A continuation from my first book "Angels Among Us" about my son; Caleb, who developed Asperger's Syndrome and was being bullied in school.  The book and his story was created to help teachers and fellow students understand the world they live in and why they are so different from their peers.

Angels Among Us Journey into Adulthood

Caleb, with a hopeful expression, standing at the entrance of a school, backpack on his shoulder, and the morning sun casting a warm glow on the building.

Caleb was excited for the new school year to begin. He had made a lot of progress in understanding his Asperger's Syndrome, and he was ready to face any challenges that came his way. His parents, Alan and Denise, were proud of how far he had come. They knew that Caleb's journey into adulthood was going to be filled with both joy and obstacles, but they were ready to support him every step of the way. As the first day of school arrived, Caleb felt a mix of nervousness and excitement, but he knew that he had the strength to overcome any difficulties.

The New School Year

Caleb, smiling brightly, shaking hands with a young man (Ethan) in the lunch room with other students in the background.

During lunch break, Caleb noticed a group of students talking and laughing. He wanted to join them but felt hesitant. Just then, a friendly boy named Ethan approached him and asked if he wanted to hang out with them. Caleb's heart filled with happiness as he found a new friend. Ethan was kind and understanding, and he didn't mind that Caleb was different. Together, they played games and shared stories. Caleb felt grateful for this new friendship and realized that there were indeed people with kind hearts.

Making New Friends

Caleb, standing firmly with a serious yet calm face, as shadows of other children loom in the background, not showing the bullies' faces to keep the focus on Caleb.

One day, Caleb encountered a group of kids who started making fun of him because of his Asperger's Syndrome. They called him names and laughed at his unique way of doing things. Caleb felt hurt and confused, but he remembered the support of his family and his new friend, Ethan. He gathered the courage to stand up to the bullies and told them that being different was okay. To his surprise, Ethan and other classmates stood by his side, showing the bullies that kindness and understanding were stronger than cruelty.

Facing Bullies

Caleb, working on a computer creating his animations, in a computer classroom.

As the school year went on, Caleb discovered his love for animating. He found solace in expressing himself through vibrant colors and imaginative creations. His art teacher, Mrs. Lopez, noticed his talent and encouraged him to showcase his work in the school's art exhibition. Caleb's confidence grew as he poured his heart into each animation, and he realized that his Asperger's Syndrome was not a barrier but a unique part of who he was. His parents and Ethan cheered him on, proud of his resilience and creativity.

Discovering Strength Within

Caleb, standing in front of a classroom with a PowerPoint slide about Asperger's Syndrome, taking a deep breath as he prepares to speak.

During a class presentation, Caleb felt anxious about speaking in front of his classmates. His mind raced with thoughts of self-doubt, but then he remembered the strength he had discovered within himself. With a deep breath, he began to share his experiences living with Asperger's Syndrome. His honesty and bravery touched the hearts of his peers, and they listened attentively, gaining a new understanding of his journey. Caleb realized that by sharing his story, he was breaking down barriers and fostering empathy among his classmates.

Overcoming Obstacles

Caleb, eyes wide with surprise and joy, as he looks at his animation on a monitor with a banner reading 'Caleb's Art Exhibition'.

As the school year came to a close, Caleb's parents and Ethan planned a heartwarming surprise for him. They organized an art exhibition featuring Caleb's paintings, inviting the entire school and their families. The exhibition was a celebration of Caleb's unique talent and an opportunity for everyone to appreciate his perspective. Caleb was overwhelmed with joy as he saw the admiration and support from his school community. He realized that his journey into adulthood was not just about overcoming obstacles but also about embracing the love and kindness around him.

A Heartwarming Surprise

Caleb and Ethan (not shown) walking on a forest trail, with Caleb leading and looking back over his shoulder with a smile, surrounded by tall trees and sunlight filtering through the leaves.

During the summer break, Caleb and Ethan explored the nearby woods, discovering hidden trails and secret hideouts. They laughed, shared stories, and enjoyed the beauty of nature. Caleb felt grateful for the friendship and the adventures that awaited him. He knew that the angels among them were guiding him towards new experiences and cherished memories. With each passing day, Caleb felt more confident and ready to face the next chapter of his life.

Summer Adventures

Caleb, with a backpack slung over one shoulder, standing in front of a large high school building, looking up at it with a mixture of anticipation and confidence.

As the summer came to an end, Caleb and Ethan prepared to enter college. They were both excited and a little nervous about the new environment and challenges that awaited them. However, they knew that their friendship and the support of their families would help them navigate through this new chapter. Alan and Denise reassured Caleb that he had grown into a resilient and compassionate young man, ready to embrace the opportunities that college would bring. With a hopeful heart, Caleb stepped into the next phase of his journey.

Preparing for High School

Caleb, sitting at a computer with animation on the monitor, with other students in the background engaged in their own artwork.

High school brought new experiences and a sense of growth for Caleb. He joined the art club and found a community of fellow artists who appreciated his unique perspective. His friendship with Ethan remained strong, and they supported each other through the ups and downs of high school life. Caleb's journey into adulthood was marked by embracing change and finding strength in his differences. He knew that the angels among them continued to guide him, filling his life with love and understanding.

Embracing Change

Caleb, standing on a stage in the auditorium, speaking into a microphone with a projected image of a butterfly symbolizing transformation behind him.

During a school assembly, Caleb shared his story and the message of hope with his peers. He spoke about the importance of empathy, understanding, and acceptance for individuals with unique abilities. His words resonated with many, and he received a warm applause from the entire school. Caleb realized that his journey had the power to inspire others and create a more inclusive and compassionate community. He felt grateful for the love and support that surrounded him, knowing that he was indeed an angel among them.

A Message of Hope

Caleb, looking contemplative and inspired, holding a paintbrush with a canvas depicting a pair of angelic wings in front of him, symbolizing his growth and the angels among us.

As Caleb approached graduation, he reflected on his journey and the dreams that unfolded before him. He had discovered his passion for art, found true friendship, and embraced his unique identity. With the guidance of his loving parents, the unwavering support of Ethan, and the understanding of his school community, Caleb felt ready to spread his wings and pursue his dreams. His story was a testament to the power of resilience, kindness, and the angels among us who illuminate our path.

Dreams Unfold

Caleb, in a graduation cap and gown, holding his diploma with pride as confetti falls around him, with silhouettes of the audience clapping in the background.

On the day of graduation, Caleb stood tall, wearing a proud smile on his face. As he received his diploma, the entire auditorium erupted into applause, celebrating his journey and the remarkable young man he had become. Alan and Denise beamed with pride, knowing that their son had embraced his journey into adulthood with courage and grace. Ethan stood by his side, a true friend who had shared the joys and challenges of growing up. As Caleb looked towards the future, he knew that the angels among us would continue to guide him, lighting the way for the new beginning that awaited him.