FOREWORD

Almost thirty years have passed since I began writing And Don’t Bring Jeremy. At the time my two sons were in elementary school, and most of you reading the novel for the first time weren’t even born. Life was a bit different in the eighties. The Electronic Age was just starting. Computers were here, but not everyone had one. And no one walked around with a bluetooth in one ear, or with a smartphone or tablet glued to their hands.

Most other things haven’t changed since And Don’t Bring Jeremy was first published. These days many, many kids have special needs. Some are neurologically impaired like Jeremy. Others have Asperger’s Syndrome. Still others have physical disabilities or need to cope with a severe allergy. The list goes on. Kids with special needs often require assistance to get through the day. They’re different, which sometimes makes them a target for bullies like Eddie—kids who make fun of people in order to feel good about themselves.

While And Don’t Bring Jeremy is a work of fiction, the essence of the book was inspired by my own family. Though neurologically impaired, Jeremy has terrific strengths, which his brother finally learns to appreciate. I’m delighted to say the real Jeremy continues to lead a happy and productive life.

Marilyn Levinson

November 2012