I have a MC on the autistic spectrum - Gage. While I’m not autistic myself, I do have C-PTSD, which has resulted in sensory issues like misophonia, constant anxiety (especially in social situations), a range of stimming behaviours to deal with anxiety, problems with certain foods, and a need for routine, among other things. So I know what it’s like to have a brain that doesn’t function “normally”. I’ve done research to fill any gaps in my knowledge, but having said that – if you read the story and come across anything that reads as inauthentic or ignorant, please let me know!
Gage’s character is partially a response to a lot of the stereotypes about autistic people, such as being devoid of empathy (Gage would do anything for his friends), and having zero interest in sex (absolutely nothing wrong with that, but autistic ≠ asexual).
Gage is fifteen-years-old at the beginning of the story and in his first day of grade nine. He has an extensive knowledge of many subjects and could be in a higher grade, but Nana, his caretaker, wants him to be around kids his own age (and hopefully make a few friends). He connects almost immediately with child actor Tobi, who’s captivated by Gage’s enthusiasm for animals. He later befriends the class bully, Ram, who appreciates Gage’s bluntness and fondness for guns.
Gage sees a therapist at least once a week and has since the age of four. Gage was in a plane crash that killed his parents and didn’t speak for two years. Dr. Marwan helps Gage deconstruct problems and alleviate any confusion that arises over dealing with people. Dr. Marwan emphasizes he doesn’t want to change Gage, or force him to be something he’s not, only to help him cope. This was important to me, because there’s a lot of unfortunate kids who are forced into therapy and taught being autistic is something they need to hide, rather than embrace.
As Gage grows older, and life becomes more complicated, he struggles with having to keep secrets in the interest of sparing his friends from pain. But sooner or later, the truth is bound to come out.
[Art by Kokamugithu]