Embracing the Complexity of Family: A Review of Rules by Cynthia Lord
When I first picked up Rules by Cynthia Lord, I was drawn in not just by its simple yet evocative title but also by the promise of a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics. The story centers around Catherine, a twelve-year-old who navigates everyday life alongside her autistic brother, David. As someone with an autistic brother myself, I felt an immediate connection, and I was eager to see how Lord would depict their relationship.
At the heart of Rules is a vivid portrayal of love, responsibility, and the challenges that come with caring for a sibling who sees the world through a different lens. Catherine is not only burdened with the weight of understanding her brother’s needs, but also the high expectations of being the "normal" child in the family. Lord’s writing expertly captures those moments of frustration and warmth that are all too familiar for anyone in a similar situation. One particularly poignant lesson arises when David’s father uses the term "late." To him, it’s a confusing concept, and Catherine’s gentle reminder, "Late doesn’t mean not coming,” holds a truth that resonates deeply.
Speaking of characters, Catherine’s journey is not just about her relationship with David but also her emerging friendships, particularly with their new neighbor, Kristi, and Jason, a boy who communicates using cards due to his own challenges. Each character adds layers to the narrative, prompting Catherine to reconcile her own feelings about disability, acceptance, and the social pressures of adolescence. Often, I found myself nodding along to her reactions, as I could sympathize with her inner conflicts—should she prioritize her brother’s needs or fit in with her peers? Lord captures these moments with a gentle authenticity that helps readers empathize with both the frustrations and joys of family life.
Lord’s narrative pacing is particularly noteworthy, as it mirrors the rhythm of a child navigating her environment—each encounter serves a purpose, revealing deeper truths about growth and understanding. The use of dialogue feels organic and relatable, enhancing the authenticity of the characters’ voices. The quote from Jason, “Thank you. Catherine. New. Words,” is a beautiful reminder of how communication, in all its forms, can bridge gaps between people.
Though I occasionally found myself thinking about how I might react differently than Catherine, I appreciated the realistic portrayal of her learning curve. There’s a certain bravado that many children exhibit around their peers, and it’s genuine that Lord doesn’t shy away from showcasing Catherine’s occasional overreactions. It felt true to life, reflecting the struggles we all face when balancing our roles as caregivers and individuals.
As I closed the book, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the insights it offered. Rules is not merely a tale about autism; it’s a celebration of the complexities of sibling relationships, and the messiness of growing up. I would highly recommend it to readers looking to understand autism better or simply seeking a charming, quick read. This book reminded me that everyone has their own set of rules, and navigating them requires both patience and love.
In essence, Rules is an enriching experience, nudging readers to embrace differences and break down barriers, both within families and in broader social contexts. For me, it was not just a story; it was a mirror reflecting my own experiences, one that left me hopeful and more at peace with my brother’s journey.