Review of Unexpected Lessons From Professor Higgins

[Kim Doyle]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Unexpected Lessons From Professor Higgins" by Patti Smith.]

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3 out of 5 stars

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This is a mother's homage to her son who has Down syndrome. While she was at first taken aback by the knowledge that she'd be raising a special needs child, she treated every perceived obstacle as a teaching moment for the two of them. Well, a teaching moment for her. Even she doubted his ability to overcome what she looked at as challenges, but he taught her that it's ok not to be perfect. My only wish was that this had been written chronologically. There were times when we read about a 45-year-old man, and the next chapter dealt with a teenager. I would have liked to see how his life progressed in order. The lessons he taught should be practiced by everyone. Love thy neighbor, don't sweat the small stuff, it's your problem if you're embarrassed by someone else. Everyone needs a Chris in their life. This is a heartfelt tribute from a mother to her son who has Down syndrome. At first, she was taken aback by the reality of raising a child with special needs. However, she approached each challenge as a valuable teaching moment for both of them. Although she sometimes doubted his ability to overcome what she considered obstacles, he ultimately taught her that it's okay not to be perfect.

One wish I had was for the narrative to be presented chronologically. There were instances when we read about a 45-year-old man, only to switch to a chapter focused on him as a teenager. I would have preferred to see the progression of his life in order.

The lessons he imparted should be embraced by everyone: love your neighbor, don’t sweat the small stuff, and if you feel embarrassed by someone else, that’s your problem. Everyone could benefit from having a Chris in their life.

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Unexpected Lessons From Professor Higgins
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