Jake Hampson

Marks of a Changing City Jake Hampson

Mark is autistic, ADHD, and dyslexic, he is trying to navigate his final day and weekend of the first week of high school. Mark's parents and his brother don't believe that Mark should receive help for his disabilities as they are not easily seen by his family.

Mark leads the reader through his thought process and experience of adapting and needing to figure out his emotions dealing with his family. Unfortunately, it is seen as Mark rebelling when he first learned how to communicate when he went nonverbal. The help that Mark receives from his neighbors, teachers, and counselors helps Mark to pursue his passion for art. While he is alienated by his family, Mark is accepted by his peers, whom his parents don't understand. Mark wants to feel cared for by his family like all of his friends are though he is slowly finding out who is a good friend and who he can rely on. Though Mark's life in school and with his peers is improving, Mark still feels isolated in his own home as he lives with a family that doesn't accept him as he is.

Marks of a Changing City is the story of a high schooler's journey as he struggles with ADHD, autism, and dyslexia. He searches to find people who will accept him for who he is and not what is wanted by preconceived notions.