me to relax and “be myself” with others, except when deep in play with another child (while aware parents were close by if needed). I’d always worry one of my unfiltered comments might be blurted out at any time. While alone (and as an only child feeling lonely), I’d create fantasy worlds where I controlled all the outcomes. Shame and anxiety never came up in these fantasy worlds. No wonder so many kids — and adults — with and without autistic traits — spend all day playing video games!

Remember that the need to feel safe is not enough — that we also have a need to take risks, be curious, etc. Some people take too many risks — and end up injured, imprisoned or dead. Yet virtually every successful business owner fails more than once, yet tries again. Reluctance to take risks is widespread among Neurotypicals, too — those who are “shy, perhaps having PTSD after a “risk” early in life. The fight response to anxiety (trait #6) requires taking a risk, even if the risk-taker isn’t aware of that; the freeze/ flight responses avoid risk, staying safe, even if things end badly for what one doesn’t do. Those with these autistic traits believe they lack choice: their executive function locks up and no matter whether they fight or freeze/ take flight, a meltdown (trait #21) feels inevitable. Another reason taking risks or taking action to feel safer can be harder for those with several autistic traits is that taking risks or action requires making a decision. Decision-making is much harder than problem-solving for those with several autistic traits (see traits 10,16,21) — perhaps an inability to decide on what to do is behind most “freeze/flight” responses.

If I don’t feel safe, I’m not going to trust anybody! That’s how feeling safe and lack of trust go together. If I trust no one, how can I make friends, have a romantic relationship or get along with bosses, colleagues and customers at work? What’s positive about not trusting? If I’m suspicious as to the motives of others (are they really interested in my welfare?), it can balance the naivete and innocence (trait #15) that’s usually also present. The best way to learn to trust — to be able to have close friendships and relationships with others — is to, quoting Ronald Reagan about dealing with the Soviet Union, “Trust, but verify!” Instead of blurting all my darkest thoughts to someone I’ve just met, to see if they won’t run away, start with a small revelation that shouldn’t harm you much if repeated; if they recoil or blab it all over town, that’s not the right person to trust. But if they seem to respond favorably (“Thanks for sharing. I also hesitate to share certain thoughts, but let me tell you one of mine…”), go just a little deeper, etc. — revealing yourself gradually. If someone you think you finally trust does something that you see as a betrayal, hold off on accusations while you try to learn what that person’s motivation was for what they did — it may not have been directed at you, even if it felt that way to you. In general, try to interpret what someone says in a more positive way: if as a grownup, your mother still calls you daily, asking if you’ve combed your hair and brushed your teeth, instead of thinking “she’s trying to controll me again,” reinterpret her question as “I love you, and don’t know a better way to tell you.” She may never change what she says, but it’ll benefit you to hear it differently. One of the great values of religion is the ability to put one’s trust in God or Higher Power, etc. If you don’t believe in God (and most with several autistic traits don’t — see trait #10), consider trusting “the universe” or some “universal spirit.” After witnessing events that seemed almost too perfect to be coincidence, I started trusting the Universe a little, then myself a little, then men, then women; only then was I ready to let the woman who’d become my wife “in”! Why do many folks with this autistic trait bond very well with animals? Animals don’t talk, so they can’t shame or betray you the way a person can.

Let’s look at how “feeling safe,” “taking risks” and “not trusting others” are portrayed in the nine panel chapters. Aspie Mouse trusts cats (though he shouldn’t), but not other mice; and he trusts child humans — because they play — but not adult humans — because they don’t! Aspie Mouse feels safe when he “plays with cats,” because to him it’s a game, and he’s so busy playing (taking bigger risks than he realizes) — keeping his anxiety at the “performance level” (see trait #6, anxiety, below) — that he has no time to worry or dysregulate. Female mice are impressed with Aspie Mouse’s daring-do (Toe/Hashtag in Ch’s. B&G & Mouse #83 in Ch’s. C-G), but they hesitate to depend on him, as they’re worried cats will kill him soon. One time Aspie Mouse’s “play” causes others to feel unsafe (without him meaning to cause problems) is in Chapters A & H: he tears a house apart, the housecat runs away from home; yet he’s unaware of the harm he’s caused until the human homeowner professor scolds him. Aspie Mouse’s sister E-flat (Ch. I) has trouble believing her brother cares for her if he can’t remember her name! But Aspie Mouse feels betrayed when E-flat withholds key information until the very end of a day together.

Bobby, the human boy in Chapters C-G, is frustrated that his mother and sister don’t trust or believe him, despite his great intuition about “bad actors,” such as Brilli the cat in Ch. C, and Mr. Kaputin (the exterminator) in Ch. D. Toe/Hashtag (Ch’s. B & G) doesn’t trust male mice after living with her brothers Tic and Tac. Aspie Mouse’s sister E-flat in Chapter I feels safest when she’s singing — and she’s lucky her home’s unsuspecting human is deaf. DeeDee in Chapter E feels safest keeping quiet, doing artwork, and being with her therapy dog; but after Aspie Mouse threatens her dog’s loyalty to her, she starts saying what she hasn’t said, and feels safer and and more confident.

6. Anxiety: Performance-level vs. Dysregulating; Fight, Flight, Freeze, Fawning Responses: Anxiety is a form of fear. Fear is one of the core emotions (feelings) everyone feels (see trait #7 below). The working definition used in this Prologue is that anxiety is fear (of death or physical harm, even if that level of danger is not conscious) that’s “triggered” by an event or thought that reminds me of (or is contaminated by) a dangerous situation in my past (which may also not be in my conscious memory). My adrenaline is pumping, my heart is racing; I’m on high alert, ready to defend myself. Unlike straight fear, however — when there’s an immediate threat to my life or physical safety, say a mountain lion is about to pounce on me, or my car’s brakes fail when I’m going 70 mph and everyone’s stopped ahead — anxiety shows up in my mind, despite no imminent danger threat in the moment.

Anxiety is widespread in society, with some estimates suggesting up to 70% of Americans experience it frequently. So regular worrying is not limited to those having an autistic trait, and many people of all personality types are more afraid of bad events with a lower chance of happening (dying in an airplane crash) than one far more likely (dying in an auto crash). Widespread anxiety is easily exploited by advertisers, politicians and some clergy. The impact of anxiety on those with this utistic trait is greater than for others because: it’s universal (just about everyone with the autistic version of anxiety is aware it’s a problem in their life); it’s constant, at least at a low level (one is always at least somewhat anxious); one’s reactions to anxiety being elevated are more extreme (meltdowns); defenses against its elevation are weaker (often unaware anxiety is rising). In Tony Attwood’s “Been There, Done That, Try This…” (see Vocabulary above & References at the end), anxiety is listed as the most widely experienced concern of those who have Autism, at 98%! In no other personality type is it that widespread. Why anxiety is almost always present in its autistic form is because of that lack of trust (trait #5); one never feels truly safe. And because low-level anxiety is always there, when it rises, the rise may not be noticed. Defenses are weaker due to low self-esteem (“I deserve to be punished”), reinforced by negative voices in one’s head.

Anxiety is a positive emotion when it helps focus the mind on a task at hand: a pianist focuses so totally on what they’re about to play in concert, becoming calm and confident, yet highly alert, able to shut out all distractions. This level of anxiety — performance-enhancing focused anxiety — is what Aspie Mouse — along with Toe/Hashtag and other adult characters with Autism in these Adventures — usually maintain. When one’s anxiety increases above that function-enhancing level — then it becomes a problem. Instead of focused attention, responses are fight, flight, freeze or fawning. Whichever shows up, it’s dysregulating, as elevated anxiety is a form of PTSD — the unconscious mind remembers some old trauma that it doesn’t want to repeat. By acting as if it’s the same threat, it keeps that old trauma, likely irrelevant today, active, and it tries to respond using old techniques, such as having a tantrum.

Most Autistic meltdowns are freeze meltdowns: my body’s still here, my brain is elsewhere; I have shut down. They’re often a response to anger. Since childhood — especially when someone else is angry — one’s instinct is, “I’ll feel safer if I become like a statue and do nothing.” Not a good response for a parent who needs to act, however. And it may result in others believing the one who freezes “doesn’t care.” They have one advantage: the conscious mind in theory has more time to go in and “unfreeze.” But it usually won’t until the triggering event is gone. Drivers with Autism are advised carry a card explaining this, in case they are pulled over by police, to avoid “frozen in fear” being interpreted by police as acting “guilty.” Similar is flight: physically leaving the scene or staring at one’s cellphone. Fawning is groveling, “I’m sorry, you’re always right; no I’m not angry; forgive me for living.” None of these three responses is good for self-esteem, but they cause fewer problems for others than “fight.”

A “fight” meltdown is an unplanned tantrum; it just happens. the most visible form of being “out of control” means throwing things, breaking things, yelling (with or without obscenities), etc. But it can also look calm on the outside, but it can mean saying hurtful things impulsively, sometimes intentionally, often without meaning to. Like all forms of responses to anxiety, Autistic version or not, the fight response will likely reduce one’s anxiety at the moment. And the response to a fight meltdown is likely more trouble: being fired, excluded from groups, losing relationships and trust. Costs can be high!

Aspie Mouse avoids having his anxiety elevate beyond the good focusing level by treating what other mice consider life-threatening as just playing a game with cats. Ignoring their advice allows him to stay in that high-performing zone. However, it only works for Aspie Mouse because of his Autistic strength of moving unexpectedly while “playing.” One time he lets anxiety go beyond good performance level is on page I-17, as he explains why he’s upset outside the raptors’ cage, but not when he’s directly in danger! Other positive techniques include anything that allows the slower-responding conscious mind time to catch up with the primitive brain’s immediate “reaction” (as it would to touching a hot stove). Examples: meditation; counting to 10; Yoga; closing one’s eyes and bringing forth one’s “wise adult self” to protect one’s “scared child.” If you’ve avoided a meltdown, it’s useful to celebrate that victory, and find a quiet place or sympathetic person to discharge feelings that were held back, as feelings need to go somewhere. Also wise to remember that feelings come, and feelings go; they just are. Rather than getting caught up in them, just feel them while they’re there, and let them move on.

For information about how these Adventures treat anxiety’s more problematic fellow travelers — depression, suicide, panic attacks & personal harm — see Trait #26.

7. Difficulty Identifying Feelings/ Emotions, Then Not Show or Over-express Feelings. Being taught to deny feelings or emotions is widespread. Parents often teach “Boys don’t cry” or “Girls don’t get angry.” As a result, many people in society grow up being confused, because they have these feelings they’ve been told they don’t have. It’s more difficult for those with Autism, because they’re often poor at paying attention to body sensations (trait #24)– including hunger, needing to go to the bathroom, being tired, etc., especially when absorbed in a favored activity. A classic example occurs on Page B-25, when Toe/Hashtag has just rejected Aspie Mouse’s offer of friendship: he’s feeling sad, but unable to label the feeling, wondering instead if he’s hungry.

One grouping of feelings counts just four: fear, anger, sadness and joy. Other words are used to describe different levels, such as annoyed, frustrated, seething, outraged as increasing levels of anger. While shame — and guilt — are sometimes added to these four, others believe that shame is a combination of sadness and fear. “A Course in Miracles” teaches that there are just two emotions: love and fear: this “all or none” choice of love or fear may be simplistic, but useful as a metaphor for where one stands in life: “Do I choose to operate from love (heaven) or fear (hell)?” Yet, while I may choose to come from love, fear will continue to creep in, whether I notice it or not — because feelings just are, they come and they go. The question then is, “Do I give in to the fear or not?” Or “Ouch! I gave in to it this time, but I’m still committed to coming from love, so what’s the lesson for me here?” Throughout this graphic novel, Aspie Mouse comes from love, but does so unaware. On pages C19-22, Brilli, a sociopathic cat, can’t believe Aspie Mouse is as naive — and loving — as his unconscious mutterings prove he is, even while he keeps outwitting Brilli. Clearly, choosing love over fear is one great way to live positively. While I believe most with autistic traits would choose to come from love over fear (and many do), because of their natural empathy for those who, like themselves, struggle to belong. Despite recurring dark thoughts of ingenious ways to torture perceived enemies, the challenge is how to stay aware of both tendencies and yet keep choosing love.

When triggered, my first feeling/ reaction is anxiety, a form of fear (per Trait #6 above). But I’ll come across as angry — not scared — when my brain urges me to have a fight response. I believe that’s because anger is a more acceptable masculine response than fear; women showing sadness is more acceptable, though showing anger may leave one less vulnerable than showing fear. Anger covering up fear often shows up as arrogance — acting smug or condescending to cover up feelings of inferiority and uncertainty. As young children, crying is for frustration/ anger or anxiety/ fear — more often than sadness. As girls become teenagers, they may “mask” their anger or fear as sadness; but female teens with autistic traits will likely find this puzzling. Notice how often adults smile when they say they’re angry: it’s a way to avoid showing anger. No wonder so many people — not just those with Autism — have trouble knowing what they feel!

It’s important to learn what you feel so you can be aware of different feelings or emotions as they come and go, and not let these feelings take over your actions. When you’re aware of what you feel, you make better choices as to what to do in response, including preventing dysregulation and meltdowns. Others will make observations about what feelings they guess they’re seeing in you. Finally, if I’m aware of my own feelings, I can better notice what others might be feeling. If that’s difficult for me, I can ask!

Much misunderstanding can come from “guessing” at what one with autistic traits feels, because generally, there are two ways those with several autistic traits express their feelings — all or none (per Trait #10) — and either way, they’re less trusted for the “truth” of those feelings. Those who over-express feelings or emotions are seen as “drama queens” who are exaggerating their anger, sadness, joy or whatever: “Grow up and stop being such a ‘showman. You’re not on stage!'” Those who don’t express emotions are accused of “Don’t you feel anything? Are you heartless?” when everyone else is crying and they’re not. Yet, if one hooked up a brain monitor or heart monitor, often they’d be gyrating wildly: you may feel so much you can’t express it, you’re “frozen.”

What’s positive about not knowing what I feel? I may get a lot done by ignoring signals from my body that tell me it’s time to rest, or back off, or eat, etc. As I get older, if I ignore the reality that death is nearer — by not feeling anxious about my body’s deterioration — I can keep up with all the promises I’ve made to others. Thus, a common response to overwhelm (subset of anxiety) by those with Autism is: the more I remain a human doing vs. a human being, the less I’ll have to feel my feelings — and maybe make some needed changes. Aspie Mouse, by ignoring feelings that might have him question what he’s doing by playing with cats, or realize he really ought to be in an elevated anxiety situation when he does so, continues to succeed in staying alive playing with cats, thanks to how different his actions are (sometimes clever, sometimes just chance) vs. what the cats expect.

What’s positive about over-exaggerating one’s feelings? It could get positive attention, especially if one is a motivational speaker or actor who impresses audiences by showing such strong emotion. It could help a singer or painter or writer who doesn’t feel embarrassed exposing their deepest feelings to strangers in their creative works. It might get an IEP (Individualized Educational Plan for Special Education) easily approved for a kid who rolls themself up in a rug or has outbursts in class, whereas the kid who causes no trouble but isn’t learning anything doesn’t get needed services without a parent’s constant complaints.

What’s positive about not showing one’s feelings? Freezing is a great way to hide, not be seen, cause no trouble; one may even be seen as “stoic” (look how much pain they can tolerate without crying out). One can continue to daydream in class, pursue special interests without getting a lot of pushback, and even be well-liked as long as not expected to reveal one’s feelings.

Of course, as with every autistic trait that society deems as mostly negative, the best way to be positive while still fully embracing this autistic trait, is to be curious — about your own feelings, what others are feeling, and whether or not your feelings come across as being genuine, that is, trustworthy. Asking for help, especially around “soft skills” like emotions — as opposed to “Would you help me solve this math or engineering problem?” — is not comfortable for those with this autistic trait. But once you’ve learned to take feedback not as a personal criticism, but rather “data” — information — that may be useful to you, you may discover it’s worth the time, and risk of feeling uncomfortable, asking for such feedback.

8. Lack of Social Understanding. If these 27 traits were ordered based on impact on the life of one with Autism, this trait would be #1 or tied with anxiety for #1. If these traits were ordered based on which is most identified with Autism — not other personality types, especially not with Neurotypicals — this trait would be #1. And if these traits were ordered based on which best shows the gradations as where on the Autism Spectrum an individual falls and how functional in the world one is — from mild to moderate to severe/ profound — this trait, lack of social understanding, would be #1. It’s as clear an indicator of having Autism, if less immediately obvious, as sensory sensitivity, flapping, loud or monotone speech, no eye contact, and flat affect or over-exaggerated emotions.

Some misunderstandings are minor, such as not taking the largest piece of pie when a party is for someone else. Others can lead to serious consequences — such as breaking off an engagement to be married, being terminated at work, being considered “stupid,” “uncaring,” “having no empathy,” “can’t be trusted” (ironic, given how honest and trustworthy most with autism are, per trait #15), etc. See those shown in the margins here. Other examples are shown throughout these traits, such as why men are expected to space themselves out at a bank of urinals (trait #4), why my “environmental conscientious insticts” to rinse my hands in anothr man’s shower was a bad idea (traits #4,17), and why “tattling” on a fellow worker is more likely to cause me to lose my job than to get a promotion (trait #27).

By showing characters with Autism missing these signals at times — such as Aspie Mouse never grasping the difference between “taking things literally” and “being literate” — I give the reader practice in recognizing “Oh, hey, he missed that one,” and laughing in recognition that “I do that, too.” Same with certain unexpected behaviors (trait #14) that aren’t harmful, but may violate rules about personal space, manners or other social norms: I hope readers with this autistic trait learn to notice when these incidents occur, and — instead of being bewildered once again about these strange unwritten rules that everyone but you seems to know — learn to avoid these mistakes by taking a few seconds to ask, “Might that person be offended if I did this to them, even if I wouldn’t be offended if they did it to me?”

The negativity for this trait is particularly hard to “overcome” due to the different brain operating system those with multiple autistic traits have: they prefer using logic and ignoring emotion (trait #18). The truth is probably more complicated: those with many autistic traits may also be influenced by emotions more than they realize, but prefer logic because it simplifies a world that is confusing enough. In reality, while all defendants are promised equal treatment in English language legal systems — having the right lawyer, knowing the judge, learning the judge’s mood on a given day, one’s race, how one dresses, how respectfully one addresses the bench, even that trait #1 use of eye contact, can put a thumb on the scale in favor or against a given defendant. Here are four tools to consider to better survive in a Neurotypical world where these unwritten social rules dominate over legal or other written regulations:

1. Keep a written list of these social norms that you missed learning earlier in life.
2. Learn how to take another’s perspective; be curious about another’s point of view
3. Lifesaver Questions, if truly taking another’s point of view seems too hard to do.
4. Say “I’m sorry, I meant no offense.”

(1) Keep a written list of these “social norms that you missed learning earlier in life. Memorize them, and keep adding to the list as needed. If you can, be curious as to why that social norm you broke is different from what the written rules say; what do other(s) think about it?

(2) Take another’s perspective/ be curious as to their point of view. While I can’t “make you” feel unsafe (trait #5); if you are triggered by what I said it’s about you, not me (but don’t expect the other person to accept that answer, though clinically proven). It’s good to know that for my own self-esteem. However, if this is a relationshipI want to keep, it’s likely best to first say “I’m sorry” after a misunderstanding, even if you’re not sure what you’re sorry about (tool #4); but then be curious about what happened that made you feel unsafe. Was it something I said? How I said it? Something I did? What’s going on for you? Maybe you’re triggered by my (unexpected, trait #14) behavior. Usually those with this autistic trait aren’t trying to upset others — but if other(s) get upset, they may respond (return to feeling safe) by moving away from me, yelling at me, or denying me work or a relationship.

What fixes this best: learn to take another’s point of view! I’ve likely broken some (unknown to me) social norm and when the other person reacts negatively, my anxiety goes up (trait #6), which I may not even notice (trait #7); if I assume I’m right and the other person’s wrong (trait #10), it won’t end well, as neither party trusts the other. So ask why they feel that way, even if you’d rather be curious about ideas or things than what goes on in other people’s heads. It’s all a result of the difference between intent and impact (trait #17)! Regardless of my intent, what I did had an impact on you. Thus, if I want to stay in relationship with you, I’m better off “making up” to you in some way (again, tool #4). No need to feel shame. I did nothing “wrong,” If I do feel shame, remember that good shame or guilt means “I made a mistake.” Toxic shame is when instead I say “I AM a mistake.” The problem is, taking another’s point of view is perhaps the most difficult ask of anyone with many autistic traits; it’s just not part of the wiring of those with this alternate operating system.

The standoff between Aspie Mouse and the homeowner Professor at the end of Chapters A & H happens because Aspie Mouse isn’t seeing things from the Professor’s point of view. But common reactions to suggesting taking another’s point of view are, “It’s a waste of time.” “I don’t care what others think.” “It’s too hard to understand what Neurotypical social rules are” and “I already know what they think: they’re pure evil and trying to get rid of me.” Key reason to appreciate another’s point of view, even if you don’t “feel like doing so,” is that it shows empathy. Those with autistic traits who “freeze” when they don’t know what they feel, or feel something but are afraid to show it, are often accused of “not caring,” (lacking empathy). Often it’s not true. The one with this autistic trait may either: be so overwhelmed with feeling empathy; or on the other hand, not know what they feel (as happened to me at the first funeral I ever attended, and the most intense I have to this day: a 16-year old boy I knew from Boy Scouts had died doing something foolish, and the funeral home was filled with sobbing teenage girls, per trait #7) that shutting down (freezing) is one’s only response, despite stomach-churning feelings. That’s why even if tears don’t flow when you’re sad, if you ask another what they’re feeling, or just state that you care (even if you don’t know what you feel), it can deflect unfair accusations such as, “Don’t you feel anything?”

Positive Already: Sensitivity — even child-like wonder — is often an asset for writers, artists and musicians — think Mozart as depicted in “Amadeus,” or Greta Thunberg sailing from Europe at age 16 to scold world leaders at the UN for their “empty words” about fighting climate change. Being unwilling to accept the way things are as an adult is another form of sensitivity — children are outraged by adults saying one thing and doing another, but most just accept things as they are and go along to get along by Middle or High School. Example in this work: Bobby ignores his mother’s shooshing to defend his “pet mouse.” Once Self-aware, Self-accepting: This could be seen as one of the “already mostly positive traits” (#9-16), except for society’s pushback against those who insist others do what they say they do.. Do not lose that child-like sensitivity in how you view the world! However, it’s important to channel it in ways that gets buy-in by those who’ve lost this ability to see things the way your eyes do. That means finding tools to prevent outrage from turning into a dysregulated meltdown. Show the passion (for many, passion doesn’t show through speech, but through writing, art, science, music, etc.) without being dismissed as a “nut case” due to having such an easily dysregulated hair trigger.

10. All or None Thinking or Behavior. All or none, black or white, either/ or, good or evil, right or wrong. It’s a way of thinking that helps one feel safe, and less anxious, especially when faced with uncertainty or confusion. It can be used as a fight response to feeling anxious. And like responding to anxiety, giving a “certainty” response helps one feel safer, by turning uncertain situations into ones you judge are one way or the other. Also like anxiety, either/or thinking is widespread in society; yet affects those with Autism more deeply. When challenged with an opposite opinion or even a suggestion to consider a middle ground (to live in the gray, which is sensible), one’s safety is threatened. To avoid dysregulation and meltdowns, those with the Autistic version of this trait shut down, preventing learning, growing, compromise, and considering other possibilities, which is how interacting with real people works. One scary aspect of AI is that an AI “friend” never pushes back with different opinions, which isn’t healthy for forming relationships with real people.

The inability/ unwillingness to step into another’s shoes leads to taking criticism personally (not good, though understandable), and being quick to judge others vs. “witnessing,” withholding judgment, and “being curious.” The less social understanding (Trait #8) one with ASD has, the more difficult (impossible?) it is to learn “active listening,” a personal growth program staple — key to showing empathy (see “feeling safe” discussion after Trait #8). Stubborn behavior does occur for non-Autistic characters in the comic panel chapters of this work — such as Mrs. Castelluzo (Ch’s. C-G, though she can be persuaded at times), the Exterminator (Ch. C,G) and the bully rat (Ch. H). Aspie Mouse rarely changes his opinion about anything — though he finally realizes a dog is not a “barking cat” (Ch. E). Good example of a character with Autism changing an opinion is DeeDee (Ch. E), who changes her shy, quiet,”freeze” persona after witnessing how her therapy dog finds happiness from a non-family source.

All-or-none behaviors are as common as all-or-none thinking for with those with Autism: usually, one is either very expressive or very quiet with words; asks a lot of questions or hardly ever asks any; loves being the center of attention or avoids the spotlight at all costs. Either way, the cost is lack of trust by others. Those who are very expressive take over conversations, are resented for overwhelming others, and aren’t trusted because they seem to ignore others’ want for attention and airtime. By contrast, the quiet ones who speak in a hushed monotone and have no facial expression aren’t trusted because they rarely contribute in groups and don’t show emotion when every’one’un else does.

What are possible positives of either/or thinking? It lowers anxiety. It allows the illusion of certainty in an uncertain world. It helps us as rule-followers (Trait #14): if there aren’t rules, we’ll invent them; if we don’t understand them, we’ll follow the words literally. We’re great problem-solvers (Trait #9), as long as the variables are made clear; we love multiple choice questions. On the other hand, we’re not great decision-makers: too many variables and we hate closing off options. Another plus: we can join with others who believe as we do, and at least there, believe “we fit in.”

As with other traits that limit one’s life, the most positive solution is to risk adding some “both-and” to one’s “either-or” world. If you can collaborate some, you’ll be seen as flexible vs. rigid; cooperative, not stubborn; someone who values getting things done over refusing to budge on principle. Even if you still aren’t ready to do that, at least you should consider understanding how costly being “all or none” is when you are trying to get along with Neurotypicals. It’s seen as “childish” behavior — and certainly not just something those Neurodivergent do. Even if you gain more “flexible” thinking, It’s still probably a good idea to avoid team projects requiring working together with Neurotypicals all the time, and being closely supervised (especially by a Neurotypical boss). Instead, seek jobs with more “agency,” where collaboration means you can do your part alone — where results matter more than “style” or getting along great with your colleagues — then get together with others briefly to fit the parts together. See Trait #12, the part about working independently, and Trait #27, keeping jobs, etc. Aspie Mouse is mostly a black or white thinker, but if any’un is open to playing — even if his experience with that “type” hasn’t been positive — he’ll give it a go: no cat is ever willing to be “it” in tag (they always chase him!) until KK in Ch. F comes along.

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Before moving on to how Aspie Mouse and other characters with autistic traits show key autistic strengths (traits 11-16) and handle autistic challenges (traits 17-27), let’s review how these characters use core traits 5-10 to stay calm and present (limit dysregulation/ meltdowns per trait #21), be more positive about themselves, and learn to pay attention to others’ points of view — all while being themselves.

Check if next 2 paragraphs overly duplicate Trait #6, etc. above.

Staying calm and present for Aspie Mouse means keeping his anxiety within the “getting focused” stage, which he does by ignoring most outside suggestions, such as that he stop playing with cats as it’s too dangerous, or that he stop playing so much and get more “serious.” Those on the spectrum are slow to mature. By letting him gain confidence now by playing (even with cats!), Aspie Mouse is gaining confidence in his abilities that should serve him well once he decides it’s time to live more fully. You might say he’s not really “present,” and you’d have a point. But “forcing” him to face the harshest of realities is likely to dysregulate him (as happens once in Ch. I, when he realizes birds of prey are feeding on mice), and then he’ll be of no use to any’un, especially himself.

How characters with Autism in this graphic novel, especially Aspie Mouse, usually avoid negative self-talk, and instead stay positive, both by using their natural strengths, and in facing their Autistic challenges, is shown by examples in the next 19 traits. The key is the same as for staying calm and present: “I’m proud of having Autism, because I can do what others cannot; If I pay a little more attention to what others need from me, I can succeed while still being myself.”

Traits #11-16: Making Use of Autistic Traits Generally Viewed as Positive

The next eight traits are the key strengths of those who have Autism, the traits that justify the expression, “Autism is my super-power!” Because it’s a positive way of looking at what the psychiatric profession insists on calling “disorders,” its’s an expression I encourage. While intuitive people who don’t have Autism may also have more than one of these strengths, those who have Autism usually use these positive traits in a way that’s more intense or more thorough than others. I’m adding a “caution” paragraph for each of these traits, because a good thing can turn not so good if it’s over-done.

11. Pattern-seeking; Solving Problems in Unique Ways: Pattern recognition is key to how humans solve problems. Those with this Autistic trait recognize patterns easily, and — unless hampered by a learning disability — often score high on intelligence tests. However, their “Autistic super-power” lies more in the way they see patterns that others miss while trying to solve a problem. They invent new connections: (1) They look to put new information into already created “boxes;” (2) They see patterns connecting things, ideas or even people that just don’t occur to others. Because of black-or-white thinking (Trait #6), putting things in “boxes” helps make the world (whose social rules they don’t understand) seem more predictable. The irony: to “feel safe,” they stretch what fits in one of their boxes so much that the result is literally thinking outside the box, or “thought mutations.” Like biological mutations, most of these far-afield patterns are dead-ends with no practical or aesthetic benefit. But every so often, an Autistic “thought mutation” proves successful. This is how inventors, scientists, artists, musicians, writers, etc. with Autistic traits create original breakthroughs, even if all they wanted to do was solve a problem to make them feel safer or better: Thomas Edison inventing the light bulb; Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution; Mozart’s original chords and variations that still astonish 250+ years later; Einstein’s General and Special Theories of Relativity.

Some believe that if no one had Autism, we’d still be shouting at each other in caves! In his book “Sapiens,” (see references), Yuval Harari says imagination is what allowed Homo Sapiens to outlast and dominate other humanoids. Human imagination — picturing things that don’t yet exist, and eventually create them — led to all we take for granted: refrigeration, indoor plumbing, government, money, etc. The Myers-Briggs personality test says only 25% of people are “intuitive” (especially imaginative) vs. “sensate” (live in concrete reality); the world sure needs both types to function (you want a “sensate” surgeon and an “intuitive” psychiatrist). but the best inventors, scientists, artists — and even CEO’s — are overwhelmingly “intuitive;” for many, it’s because they have the Autistic trait of solving problems by finding patterns others don’t see.

Caution: Because of black-or-white thinking and a desire to reduce uncertainty as quickly as possible to feel safe, those with Autism are all-too-eager to put people in boxes (stereotyping) based on race, ethnicity, gender and other readily noticeable features. This leads to being accused of racism, sexism and other forms of discrimination. Two suggestions: (a) keep thoughts about wanting to put someone in a “box” to oneself, (2) develop a practice of being a witness, not a judge, especially when observing people; most people hate being put in categories (even if you’re OK being called Autistic, though that’s one aspect of you, not all of who you are).

In this work, Aspie Mouse frequently finds new ways to use familiar objects, such as marbles and mirrors to thwart pursuers. He sees patterns others don’t. During his “schooling” at the Mouse MIT in Chapter B, he: reconstructs a complex language translation program (p. B-7); develops a more realistic fishing pole (B14-15); uses a “mousetrap fishing pole” to snag “bait” (B16), lunch (B18-19) and later, outwit a determined exterminator (D-22-23). He’s able to foresee “what if…” (like a chess player thinking three moves ahead) in challenging a Rat Bully in Chapter H. This isn’t the pattern recognition intelligence IQ tests measure with multiple choice questions, but an ability to create — even invent — patterns not previously considered, using imagination. Yet Aspie Mouse’s ability to survive depends on staying within the “excitement” phase of anxiety (trait #5). By putting all of his attention on inventing the solution to the next problem, he doesn’t leave space or time for dysregulation to take over.

10. Special Interests: Malcolm Gladwell’s belief that it takes 10,000 hours to truly master any skill (see references) may or may not be true. What is true is that someone with this Autistic trait, who invests many hours obsessed with the details of some special interest, is likely to become an expert in that area. If the primary activity is playing computer games, however, a career is more likely to come from a second special interest, that’s less popular, such as weather forecasting, solving traffic flow issues, collecting 20th Century cigar bands, sports trivia. What Temple Grandin (famous Autistic professor) advises job seekers to do is create a portfolio of one’s work, because even articulate speakers with Autism are often too “honest” to interview well. Let the portfolio speak for itself!

Caution: Having a special interest that so totally absorbs you that you become excellent at it has a key downside: you ignore other life responsibilities, such as homework, paying bills, changing clothes, taking baths, doctor visits, etc., and ignore key body signals (trait #3) that signal needs such as hunger, thirst, sleep, going to the bathroom, and medical issues. Famous story: a graduate student, finding Albert Einstein on the steps of the Princeton Union, asked if he’d look at a problem that had stumped a group of grad students for two weeks; Einstein agreed, studied it intensely for six minutes, and solved it! As the astonished, grateful student started to leave, Einstein said, “Wait a minute! When you met me, was I going into this building or coming out of this building?” “You were going out of it,” he answered. “Oh good,” said Einstein, “Then I’ve had lunch!” Body unawareness at its worst!

The key special interest in these adventures is, of course, Aspie Mouse’s love of playing with cats (and animals he thinks are cats). I expect pushback by caregivers for two reasons: (1) you believe I’m inviting young people to engage in dangerous behavior; (2) you believe I’m encouraging young people to “play” rather than to find productive work interests. No to both! First, no character encourages Aspie Mouse to play with cats: two female mice (Toe/Hashtag, Ch. B,G, and #83, Ch. C-E) see it as a death wish, and pull away from him. I discourage real youth dangers: drugs, alcohol, smoking (see page C-27), screen addiction (rare recreational use), and bullying (see pages H8-13). Second, I encourage young people with Autism to be true to themselves. Aspie Mouse doesn’t need money to get his physical needs met (food, clothing, shelter); play IS his primary purpose. By dismissing the danger, he keeps himself in the “productive” zone of anxiety; thus strangely, he IS paying attention to his body. In Chapter E, he shows characters who’ve forgotten the positive benefits of play (“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” as the saying goes) how to have happier, more engaged lives. His brother’s ill health (pages G6-11) was likely caused by overwork, lack of balance. Note Aspie Mouse’s other special interests, such as computer wizardry and solving real-world problems, that serve him well when he does need to work (see Ch. B at the Mouse MIT).

11. Independent Thinkers & 12. Work well independently: These two traits might be combined into one, but they call upon different mental resources, so someone could have one and not the other. Both refer to those who have either or both trait(s) of “not going along with the crowd,” but in different ways. Thinking independently means my beliefs may be different from what my parents believe and from what my peers believe. Because I don’t see things the way others do, my views are shaped as much by my internal thoughts and how those thoughts alter information I take in as by what I’m taught. For example, the way I solve problems, the boxes I create and then stretch to fill, and the patterns I come up with to stay with my boxes, end up being unique (trait #9). Those with Autism are among the least likely to lose their jobs due to Artificial Intelligence (AI), because their original solutions can’t just be duplicated: AI works presents variations on what’s known, not what hasn’t been conceived yet.

On the other hand, working well independently means I work best by myself, not while in the presence of others. This author hated learning via committee work in elementary school, and couldn’t imagine studying for a test in a group — I need to be by myself to collect my thoughts, memorize something, solve problems, etc. Studies have found that the more control people have over how they do their job, the happier they are; for most with Autism, it’s vital to be judged on results, rather than how they got them. Ideal jobs for those on the Autism Spectrum include taxi driver, outside in-person and remote phone sales, truck driver, night watchman, etc. Making in-person sales calls, as I did as a college textbook rep worked fine, because customers aren’t bosses looking over my shoulder, and besides, college professors are often Neurodivergent themselves or being teachers, tolerate Neurodivergence in others as long as I provide knowledgeable service, as I did. These days, however, GPS and other monitoring systems reduce employee freedom; it’s why I didn’t mention Uber/ Lyft driver as good for independence; “big brother” constantly watching me won’t get best results!

Working collaboratively on a project can also work, as when I was an acquisitions editor: I would do my part (getting reviews), the author would do theirs (writing chapters), and then we’d get together to “collaborate” on where we were, and then go back to finish our individual parts. Collaboration implies work among equals: one isn’t the “boss” of the other. Unlike collaboration, team work implies working together, usually in one place — can be in an office, a construction site, a restaurant, a hospital wing, etc. Those with Autism rarely do well in a team environment. Unfortunately, employers are increasingly seeking “good team players,” and making skills less important than they were 50 years ago; as a result, schools have reacted by teaching more in group settings, which may be called “collaboration,” but is really team work. In “Been There, Done That…,” (again, see reference), Tony Attwood says small group situations (team work!) rarely work well for those with Autism, because to feel safe, they either try to take over the group or disengage from it. When Aspie Mouse comes up quickly with innovative solutions in the presence of others, he’s basically taken the group or team over and acted individually (at Mouse MIT in Ch. B; against the bully rat in Ch. H).

Caution: Everyone who works better independently — especially if working “solo” to further a special interest, perhaps as an entrepreneur, needs to have a plan in place listing measurable steps and results, and to stop and get feedback from others you trust at times as to how you’re doing. Otherwise, you’re likely to miss a fatal flaw that, if caught earlier, might have saved a lot of wasted effort, or even prevent project failure. Traits 9 & 10 already handle the caution for independent thinking — taking all-or-none positions. Add to that the independent working caution: one needs regular feedback.

13. Self-entertaining: While many with Autistic traits feel lonely much of their lives — and would appreciate more in-person company than they get — the urge to isolate and spend more time on one’s phone, computer, reading books, etc. is quite strong. During the COVID lockdown, those with this Autistic trait fared better than most. Even without outside stimuli, the brains of those with this trait are able to concoct fantasy worlds, inventions, etc. Keeping busy with solo activities, such as practicing piano, writing a book, composing music, creating a work of art, etc. can lead to overwhelm. That in itself can keep someone from facing when they’re lonely. Aspie Mouse makes it clear he prefers living alone — no other mice — socializing with cats and people more, and on his own terms (see pp. C13-14, D1).

Caution: While those with this trait are often happy being alone most of the time, they often find themselves lonelier than they’d prefer. Sometimes they simply can’t find a good friend until graduate school or ever. By not cultivating friendships when younger, and staying in touch with them over time, they may suffer later in life. Current psychological theory says the happiest people are those with the most active social connections; and those happy people usually live longer.

14. Unexpected Behavior (vs. Unacceptable): A major source of friction between Neurodivergent and Neurotypical cultures is misunderstanding the difference between Autistic behaviors that are unexpected from those which are unacceptable (traits #8,14,21). What’s unacceptable? Hitting, biting, bullying, stealing, lying, purposely spilling ink on someone’s clothes, etc. Everyone over the age of seven, including those with ASD, know that these are wrong. However, not understanding many social norms (trait #8), those with autistic tendencies behave in ways that may bother others without intending to cause trouble. These unexpected behaviors aren’t illegal or immoral, but they can still get me in trouble (trait #17, unaware of the impact of one’s behavior on others). If I want to maintain the relationship I impacted, I may change my behaviors even though I did nothing “wrong.” For example, I rinsed my hands in another man’s shower at the Y to “save water” — noble environmentally, but invading another’s personal space is a social no-no. Aspie Mouse and friends with Autism frequently violate social norms, often with comic results in their made-up world. Sometimes the best response is an “Oops, Sorry!” If it’s someone you’re close to, then you may admit you didn’t understand the social norm you violated, and will add it to your “Neurotypical Social Rules to Remember” list (because these rules make no sense to you, but seem to really matter for others).

15. Rule Follower, Honesty, Innocence, Naivete: If someone not only follows the posted or official rules to the letter, but also insists everyone else do so as well, they have an Autistic trait. They follow the rules because it makes them feel safer in a world where the unwritten social “rules” — some of which directly contradict the written ones — make no sense (trait #8). And like honesty (trait #15 below), the belief is “If I’m going to follow the rules, everyone else should, too. The kid who covers his test paper so others can’t see what answer is being given, and the kid who wants the police to arrest the school bully instead of “working things out,” is the rule-follower. What works better is to write down the unwritten social rules and commit them to memory; you don’t need to understand why people do what they do instead of what they say, you just need to know that’s the way it is. Aspie Mouse often gets upset when the cats he believes he’s playing with “don’t take turns” — that is, allow him to chase them (see page D16 top).

Caution: Rule-followers can get fired for upsetting other employees by tattling on them or insisting on doing just what the rule says, not what has become common practice.

: Those with this Autistic trait are slow to understand when “honesty is NOT the best policy.” As with rule-following (trait #14) and not understanding social norms (trait #8), it’s easier to be honest than to figure out when it’s socially acceptable to “lie” so as not to hurt someone else’s feelings. The “innocence” and “naivete” come about for the same reason: Those with this Autistic trait have to assume others are being honest with them, because they can’t “read” when others might be lying, nor understand when it might be a good idea socially to either withhold the truth or tell a “white lie” to not hurt someone else’s feelings. After all, if that other one said the same to me, it wouldn’t hurt my feelings! I was reprimanded at a conference for “badgering” Temple Grandin about not being interested in having a partner; when I tried to apologize, she shook me off — having Autism, she didn’t care; she knew where she stood. The Neurotypical volunteers felt bad hearing my comments, and projected that she’d be offended and not come back!

A key advantage of being routinely honest is that one is believed. Bobby’s mother reluctantly realizes Bobby is being truthful about not smoking after he exposes his mom’s smoking (pp. C26-27). On the other hand, when Aspie Mouse keeps besting Brilli the cat, Brilli can’t believe the same mouse can keep defeating her, and yet be so innocent in his thinking (page C19-20). On the other hand, someone who can’t be “bought” can bring a powerful message, such as when 16-year-old Greta Thunberg sailed to the United Nations (to not use jet fuel) and inspired the world by saying to world leaders, “Enough with all your empty words!”

Caution: Being too honest to be believed is a problem. It can get one excluded from jury duty, fired by employers as with rule-followers, and be perceived as an unreliable witness.

16. Loves Routine/ Dislikes Change/ Loyal: Since most employers today say they value “flexibility” and “being proactive” as highly as they value “teamwork,” why do I list this as a positive trait? It’s because proactive workers jump ship as soon as they see a better opportunity or learn that the company they’re working for may be a sinking ship. Whereas once some’un with this Autistic trait settles into a routine, they generally will remain loyal to wherever they are. As with honesty (prior trait #15), an employer of the worker with this Autistic trait seldom has to worry about the worker stealing, “cooking the books,” padding their hours, etc. They’ll usually work longer, harder and more conscientiously than others. When given a problem to solve, they’ll forget about lunch, quitting time, etc. This isn’t always good for the employee with Autism, who may get “laid off” with no warning if the company fails. Aspie Mouse shows loyalty to his new home’s owner in Chapters A & H, even when he can’t play with the cat, with no assurance the cat won’t kill him! If I were in combat in a foxhole, I’d sure rather have a soldier with Autism at my back (unless the loud noises of weapons paralyzed him) than a proactive soldier who’d abandon me to save his own skin.

Caution: A fast-paced work situation where change is constant and what you did yesterday may not be what you do tomorrow — or when mergers occur and jobs change radically, even where they’re located — are generally to be avoided. However, for some reason, high tech companies are usually like that, yet Autistic personalities often thrive, even dominating some worker categories. Go figure!

Traits 17-27: What’s Positive About Autistic Traits Usually Viewed Negatively

17. Unaware of Impact of Actions on Others: Directly derived from trait #8, lack of social understanding. I do something “unexpected,” which creates lack of trust, trait #14. See my own example in the Prologue paragraph right after Disclaimers/ Caveats above. Aspie Mouse certainly creates many problems for cats by his ability to escape their attempts to catch him. And he didn’t consider the impact of separating Deedee’s therapy dog from her in Ch. E, though it worked out OK. For those who dominate conversations, we don’t pay attention to (or even notice) body language indicating boredom, such as eye rolling, turning away, pulling out one’s cellphone (trait #3) — flight responses by Neurotypicals.

Already positive: It can keep anxiety to a performance-enhancing focus level, at least until one gets negative feedback. This is why jobs that emphasize results, vs. how you got them, are so valuable (as per trait #12): bosses are happier if they don’t know you got the results “unexpectedly.” Positive Once Self-aware, Self-accepting: Write down unwritten rules and memorize them. Learn to be curious as to others’ point of view, even if it’s just the “last resort” question at the end of the safety section after trait #8, “What made you feel unsafe about what I did?” Don’t take the answer personally — it’s about what triggers them, not what you did. Just learn from it.

18. More logical than emotional: It’s safer and more predictable for those with this Autistic trait to prefer logic to emotions, like Mr. Spock of Star Trek. It’s also what’s assumed is correct behavior by “an ordinary reasonable prudent man” in the laws of the U.S. in particular — picking and instructing juries, what’s criminal behavior, what’s expected of citizens, etc. The problem is that ignoring emotions ignores is that emotions cause almost all actual behavior — both my own and any’un I’m dealing with — which makes the logical me repeatedly disappointed in people’s actual behavior. Then we get in trouble pointing out that another’s behavior isn’t “logical.” We debate some’un or ask a question without considering how it might land emotionally. What helps, as just mentioned in Trait #17, is not to take others’ comments personally. Hashtag/Toe insults Aspie Mouse as a “typical male mouse” on page B-11, then grudgingly admits he’s “smart … for a male” — until finally admitting she’d assumed Aspie Mouse would be like her brothers. Aspie Mouse just shrugs it off.

During Q&A at an Autism Conference keynote address, I asked Temple Grandin why she hadn’t sought an intimate relationship (naively figuring if I could marry, anyone could), and she kept saying it wasn’t worth her effot. Later, two Conference volunteers confronted me, “Why are you ‘badgering’ our friend Temple? — fearing she’d be insulted and not come back. When she did, three years later, I went to apologize and she waved me off — hadn’t bothered her; she knew where she stood. I then realized the volunteers, Neurotypicals, were offended as if I’d questioned them, but not Temple. Like Hashtag/Toe with Aspie Mouse in Chapter B, we were just having an unemotional Autistic discussion.

Already positive: As per trait #17, ignoring feelings allows one to stay in the performance-enhancing zone of anxiety; then, when confronted with real danger, having a “step 1, step 2 attitude is most helpful. Also, there are jobs (including high tech where many with Autism are employed) where logic is necessary. Positive Once Self-aware, Self-accepting: Become aware of one’s own feelings, and be willing to ask others what they are feeling. Be prepared to apologize, even if you don’t relate to another’s feelings.

19. Emotionally Delayed: Whatever your “Neurodivergent diagnosis” might be, if your emotional age is 2/3rds to 3/4ths of your chronological age, you have a trait commonly found in any’un who has Level 1 (formerly Asperger’s) or more severe Autism. Disadvantages are obvious: you are out of phase with your peers in terms of focusing on college and career; taking on adult responsiblities such as driving, buying a house or developing an intimate relationship for mutual support and building a family. Early in Chapter B, Aspie Mouse is still trying to suck his mother’s milk while his littermates are starting families of their own — and gets kicked out of the house as a result. Allowing my emotions — primarily anger, such as at an uncooperative copy machine — to get the best of me ended up costing me three jobs in my life.

So what’s positive about one’s emotions being slower to develop than one’s peers? Already positive: If I can slow life down and concentrate on building up my special interests and problem-solving skills in less pressured situations, I can enter a job search better prepared than those who feel compelled to graduate college in four years and start being serious about both career and relationships (though a delayed adolescence continues to occur for many in our society, not just those Neurodivergent. Positive Once Self-aware, Self-accepting: Using one’s delayed maturity to gain social skills can only help to be better prepared for both career and long-term relationships. Temple Grandin recommends all job applicants bring a portfolio of what one’s done in related special interests to any job interview. Learning skills to lower anxiety can prevent the meltdowns or prolonged daydreaming that lead to a high rate of job turnover for those on the Autism Spectrum. Calm people “work and play well with others” much better than those prone to “flying off the handle.”

This is as good a place as any for me to counter parent, teacher or other caregiver concern that by supporting Aspie Mouse’s love of “play,” I am encouraging those with Autistic behaviors to spend all their time playing computer games, rather than growing up and accepting adult responsibilities. No I’m not! I am encouraging any’un to do what they’re ready to do, and learn to do it well, instead of rushing into what isn’t serving them. I say Aspie Mouse’s brother D2 (Ch. G, pp. 6-11) grew up too fast, got too greedy for power, and his now-failing health shows how he’s paying for doing so. Aspie Mouse is learning many skills as he survives his “play” with cats, with how that play keeps his anxiety in the performance-enhancing zone. He’s a young adult mouse. He has time to get more serious. This Author got married way late, and by waiting, has a solid relationship unlikely to end in divorce.

20. Low Self-Esteem: Attwood’s “Been There, Done That…” ranks this as the second most universal concern for those with Autism, after Anxiety. Why did I put it here, instead of with Core Traits 5-8? I believe it’s due to getting pushback from every’un from an early age. Some’un with Autism living in an Autism-dominated society would likely be praised for the same behaviors that annoy Neurotypicals as unexpected, or even inappropriate. However, such a society wouldn’t last long: we’re a social species that needs a majority whose executive function doesn’t easily clog up, and works together to keep society functioning smoothly — with just a few who create the breakthroughs in science, politics and the arts that have gotten us spaceships, awesome music and art, and keeping wisdom accessible to future generations. My self-esteem, already poor, was battered more after foolishly taking a Neurotypical job after college — casualty insurance underwriter — getting fired twice in 2-1/2 years due to making comments that violated social norms (trait #8); while 80% of my Yale classmates were getting advanced degrees in law, medicine and academia, I felt hopeless: how’d I ever have a career, partner, or house if I couldn’t survive as a low-level management trainee? As my mother (ADD & “level 1” Autism) said, “I can do creative things, but even if I had 40 hours in a day, I couldn’t do ordinary things like housekeeping, bookkeeping, etc.” Most characters with Autistic traits in this work keep their self-worth high enough to keep their anxiwty low enough to avoid dysregulation. Three exceptions: Toe/Hashtag’s 2 brothers Tic and Tac in Chapter B, and the depressed Flat-headed Cat in Ch. I, pp. 13-16.

Positive Already: There is nothing positive about having low self-esteem! Positive Once Self-aware: Once I am aware that I have Autistic traits, and therefore should reframe and refocus my life accordingly. I should seek an Autism-friendly career: I was fantastically successful in college textbook publishing, my next job after insurance, earning bonuses larger than my salary and winning awards both as sales rep and acquisitions editor. I still didn’t know I had Autism, but I loved words, and I thought I’d less likely insult a college professor I’d only talk to twice a year! Positive Once Self-accepting: Once I finally accept that I’m OK just as I am, Autism and all — self-accepting, self-forgiving, self-compassionate and self-loving; which takes time and support from others, but is well-worth doing — I can change my negative self-talk into positive self-talk; know that just by being who I am is precious and valuable, separate from my behaviors or thoughts. I can stop holding onto those negative low self-esteem tapes in my head. A key idea in many self-help programs is that “I make up my thoughts (based on events and feelings, both of which “just are.”) Since we made up ‘I’m not worthy,’ we can learn to make up a more positive — and useful — message, ‘Yes, I AM worthy!'” Self-confidence works wonders in avoiding meltdowns! Look at how Aspie Mouse does it, as does Toe/Hashtag. For KK, it’s harder, also for Bobby and Deedee, the two human children with Autism, but all of them make progress in realizing building positive self-esteem is their job #1. Once that’s in place, all sorts of good things will follow.

22.

23. Trouble with names, faces, body language: When some’un has trouble recognizing faces — as Aspie Mouse does in identifying different mice (despite letters on their chest that identify different mice in mouse language, translated for readers), such as #83 in Ch’s. C-E, and even his sister E-flat in Ch’s. B & I — that ‘un definitely has this autistic trait at a high level. Face-blindness may result from a traumatic brain injury, or just part of ‘un’s brain wiring. That level of non-recognition is rather rare, but it adds to mistrust (already usually an issue) and vulnerability — it’s easy to take advantage of those with this issue, much like one can take advantage of someone with dementia. Those who can’t recognize faces almost certainly also don’t notice body language, including eye-rolling to indicate impatience or “what you just did is so not OK,” or folding one’s arms and/or legs to indicate “I’m not open to hearing you,” or leaning forward in one’s chair (“I’m interested in what you’re saying”) or leaning backwards (“I’m not…”). This difficulty is more common than face-blindness, and another example of not understanding social rules and cues (trait #8); one need not have an autism diagnosis to have the autistic trait of difficulty reading body language — not helped by not looking at the other person directly (trait #1). Any’un with this trait has trouble grasping “irony” as a form of humor, both because the ‘un with Autism takes everything at face value, and because the teller of the ironic comment usually shows it as ironic through facial expression. It’s why Aspie Mouse doesn’t realize Headmouster Phil is being ironic on page B-8 top.

Trouble remembering names is even more widespread, such that it may apply to a lot of folks with no other Autistic trait. The reason I believe it’s still an Autistic trait is that it indicates a lack of interest in getting to know someone. Also, one’s name has no obvious relationship with what one looks like. As I get older, I find it increasingly difficult to remember someone’s name, even though I can remember what he or she looks like and even in what context. I will go back through old emails to situations where I remember that person being, and when I find the name, I say, “oh yes, of course.” It’s likely not dementia, because if I had dementia, I wouldn’t remember the context, and moments later, that I was even searching for that person’s name. For Aspie Mouse — because mice “lettering” is how this graphic novel distinguishes mice — his trouble with names is essentially the same as his trouble recognizing faces.

Already positive: These are handicaps in coping with the world; the only positive is one’s brain isn’t usually cluttered with trying to remember social rules while indulging in one’s problem-solving or art or other pursuits. Positive Once Self-aware, Self-accepting: If it’s important to remember names, faces or notice body language, one can learn various tricks to improve one’s memory in these arenas. There are many books written that talk about how to associate names with faces, what specific body language postures mean what, etc. Jerry Lucas (an NBA basketball star from the 1960’s) wrote a book on memory improvement with Lorraine. Their idea was to associate facial features with variations of the name — memory hooks, such as Joe Miller has black curly hair that I’d like to “mill into a wig of joy.” When I studied for tests in college, I’d sometimes memorize names of scientists and a word or two describing what they are famous for by putting them to music — which I still remember decades later.

24. Brain is Disconnected from Body: Hygiene, Feelings and Basic Needs: As I said for trait #4 (body awareness), it’s ironic that being overly sensitive (trait #2,9) doesn’t apply to awareness of the needs of one’s own body — except for what one doesn’t like (certain sounds, lights, clothing or other touches on body, food textures, smells). Poor body awareness is part of poor social understanding (trait #8), along with having an active mind whose thoughts are so “hyper-focused on one’s thoughts, special interests and projects” (see the “caution” for trait #10) that personal grooming expectations of others get ignored or at least postponed. This is putting a low value on personal hygiene, such as baths, showers, and washing, combing and cutting one’s hair. And while many people avoid exercise, those with Autism find all methods too boring for one with so active a mind. A woman I worked with got exasperated with her genius son, who’d be calculating the most efficient angle for jumping into a pool; she would plead, “Just swim, Daniel, just swim!”

Also postponed or ignored are body signals of needs, including hunger, thirst, need for sleep, need to go to the bathroom, and pains that indicate medical attention is needed. This trait is shared with those with ADHD, when they’re in “hyperfocus” mode. Legend has it that a graduate student approached Albert Einstein on the steps of the Princeton Union, asking, “Sorry to bother you, but six of us grad students have been stuck on this math problem for 10 days; would you look at it?” Said Einstein, “Show me the problem.” After really staring at it for a good seven minutes, Einstein said, “Now if you do this, and this, and then this, don’t you get that?” The student was stunned. “Oh yes! Thank you so much!” Then Einstein said, “Wait — before you go — when you met me, was I going into this building or coming out of this building?” The student said he was coming out. “Oh good!” said Einstein, “Then I’ve had lunch!”

Trait #7, difficulty identifying and expressing feelings is another example of the mind of one with autistic traits not wanting to bother with feelings, as they just seem to get in one’s way (they prefer logic, trait #18). While not unique to those with autistic traits, difficulty with feelings makes communicating with Neurotypicals (many of whom are all about feelings) more difficult. It’s also hard to understand what I should do about what I’m feeling. One example, near the end of Ch. B, is when Aspie Mouse confuses an emotion (sadness) with a body sensation (hunger).

Already positive: Like many other socially-related omissions, body disconnection can increase one’s productivity in problem-solving, creating art or music, inventing things, or focusing on any project in general — at least in the short term, unless or until one’s health is jeopardized. Positive Once Self-aware, Self-accepting: Positive Once Self-aware, Self-accepting: Given that ignoring my own safety needs — such as getting enough sleep, exercising, avoiding dangerous neighborhoods, eating healthier — could lead to premature death, along with getting fired, divorced, imprisoned, etc., I’m better off honoring the safety priorities of whoever I’m living with or who cares about me. It helps if I admit I can get so absorbed with thoughts and projects that I forget to take care of myself. Thus, once again, it helps to be curious about others’ needs and thoughts, and not just assume they’re trying to distract you or be a pain for amusement. To become more aware of bodily needs, schedule breaks in one’s day to eat, etc., then set alarms — don’t rely on memory. This is an especially good trait to get support from others to make changes. You are also not likely to know directly that how you dress, how often you bathe, etc. has an impact on others. So get someone you trust to tell you the minimum self-grooming, manners, etc. you need to have or do to stay in others’ good graces. Be willing to admit you are not the best judge of what you should do so your ideas, art, music, inventions, etc. are better received as coming from someone deserving respect. Besides, living longer would mean more time to do what gives one pleasure. Temple Grandin says her first boss told her on her first day, “Get some underarm deodorant and use it!”

25. Extreme Thoughts Intruding on Our Minds: For most of the 20th Century, all it took to be admitted to a Psychiatric Hospital was saying “I hear voices.” Good thing Moses, Jesus, Mohammad and Joseph Smith pre-dated modern psychiatry! Though far fewer are admitted to the remaining “mental hospitals,” the fear of being shunned, homeless and untreated (since in-patients were mostly “freed” in the 1980’s) — and still called “crazy” remains for so many with this Autistic trait. The chattering voices in one’s head can be all-consuming, and many of those thoughts are anti-social to the extreme, including setting fires, mass executions, torture, illegal sex fantasies, physical violence, using nuclear bombs, etc.

We’re not alone in wondering if mentioning these thoughts will lead to carrying any of them out — when we share them, others worry too. When my son was two, he asked his Grandma, “How do I make these voices in my head stop?” I thought it was safe to share thoughts I made clear I’d never act on with a group of men who encouraged confidential sharing, but it wasn’t; I wasn’t allowed back until I got a letter from a therapist declaring me safe. This is the downside of the extraordinary imagination (see trait #9, about this uniquely Homo Sapiens trait per Harari in “Sapiens”): while it led to creating every invention that makes modern life so rewarding, it creates so many ideas that few are ever acted on; those which are don’t usually have much impact (good or bad); and acting on any truly harmful anti-social thought, at least for older children and adults usually requires also having a different personality disorder that overrides one’s natural tendency to avoid bad consequences. We’re more likely to commit “unexpected” behaviors that bother others than “unacceptable” ones, except perhaps in self-defense. In the chapter panels, you’ll see Autistic characters creatively problem-solve from their imagination (Bobby, Ch’s. C-G; Deedee (Ch. E) and Aspie Mouse (everywhere). Dark thoughts are limited to thought balloons.

Already positive: Having an active imagination is generally either benign (not having any impact if not acted upon, and very little if acted upon) or positive. One can have daydreams and fantasies of all kinds (the author has no use for “red light district” materials; imagination is free). Positive Once Self-aware, Self-accepting: The key goal is to accept that most thoughts will never be acted upon; that only a small part of one’s thoughts are disturbing, and they especially should never be acted upon. You are NOT your thoughts, despite certain teachings that say one should only have good thoughts. If you can develop that discipline, great! However, you’re a good, worthwhile person either way. You’re not alone. Learn that comparing your insides (what you feel, judge, think, but don’t express) with others’ outsides (what they choose to show you, vs. what they hide from you) is never a fair comparison! Finding a truly safe place to share your darkest fantasies with others sharing theirs might be a good way to release their hold on you.

26. Depression, Suicidal Thoughts, Self-harm: One key exception to what was just said: you should share — preferably with a trained therapist, but at a minimum with someone you trust even a little — that you have suicidal thoughts (especially if you are developing plans how to do it). At the very least in the U.S., dial 988, 24/7/365 (suicide helpline). It would also be a good idea to get help for depression and self-harm behaviors (like cutting oneself to “relieve stress.” Guess what! None of these is an Autistic trait! All are more serious thoughts, feelings and/or behaviors than anxiety (trait #5), which they likely derive from. Anxiety, as previously noted, is also not an Autistic trait, yet it shows up in just about everyone with Autism, far above its still high rate for the population as a whole. It’s likely that all three, particularly depression, occur at a higher rate among those with Autism than in the general population, even if far less often than anxiety. One likely reason is that depression (sometimes defined as “anger turned inward”) is directly related to low self-esteem (trait #20).

Because tackling any of these conditions requires outside therapeutic assistance, they’re mostly beyond the scope of this graphic novel. Only depression — treated with the same drugs as anxiety, as the body experiences both similarly — is mentioned, by the flat-headed river cat on pp. I.13-16. He’s relieved to have a name for what he’s been feeling. It’s amazing the number of authors, artists, actors, musicians who have been very successful have struggled with depression their whole lives. Maybe the experience of being chronically depressed gives one more successful material to write, paint or sing about, but what great works would those same gifted people create after their depression lifted? This author had a 3-1/2 month depression experience during a period of unemployment: only two positives were (1) more empathy for those who suffer depression their whole lives, as that would be hard to take; (2) a better idea of where the boundary is between seeking enough discomfort to make necessary and profound changes in my life, and not going over the edge into a bottomless pit.

27. Hard to get and keep friends, jobs & relationships: Those with this Autistic trait struggle to connect with other people. They often feel alone/ isolated; have few if any friends for much of their lives; struggle — and even give up — having a successful intimate relationship; often find attending family events to be a chore; and find themselves unemployed much of their lives. Because this graphic novel is geared to younger people with autistic traits, the emphasis here will be on one’s difficulty relating to family and friends — though that childhood difficulty impacts one’s later struggles around finding and keeping partners and jobs..

Psychologists in recent years have identified the #1 predictor of human happiness (and longer life): being well-connected with family, friends and community. No wonder those with Autism have low self-esteem (trait #20 here, #2 in Attwood, “Been there…”)! They don’t form friendships as readily as most children — relying more on parents to set up our “play dates” — even as late as high school (trait #19, emotionally delayed). Reaching out to others doesn’t come naturally. Playing computer games alone at home and playing and conversing anonymously with others online avoids the sting of rejection and bullying that occurs in person — even though bullying and even blackmail online can cause bigger problems overall. If you have one regular friend and then move, you may never to reach out to that friend again. You may make one new friend in your next location, and continue the cycle. You may have a strong need to control what games are played, finding it difficult “taking turns” longer into your teens than others. Also, two’s company, but three is a crowd: if you’re with one good friend, may get jealous, having no interest in adding others, as those with Autism don’t fare well in small groups (per Attwood, “Been there…”).

Other traits that can push possible friends away: being “overly sensitive” (trait #22); throwing tantrums into adolescence and being blunt (“Why does your bedroom smell like urine?”). Suddenly needing privacy in the middle of a playdate (flight response to anxiety, traits #5,12,13) can have a visiting friend feel abandoned. See Aspie Mouse, when reaching out to be a friend to Toe/Hashtag (page B-15), and his confusion when he’s rejected (trait #7, difficulty identifying feelings).

Struggling to connect applies to one’s family, also. Children with Autistic traits stop looking at parents by kindergarten, speak in the middle of another’s conversation, don’t say their emotions (including “I love you”) and are usually reluctant to hug, even if their disconnected body craves touch. As for family functions — especially at someone else’s home (even a favorite grandparent’s) — they have a burning desire to leave the table when done eating to escape to our more imaginary worlds, computer games, etc. (flight response to anxiety, per trait #5) rather than stay and talk. No wonder that when this behavior continues into adulthood, problems ensue with a partner and/or their family, and with employers in work meetings/ working lunches.

Already positive: Avoiding most social situations allows more time to develop one’s special interests. Being aware of one’s discomfort (anxiety) in social situations is being aware of one’s body (traits #5,24), which is good. Positive Once Self-aware, Self-accepting: It’s worth being aware that always “escaping” situations that make one uncomfortable becomes a habit, which is then harder to break. Making an effort to lower one’s anxiety level in family dinners and work meetings to the functional level will lead to others trusting you more in those situations. Desensitization (best supported by a professional therapist) can help: If I can tolerate a little discomfort (elevated anxiety with a powerful urge to leave that dinner or meeting table) for five minutes, then lower my anxiety during those first five minutes by saying (and believing), “I won’t die. I am safe here. I can think relaxing thoughts while appearing present.” Then tolerate 10 minutes, until that anxiety level is reduced to functional level, and keep going. In this graphic novel, Aspie Mouse says many times how much he loves being a home’s “only mouse.” As for handling group situations, in the middle of Ch. H, he escapes his discomfort being with four brown mouse brothers by getting rid of a rat bully through his clever problem-solving — going to his strength.

For an intimate relationship or partnership or marriage — or even dating — to succeed over time requires a combination of skills — some of which are strengths for those with several Autistic traits, and some of which are challenges, especially if one is unaware of their importance. First the natural strengths: Loyalty and love of routine (trait #16): once coupled, the one with Autism can often adjust to the sameness of the day-to-day (though those with ADHD crave novelty, or as Adult Children of Alcoholics says, “We prefer constant upset to workable relationships, as they match our childhood relationships…”.) and is rarely the one who initiates a break-up or has an affair (traits #14,15, rule follower, honest). However, weaknesses include difficulty to communicate about feelings (trait #5,7), or compromise (trait #6, either/or), or take another’s point of view (traits #8,17), or trust oneself or another (trait #21), or to stay calm during a crisis (trait #22, overly sensitive), or to show compassion and empathy — not try to solve another’s problem (traits #9,18, logical, and common for many males in particular, not just those with Autistic traits) — and be fully present and available emotionally (traits #5,8,17,19,24). Another quote I like from the ACoA 12-step programs is “We don’t form relationships; we take hostages.” No wonder Temple Grandin decided having a personal long-term relationship was just too much trouble! Given one’s slower emotional development (trait #19), it makes sense to delay dating, coupling, marriage, etc. until (if ever) ready!

In the chapter panels, Aspie Mouse gets confused when Mouse #83 tries to seduce him (Ch’s. C-G). Then Toe/Hashtag is so concerned about intimacy that she rejects Aspie Mouse’s offer of friendship (p. B24-25). Then there are those weird thoughts from the “committee in my head” (trait #25). Add to that weak peer influence (trait #11) and an ability to self-entertain (trait #13). Thus, it’s not surprising that those with several Autistic traits are more likely to “experiment” with which gender (if either) they are, which gender(s) they’re attracted to, etc. As said earlier in a note for libraries, parents, etc., animal characters in the chapter panels do ask such questions, but know they’re not ready to commit to anything. Don’t do anything drastic (get married, have hormones or surgery) until you’re sure you’re a fully emotionally aware adult! When is that? For a committed partnership, such as marriage, it’s when you can look at the list of “weaknesses” in the previous paragraph and be confident you’re at least aware of what you need to do to minimize bad results from these, and get feedback from your would-be partner on what they see in you and in themself about these concerns. Go slowly, and with a plan.

As for employment, those with several Autism traits are handicapped in two key areas: getting a job, and keeping a job, in spite of having advantages of honesty and loyalty (traits #15,16), plus, if the work is in one of your key special interests (trait #10), good skills. The unemployment rate for those diagnosed with Autism is about 80% (50% for this author in his working years); see ______ in references)! That’s much higher than for other “protected classes,” such as those over 50, or those from certain races or religions, or those with visible physical disabilitis (sight or hearing-impaired, wheelchair-bound). Three key reasons for this: (1) poor connections, no network; (2) comfort level, unexpected behaviors; (3) prejudice. #1, most jobs are filled by word-of-mouth. Few friendships? Reluctant to join a support group for job-seekers (where I, the author, met my wife — and found several jobs)? Unwilling to make job-seeking your full-time job until you get one? While government agencies can help find low-end jobs, they’re rarely helpful for higher paying jobs. You need recommendations from others in your field.

#2, Employers want workers who make their workplace go smoother. It really helps if you’ve done the research to learn how you can solve a problem the company has (avoid what you want except an “opportunity”). However, more important may be, “How well will this prospect ‘fit in’ with the rest of the team?” Listen more than talk; turn past failures into positive learning experiences; be aware of the other’s and your own body language and eye contact. Let a portfolio of your prior work speak for you (per Temple Grandin); have a friend critique your dress and grooming for the interview — also once hired! Learn the unwritten rules of hiring, such as don’t discuss salary or benefits until you have a firm offer. Loyalty and honesty will help retention, but not if offset by disruptions, meltdowns, or other employees being upset by your “unexpected”/ “immature” behaviors (traits #5,8,19,22). Keep asking yourself, “How can I make myself more comfortable to be around?”

#3, Most jobs are “employment at will,” meaning it’s easy to fire anyone for any reason. However, it’s harder to be fired if you are in a “protected class,” such as older, female pregnant or with kids, racial or religious minority, or have non-obvious disabilities like Autism/ ADHD. If you disclose your Autism beforehand, you’d be harder to get rid of, so they won’t hire you! If you wait until after you start in the job (smarter) or at the end of a probationary period, they may make the accommodations, but still find reasons to reassign or let you go unless you’re measured by your personal results and they’re great. If you never tell them, you may be fired when your worst Autistic behaviors come out, with no recourse. Only already-hired workers have even a chance of winning an anti-discrimination suit; applicants never! So look for jobs that play to your strengths, your special interests, your need for time and space alone to do your best work. Avoid jobs “anybody can do,” because you’re not anybody. I failed as an insurance underwriter, because I needed to be in a creative field. I thought I was worthless; I wasn’t! Once I switched to college textbook publishing, I did great, relating well with college professors!

Chapter Highlights (A-I):

Ch. A: New Home, New Cat:

The lesson this author hopes young people with Autism will learn from this graphic novel is how to say to themselves, “I’m okay just as I am. Yes, sometimes I could pay better attention to what upsets others, and if I want to stay in good graces with them, I’ll be curious about their point of view. But I’m not trying to harm them; they don’t understand me, and I don’t understand them. If we’re both willing to hear each other, I’m willing. If not, I can move on and I’m still okay being me.”

The Author’s Journey in Discovering His Own Autism

Aspie Mouse is a character this author created at age 12 — first named Stupid Mouse. Stupid Mouse cheated death despite having a seemingly lethal habit: playing with cats! He’d avoid being caught by acting differently from other mice: he’d zig when a cat chasing him thought he’d zag. I created him because at age 6-7 I was tired (more accurately, really upset, having major tantrum meltdowns my mother was unable to handle) that Tweety^TM always outwitted Sylvester^TM through cleverness. I made sure my new “prey” character wasn’t clever, but instead ignorant/ oblivious to the danger he faced; yet he avoided death anyway by responding strangely, unlike any other mouse the cat(s) had known.

Back then — and for decades afterwards — Autism wasn’t on this author’s radar. From what little I knew, I didn’t believe I had Autism, because isn’t it about speaking in a monotone and having no facial expression? Often yes, but as I now know, it can also look like talking incessantly, loudly and dramatically. I also know that “doing the unexpected” can create upset and social pushback — like that time at the Y rinsing my hands in another man’s shower. Most often, it’s meant saying whatever’s popped into my head, with no filter, unaware of my anxiety’s rise — so while I would look calm, I’d not pay attention to anyone else’s feelings either. While not purposely trying to insult, embarrass or lose trust with someone, I would anyway.

Massage from here on:

I also didn’t realize that having an active imagination — such as creating my own comic book characters, starting at age five — as well as great oratory skills and a fascination with transportation logistics were examples of how I’d developed special interests — common to the positive side of Autism — that have led to worldly success for Mozart, Darwin, Emily Dickinson, Thomas Edison, Einstein, Bill Gates, Temple Grandin, Greta Thunberg and others with Autism.

Later (after failing at several jobs), I transferred my experience in writing comic books to developing intuition about what makes a book really sell, as a college textbook sales rep and then acquisitions editor for a less-well-known publisher (C. E. Merrill, later absorbed by Prentice Hall/ Pearson) — after being turned down by all the big-name publishers. First, I won top salesperson awards, then later as editor took a backwater list no one else wanted to manage, turning it into the company’s top-performing discipline. I guided a great-but-then-unknown author Tom Floyd’s first textbook to tripling its best prior year’s sales in the 1st year of its 2nd Edition (and being told that was impossible!).It became and remains Engineering Technology’s standard Digital Electronics textbook to this day. Many times in my life — especially pulling off transportation logistics miracles — others would look bewildered and ask, “How’d you do that?” One key to my success was picking a field where having Autism was a net positive: my customers were teachers (so would help me present myself better if I showed interest in learning) and many of them had Autism and/or ADHD themselves. Also, I mostly worked by myself and was judged by results, not technique.

Still, I dwelled on the negative: I always knew something about me wasn’t “right” (now I’d say “wasn’t typical,” as it was “right” for me!). I’d get “Needs Improvement” in “Works and Plays Well with Others” on my report card. Started therapy in third grade, when therapy was uncommon. I had classroom tantrums as late as 9th Grade (and struggle to this day to calm my anxiety and avoid a meltdown when I misplace something or inanimate objects “go rogue”). At 15, I started asking “What’s wrong with me?” and continued asking, while continuing therapy on and off for decades, and trying several personal growth programs (Transactional Analysis, Transcendental Meditation, Opening the Heart, Al-Anon, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Landmark Forum, ManKind Project). And I continued asking, even after identifying as an adult child of an alcoholic and learning I had ADHD. Still believed I’d overlooked a key piece to the puzzle of “who am I?” I had great gifts: intelligence, creativity, consistency, public speaking, generosity and problem-solving. Got into three Ivy League schools from a public housing project. On the other hand, I was rudderless. I’d get fired, alienated potential girlfriends, upset family and friends, and wasn’t trusted — because others never knew what scary, weird insulting anti-social idea or accusation would come out of my mouth or (later) appear in a hastily sent email.

Thanks to personal growth work on self-esteem, self-acceptance, emotional literacy and mindfulness in the ManKind Project (mkp.org), I finally trusted myself, men, women and the universe, enough to marry and become a father late in life. Six years later, my son’s pre-DSM V diagnosis of Asperger’s made me realize Autism can mean loud and overly-expressive. I had it, albeit less pronounced/less obvious than my son’s version. Missing piece now found, I focused my self-growth training — and asked others for help — to challenge my negative self-talk — finally flipping low self-esteem into self-acceptance; learning to find a “calm voice” to soothe my anxiety-prone inner child. I realized I’d been asking the wrong question in “What’s wrong with me?” I switched to “Now that I understand what’s different (not wrong) about me, what can I do to consciously reduce my damaging behaviors and maximize my strengths?

With that understanding, I dusted off that old comic character. I realized what had kept Stupid Mouse safe wasn’t stupidity after all — but “unexpected” behavior arising from social ignorance coupled with unusual brain wiring. His unexpected behavior was far more a strength than weakness. I realized that character, now renamed Aspie Mouse, had been an Autistic alter ego for me all along. I needed to bring him back!

By creating a new set of longer adventures for Aspie Mouse that more consciously demonstrate the advantages of having a Neurodivergent profile, I could give pre-teens, teens & young adults with Autism a positive role model. As the graphic novel developed, I added additional Autistic characters — rodent, feline and human — to present other aspects of Autism besides those Aspie Mouse manifests, because as they say, “If you’ve met one person with Autism, you’ve met one person with Autism” — that is, each person’s Autistic gifts — and challenges — are unique

Have I completely eliminated dysregulated “reactions” in favor of taking a minute to get calm enough to “respond more thoughtfully,” keep repeating that I’m OK just as I am — staying positive — then be curious as to the impact of my behavior on others and stay engaged? Not 100% of the time. Yet, for the first time in my life, I judge I’m in control of my life and stay that way far more often, including: making informed choices to cut some activities out of my life in favor of others; responding more and reacting less to others’ behaviors — letting it be about them; I don’t take it personally — and staying present, telling myself I’m OK, I don’t need to cut off my arm or bash my head, and I won’t die, when I misplace something I need in the moment or something falls out of an overfull cabinet..

Despite the fascination most young people have for super-heroes — perhaps those with Autism more than most — Aspie Mouse is purposely NOT a super-hero. He won’t even accept being called a hero — though others say he is (such as Mouse #83 in Ch. C). He’s just being himself — without being burdened with the self-doubt so common among those with ASD as they try to navigate living in a Neurotypically-dominated world. Other than seeing having Autism as a “super-power” (which many do!), one can succeed with the gifts one already has by finding the right settings, while also willing to work on one’s Autistic challenges enough to overcome some and moderate others.

The Adventures of ASPIE MOUSE started as a blog in 2019. Intended to be a 300-page 15-chapter Graphic Novel for publication in 2021, it switched to two volumes of five action chapters each, after the chapters grew longer and chapter notes and questions were added. It got too big and took way too long! To publish something in 2026, I pivoted again. The nine “action chapters” (A-I) are being published without Chapter Pre-A (second Prologue) or the notes and questions. The “left out” material — including a barely started Chapter J (which I do intend to add at some point, as it adds new Autistic characters, including one non-verbal mouse with profound Autism) — remains in the blog, accessible to readers, parents, teachers, etc. Upon publication of Chapters A-I, however, only a couple of pages of each chapter are remaining in the blog as “previews.”

Some of Aspie Mouse’s Autistic traits that show up regularly in these Adventures

Some — perceived as negative by others — work for him, and might not work for others whether having ASD or not.

• His seeming death wish of a “special interest” to playing games like tag and hide & seek with cats is offset by his unexpected behaviors, such as stopping to examine something on the ground so that the two cats chasing him knock each other out. Aspie Mouse would look back, scratch his head and say, “How come cats sleep all the time?” He’d still think it was all a game; therefore his level of anxiety would be constructive, rather than paralyzing or confusing. Others, meanwhile, are worried for his safety — or declare him a hero — both of which Aspie Mouse minimizes
• Despite being smart, clever and innovative (unlike his predecessor), Aspie Mouse takes everything at face value (a frequent Autistic trait, often associated with honesty/ bluntness/ naivete)– literally. Even when others tell Aspie Mouse he’s being too literal, he thinks they’re talking about him reading a lot! By taking this not-life-or-death criticism as a compliment, Aspie Mouse remains confident instead of judging himself stupid/naive. While Aspie Mouse never evolves to realize he’s too literal, he does gain more awareness about Autism as the work proceeds, especially in Chapter I.
• Aspie Mouse also has no “filter.” He says whatever pops into his head. His dilemmas are often of his own making, and readers are likely to see what he’s missing in social interactions before he gets it. Normally a disadvantage in the world, this works in his favor when a foe either underestimates Aspie Mouse’s ability to win based on his naive chatter or believes Aspie Mouse is purposely trying to mislead the foe (he isn’t!).
• Aspie Mouse’s obvious physical behaviors include always looking up — avoiding eye contact with other characters — and spinning around and flapping when excited. These traits make others uncomfortable, but they serve to self-soothe and lower anxiety. Anxiety is the ever-present bane of those on the Autism Spectrum — raised anxiety often lead to meltdowns (see Trait #5 below).
• The best example of how Aspie Mouse turns an unexpected special interest that he enjoys very much, but others are sure is suicidal into something that works for him is playing with cats. His unexpected responses to cats’ attempts to kill him end up keeping him alive. As long as he doesn’t realize the danger he’s in, he avoids getting dysregulated, and therefore keeps surviving by playing the “game” really well.
• An example of a behavior Aspie Mouse doesn’t bother to correct, because it doesn’t interfere with his life, is mistaking “taking things literally” with “being literate (reading a lot).” It adds humor, and is an opportunity for readers with Autism to realize that in some ways, they’re smarter than Aspie Mouse, because the reader “gets the joke,” while Aspie Mouse never does. The point is that it doesn’t need to be fixed, as long as others don’t use that misunderstanding to make fun of him.
• By showing characters with Autism missing these signals at times — such as Aspie Mouse never grasping the difference between “taking things literally” and “being literate” — the reader gets practice in recognizing “Oh, hey, he missed that one,” and laughing in recognition that “I do that, too.” Same with certain unexpected behaviors that aren’t harmful, but may violate rules about personal space, manners or other social norms: I hope readers with Autism will notice when they occur, and get the lesson that such mistakes are best avoided by taking a few seconds to ask, “Might that person be offended if I did this to them, even if I wouldn’t be offended if they did it to me?” (one of two places for this section; the other with trait #8, social understanding)

The lesson? Don’t let others dictate what you should or shouldn’t do! What you do should fit with who you are. By gaining the tools that Aspie Mouse and friends use to operate successfully in Neurotypical-dominant situations, you can be of choice in how to be your authentic self going forward.

Aspie Mouse and other characters with Autism in this graphic novel model preventing, minimizing and/ or just getting through periods of dysregulation — when the behaviors that drive Neurotypicals crazy or craziest (to use terms best avoided when discussing Autism) usually occur, in response to elevated anxiety and/ or frustration from others’ complaints or one’s own “Uh-oh, I did it again” response. Often, the one with Autism gets scolded — and then realizes that what they’d just done to lower their own stress level likely violated some social understanding or norm they didn’t grasp and thus raised another’s anxiety or stress level.. Aspie Mouse and other animals with Autism in this work show these misunderstandings based on missed social cues, and can get scolded, but then often find a way to use their strengths to win over the ones who scolded them. The adult animal characters with Autism try to avoid their natural black-or-white/ all-or-none thinking, when they show curiosity about trying on both-and/ living-in-the-gray thinking. They often struggle to identify their feelings, but once they do, they try to be OK with such feelings as anger, sadness, fear, shame, and even joy, knowing they will pass.. Yet they often fall short, such as when Aspie Mouse mistakes sadness for hunger in Chapter B. Meltdowns, low self-esteem, depression, refusing to accept change, and negative self-talk all are ways characters show dysregulation — physical reactions to being overwhelmed by frustration, anxiety and similar emotions. For the most part, Aspie Mouse and other characters with Autism seek to avoid such dysregulation — visible meltdowns are few — by seeking and finding more “appropriate” (in greater society’s eyes) responses to strong emotions coming up. It’s not easy: sometimes one’s worst urges can’t be contained, with bad results, such as KK’s “clumsiness” in Chapters F-G.

The secret to a happy, successful life is to move forward, with confidence that my positive traits will carry me through — while becoming more self-aware, self-accepting, and finding work-arounds to lessen what doesn’t work too well when I’m in Neurotypical-dominant spaces. Find understanding allies, too: they help a lot! That said, I’m aware that Rome wasn’t built in a day. To get those with ASD to believe their positives out-weigh their challenges will take a lot more than reading one graphic novel; but I do hope doing so can be one small part of the road to self-acceptance.

Having found a path forward, I want to share it. My intention for this graphic novel is to help pre-teen, teenage and young adult readers with Autism — as well as those who don’t, but want to better understand those who do. I want those with Autism to change their self-talk from negative to positive — earlier in life than I did — because the earlier, the easier! Through the chapters showing the adventures of Aspie Mouse and others with Autism, I hope they’ll notice how important and possible it is to: get and stay calm (present) “no matter what;” stay positive about oneself as a worthy being who has skills and interests that can benefit the world (also “no matter what”); and make an effort to be curious about what others think, instead of not caring or doing something more interesting to me. Most important of all, be yourself as someone with Autism who’s comfortable in your own skin.

On the other hand, they seldom learn from their social misunderstandings, and only rarely do they seek feedback on the impact of their behavior on others. These repeated instances of “social blindness” provide “self-recognition” humor. If I’ve done it right, readers with Autism will take two lessons from Aspie Mouse’s resistance to change (a common Autistic trait): (1) that staying calm — keeping anxiety to a level that helps one focus on the task at hand, vs. allowing elevated anxiety that dysregulates to creep in — may be a higher priority in building and maintaining self-esteem than getting feedback, at least immediately; (2) that by (hopefully) noticing that readers with Autism are aware of what Aspie Mouse isn’t aware of (some social norm he’s clueless about), that they can then laugh and feel better about themselves. Later in this Prologue, when discussing Trait #8 (lack of social understanding) and what follows around getting feedback to show empathy, I will explain how those with Autism can make breakthroughs in these areas, despite limited examples in the chapters.

If I want to stay on good terms with you, it’s not enough to have good intentions (thus the famous saying, “The road to perdition is paved with good intentions”), I need to know the impact my behaviors have on you. Even if I didn’t do anything illegal, immoral or hurtful in my eyes– in my mind, I did nothing wrong!– it would be wise for me to apologize and do some type of makeup.

I’m grateful that Neurodivergence generally — and Autism (along with ADHD) in particular — is now having its day. After years of trying Traditional Psychotherapy, Rational-Emotive Therapy, Transactional Analysis, CBT/DBT, Opening the Heart, Al-Anon/Adult Children of Alcoholics, Landmark Forum, Family Systems Therapy, and Life Coaching, I still kept asking, “What’s wrong with me?” Realizing I have several Autistic traits changed everything! Now I know nothing was wrong — I just needed different tools so my different Operating System could successfully communicate with the dominant Neurotypical one.

Aspie Mouse and other characters with Autism model staying calm, positive and self-confident in the chapter panels. How is explained in this Prologue. However, they do NOT model how to be more Neurotypical, nor how to better “mask” your true self to make others feel safer around you or like you better. Instead, what they change is how they communicate with others and especially themselves — more positively. If I can learn how to calm myself down, not take things so personally, and truly believe I’m as good a human being as anyone else (never perfect) — plus I bring my own special gifts — I’ll feel less anxious, less shame, have fewer meltdowns, and can focus on the positives I offer to others. And say: “I do things my unique way; I do my best in every moment: I’m being myself, I’m proud to be that self.”