Stumbling Upon My Purpose by Christopher A. Chaplin published by MasterpieceFactory Inc. (C) 2006 available amazon.com
In this Encouragement story, a man learns that his son has been born with hemophilia and autism. The stress of the situation catapults the father into single parenthood and he is forced to endure a difficult court battle for sole custody of his disabled son. Through diligence and determination, he develops methods to further help his troubled child. More importantly, he stumbles upon what he believes is his personal calling in life and his purpose for living. With the realization that he has discovered unique methods and tools to cope with parenting difficulties, the man's focus is now fulfilling his dream of establishing himself as a writer of children's literature.
While very "personal," my story is written in such a manner as to impart a lesson and to aid parents of physically/mentally/emotionally challenged children by helping them to cope with the situations they face. I am not necessarily saying that my way is the way, but rather I am saying, "Here are examples that you can use to help to 'imagine' coping mechanisms that will work specifically for your
Book Review Quotes:
Caroline Ganz (parent) says "You have uncovered the treasure of life - thanks for persevering and revealing this truth to others."
Andree Perreault (ECE) says "This book is a true inspiring story of courage, unconditional love and determination against all odds."
Stumbling Upon My Purpose:
A true encouragement story
by Christopher A. Chaplin
Reviewed by Bob Rich, Ph. D.
Published by www.masterpiecefactory.com
ISBN 1-897347-03-0
RRP $17.49
I am a professional editor as well as a psychologist. Also, I am a professional grandfather, with a love of children. So, the little editing job I received via email was just right: a picture book for very young children who suffer from handicaps of communication.
The concept and story line were excellent, but clearly this writer was very close to illiterate. Still, I knocked the language into shape for him.
Since that first little book, I have worked closely with Chris Chaplin on a long list of projects: more picture books, chapter books to be read to older handicapped children, the design and wording of his web site www.masterpiecefactory.com (dedicated to helping multiple-handicapped children), and finally, on a book about how he coped with the problems caused by his son's haemophilia and severe autism - this book.
By the time Chris wrote Stumbling Upon My Purpose, his use of English was excellent. In his own way, this black man from the ghetto (his own description) is a genius. He is certainly very good at learning, and incredibly creative.
The book starts as a very touching, beautifully written story of how Chris coped with little Christopher's problems, how he developed his own unique approach to doing far more than managing them: he has helped the boy to make gains that The Professionals would not believe. Time and again, Chris defied doctors, educators and other experts, went his own way - and succeeded.
But the book is not primarily biography. It is an inspiration and example to others who carry the load of caring for a handicapped child. While it is a sample of one, Chris is careful to point out that it is meant to be used as a starting point in developing a unique approach for a unique child. I think it is brilliant for this purpose.
Many parents despair, feel resentful at fate, and buckle under the strain. Well, all of us are likely to do so from time to time. I am sure Chris has. However, he is a shining example of how to turn adversity into an opportunity for personal growth, giving and love.
The second half of this little volume contains poems and short essays by Chris on a variety of relevant topics, and an outline of the contribution his various other books can make to the education of a multiple-handicapped child.
Funds raised from the sale of this book will help MasterpieceFactory Inc. to continue to explore and discover more ways to help special people live a proud and informed life.