Holly Robinson-Peete Pens Book For Children With Autism

Actress Holly Robinson-Peete's new picture book, ‘My Brother Charlie’ aims to educate children about the struggles of living with autism.

‘My Brother ’Charlie’ was inspired by Peete’s 12-year old twins, Ryan and RJ. RJ was diagnosed with autism at a young age, and when Peete saw her son bullied at school because other kids didn’t understand the developmental disorder, the book was born.

“My daughter Ryan inspired me to co-write My Brother Charlie with her,” said Robinson-Peete in a recent interview. “She wanted to advocate for her twin brother who has autism.”

Ryan told People magazine, “I want people to know what autism is so they don’t get a whole weird idea. Kids with autism are exceptional human beings.”

Peete’s husband, former NFLer Rodney Peete, is also sharing his story with others in his own memoir, Not My Boy! which details his struggle to accept his son’s diagnosis.

Both books are now available and on Sunday, April 11, 2010, Holly Robinson-Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete will host the inaugural My Brother Charlie’s Family Fun Festival in Culver City California, in association with The HollyRod Foundation.