東田 直樹

About the Author

Naoki Higashida, born in 1990 in Tokyo, Japan, was diagnosed with severe autism at the age of five, a condition that rendered verbal communication nearly impossible for him. Undeterred, he began using a handmade alphabet grid at age thirteen to painstakingly spell out his thoughts, revealing a profound inner world that challenged common misconceptions about autism. His groundbreaking memoir, '自閉症の僕が跳びはねる理由 (角川つばさ文庫)', translated internationally as 'The Reason I Jump', became a global phenomenon, offering intimate insights into the sensory experiences and emotions of those on the autism spectrum. Through his writing, Higashida advocates for empathy and understanding, inspiring readers worldwide to see beyond stereotypes and embrace neurodiversity with compassion and curiosity.