Autism is a World - CNN

This Oscar-nominated documentary is a collection of thoughts written by autistic 26-year old Sue Rubin who takes viewers on a poignant journey into her world to educate the public while empowering the autistic community toward their potential. "This is not my voice, but these are my words," begins Rubin as she tells her story (narrated by Julianna Margulies) of being diagnosed with autism as a young child and assumed mentally retarded until, at age 13, she was trained to use Facilitated Communication, a verbal tool that enabled her mind to "wake up." Rubin was reassessed with an IQ that allowed her to attend high school and college and live on her own, assisted by a team of caregivers. The film briefly explains autism and how it affects the brain’s wiring, yet is not meant to be a tutorial on neuro-biology but rather a personal attempt at unveiling a world that is both frustrating and confusing. Rubin discusses her feelings about solitude, social situations, and the need for familiar places and routines. Though autism will be her constant struggle, Rubin’s story is both inspiring and thought provoking. While the film does not presume to be the final word on autism, it is a beginning--and a noble one at that. (Ages 12 and older) --Lynn Gibson