Maybe I'm Amazed

A Story of Love and Connection in Ten Songs

De: John Harris

Narrado por: John Harris

In this extraordinary memoir, a father tells the story of how music has opened up the world to his son, one song at a time.

Obsessed with music since he was a child, John Harris had no idea that he was in fact preparing himself for the greatest challenge of his life. But so it transpired. When his son James was born, and three years later diagnosed with autism, music became a source of precious connection and endless wonder for both of them.

Maybe I'm Amazed describes how the music of The Beatles, Kraftwerk, Funkadelic, The Velvet Underground, Amy Winehouse and many more were soon woven into the fabric of James's life, becoming an essential part of who he is. It takes us through the struggles of raising an autistic child in a prejudiced world, and uncovers a hidden history of neurodivergence and creativity that casts new light on why notes, chords and lyrics speak so powerfully to the human mind.

Anyone who has fallen in love with a band or heard their life reflected back to them by a song will recognise themselves in the story of this father and his son. And in considering the intense and transcendent way James absorbs and connects with music, it has lessons in listening and living for us all.

©2025 John Harris (P)2025 Hodder & Stoughton Limited

Reseñas de la Crítica

Every page breaks your heart then repairs it with love, compassion and the magical power of music. A stunning reminder that the alchemy of music and words can overcome, heal and connect like no other art form. (Nicky Wire, Manic Street Preachers)

This book taught me so much and delighted and moved me even more. Entrancing, heartbreaking, uplifting - a complete inspiration and education. (Marina Hyde)

All of us who love music know it has a power beyond just the sound it makes. In this moving account of life with a neurodivergent child, we get to witness that power first hand. (Billy Bragg)

John Harris's wonderful book provides a touching and personal window into the relationship between a father and his autistic son and is an immensely valuable contribution to our understanding of the special connection between autistic people and music. (Simon Baron-Cohen)

A beautiful story of music and autism, and how one intersects with the other to bring hope, understanding and connection. It is also one of the most affecting accounts of parental devotion I've read. (Nick Duerden)