The Scenic Route

Embracing the Detours, Roadblocks, and Unexpected Joys of Raising an Autistic Child

By: Leigh Merryday Porch

Narrated by: Leigh Merryday Porch

Reflections on autism, parenting, and embracing destinations unknown.

In The Scenic Route, Leigh Merryday Porch offers insight into how parents of children with autism can redefine hope in a world that often has a narrow view of what hope is supposed to look like for their kids. As an educator and expert on autism spectrum disorders as well as the mother of a son who is autistic, Porch knows well the pressure parents of special needs children feel to overcome any and all challenges their children face. But not all disabilities result in heartwarming viral stories. According to Porch, we must write our own stories about what is possible for our kids and love them just as they are.

A chronicle of one family’s journey from the shock and uncertainty of a severe autism diagnosis to acceptance and advocacy, in this beautifully written book Porch shares the lessons she has learned about charting your own course. From learning to cope with sleepless, worry-filled nights to asking friends and family for the help and support you actually need, she offers readers a road map for helping our children thrive while still taking the time to stop and enjoy the beauty in life’s unforeseen detours.


* This audiobook includes a downloadable PDF of resources from the book.

So much I didn't know.

As I listened to this book, I was constantly remarking to myself how honest and authentic it is. I learned so much about autism and how deeply it affects the autistic individual and the families of autistic children. I was a teacher for many years and wish I knew then what Leigh Merryday Porch has shared with us now. Thankyou.

Heartfelt wonder!

This is a warm hug full of honestly and love. The Scenic Route is the real-world lens in loving our humanness. Leigh Merryday Porch nails it and anyone who listens will find themselves entertained and expanded.

An excellent Autism Primer

I knew very little about Autism prior to reading Ms Porch's book. Ms Porch blends her own experiences with no nonsense teaching about the realities of raising an autistic child in today's world. Her book is an excellent guide through the red tape and road blocks the parents of an autist will face.

Additionally, Ms Porch's melodic, southern voice makes listening a joy. I laughed and cried as she weaved the story of her journey with useful information about raising an autistic child. She also, very gently, instructs people like me the do's and don'ts of interacting with autists

I highly recommend this book.