Upward Bound is a daycare centre in Los Angeles, and it is far from being the affirming, aspirational place its name suggests. The disabled people who meet here are misunderstood, overlooked and patronised.

In this collection of stories, we learn about life for a number of the clients here, as well as the centre's director and a potential member of staff. Their tales are both easy and challenging to read as each one forces us to consider our own prejudices and preconceptions, and to see life differently.

The novel has been written by Woody Brown, who is autistic and non-speaking. He graduated from the creative writing course at UCLA, helped by his mother who transcribes what he spells out on a letter board. 

Woody wrote the book, he says, to explore the 'what ifs' of his life, and to show people what it is like to be constantly underestimated because of a disability. Though he wanted to inform readers about the world they may not be familiar with, he also sought to create a piece of work which would be appreciated in its own right.

And it's incredible. It's a humorous and entertaining read while also being poignant, life-affirming and challenging. 

I found the chapter 'Avery The Team Member' hugely encouraging and inspiring - a young woman works the tills of a supermarket. She's become tired of watching her customers: 'people turn out to be stupid in similar ways'. The highlight for her at the same time each week is to observe a group of clients from Upward Bound who are brought in to browse the shelves. She delights in their visits, their joy and lack of inhibition, and their individuality. She comes to realise that she'd like to train to work with them and people like them.  

It's a brilliant read, with a powerful message. 

Interesting interview with the author in the Guardian recently.