About The Guest(s): Jen Malia is a professor of English and a writer of children's books. She started out publishing literary criticism before transitioning to creative writing. Her interest in neurodivergence and autism led her to write personal essays and reported pieces on the topic. This eventually led to the opportunity to write children's books, including the "Infinity Rainbow Club" series.

Summary: Jen Malia, a professor of English and writer of children's books, discusses her transition from academic writing to creative writing. She shares how her autism diagnosis influenced her writing and inspired her to create stories about neurodivergent characters. Jen also talks about the inspiration behind her "Infinity Rainbow Club" series and the importance of portraying neurodivergent kids in everyday situations. She emphasizes the need for acceptance and understanding of neurodivergence and hopes that her books will reach a wide audience, including educators and parents.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/BTHkinTYPaxmxBV_6vl_f50Ng4E

Key Takeaways:

• Jen Malia wanted to write books about neurodivergent characters who go about their everyday lives rather than focusing solely on their neurodivergence.
• The characters in the "Infinity Rainbow Club" series are inspired by real-life experiences and composite characters.
• Jen's autism diagnosis later in life changed her view of herself and her parenting approach, emphasizing acceptance and pride in being neurodivergent.
• The educational experiences of the characters in the series are based on inclusive classrooms with collaboration between general education and special education teachers.
• Jen hopes her books will be a resource for neurodivergent kids and help promote acceptance and understanding among all students.

Jen Malia:

Website: https://jenmalia.com/

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jenmaliabooks

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenmaliabooks/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomWithAutism/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenmaliabooks/

MCIE:

Website: https://www.mcie.org/

Email List: https://bit.ly/MCIE-Email-List

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThinkInclusive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/think_inclusive/

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/think_inclusive

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ThinkinclusiveUs

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inclusive-education/

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