Episode 3
Naoki Higashida reveals a unique insight into his world as a teenager with severe autism. Read by Matthew Beard.
Naoki Higashida was 13 before he understood the fact of his disability.
His first book, written at that time, revealed a young boy with an astonishing internal life, full of wonder at the world, as well as sadness at the challenges of his condition.
Now, he looks back on his childhood with the eyes of a thoughtful young man. He describes how he couldn't, as a child, visualise a future for himself. Time's passage felt unending, like a swing he couldn't get off, while the scenery remained unchanging.
Now, he has begun not only to inhabit, but also to imagine greater possibilities for his future in the neurotypical world.
Written by Naoki Higashida.
Translated by David Mitchell and KA Yoshida
Read by Matthew Beard, and introduced by David Mitchell.
Abridged by Robin Brooks.
Producer: Allegra McIlroy
First broadcast on Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4 in July 2017.
Last on
Credits
| Role | Contributor |
|---|---|
| Reader | Matthew Beard |
| Author | Naoki Higashida |
| Translation | David Mitchell |
| Translation | KA Yoshida |
| Abridger | Robin Brooks |
| Producer | Allegra McIlroy |
Broadcasts
Wed 19 Jul 2017 09:45Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4 FM- Thu 20 Jul 2017 00:30Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4
- Wed 1 Jun 2022 14:00Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4 Extra
- Thu 2 Jun 2022 02:00Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4 Extra
The Path to Fall Down Seven Times, Get Up Eight
David Mitchell describes how a young Japanese boy helped him understand his son's autism.