Naoki Higashida

Naoki Higashida is an autistic Japanese writer known for his books that explore the experiences of autistic individuals. He began writing at a young age, using an alphabet grid to communicate as he is non-verbal. Higashida's writing provides insight into the thoughts and feelings of people with autism, drawing on his own experiences. His most recognized work is "The Reason I Jump," originally published in Japan in 2007, which was written when he was thirteen years old and takes the form of questions and answers about autism, interspersed with short stories and poems. The book was translated into English by KA Yoshida and David Mitchell and published in the UK in 2013. Higashida has since published several other books, including "Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8," which also explores his experiences and perspectives as a non-verbal autistic person. He has also written children's books, poems, and essays. Forbes Japan recognized him as one of their "30 under 30" in 2021. He also blogs and gives presentations in Japan, advocating for autistic people.