September 7, 2023
Oakland University sophomore Grant Harrison became a best-selling author after writing a children’s book inspired by his own experiences as a child growing up with Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism spectrum disorder.
“I was diagnosed at a very young age, and it’s impacted a good part of my life,” Harrison said. “I wrote Will You Be My Friend? Based On A True Story Through The Eyes And Ears of Autism because I wanted to bring awareness to families who have or know someone with autism, and help them understand that it’s okay to be different and to go after those dreams you put in front of you.”
The book reached No. 1 in multiple categories, including Best New Book, on Amazon and inspired Harrison to keep writing. His latest book, Dad, Please Don’t Go! Based On A True Story Through The Eyes And Ears Of Autism, was released in July and he was featured on Yahoo’s “In The Know: Changemakers” that same month.
“Dad, Please Don’t Go! Based On A True Story Through The Eyes And Ears Of Autism is a story based on my own experiences and follows the main character, Grant, who is about to embark on summer camp,” Harrison said. “Even though he is going with his brother, Grant doesn’t feel like he will be able to cope as his dad had to return to work for a couple of days.
“After setting up their tent, meeting some nice kids at lunch, and having fun during the day, when night approached Grant’s anxiety begins to get the better of him and he begins to panic. He thinks the other kids will tease and make fun of him, but to his surprise, he discovers that they all have the same fears and they aren’t so different from him after all.”
Harrison said he hopes his books will inspire others and spread hope to those facing similar challenges.
“I think the biggest takeaway I would want to give people who read my books is to try not to let roadblocks stop you from trying new and exciting things, or from letting you be you,” he said. “People are absolutely ready to support you, wherever they may be or whoever they may be, so don’t be afraid to let your own wonders shine!”
When he’s not busy writing best-selling books, Harrison enjoys making music with the Oakland University Symphonic Band as a percussionist.
“Music has always been a big part of my life,” he said. “Playing music allows me to express myself without worrying about standing out because of my fidgeting habits, plus music has allowed friendships with so many other kids in the band family.”
Harrison is currently pursuing a degree in interdisciplinary studies and hopes to minor in computer science and creative writing. He will be joined on campus this year by his younger brother, Bryce, who wants to major in mathematics and earn a teaching certification.
“I’m absolutely loving Oakland University, and I’m super excited to have my brother join me on campus,” Harrison said. “I think he’s absolutely going to thrive at OU, and I think he’s excited about it, too.”
You can learn more about Harrison and his inspiring life by following him on Instagram (@Fetchtheswell_autism).