Tova Adler is tired, having devoted more than three decades raising three children, including a son with severe autism. This observant Jewish woman believes it is time to transition him to a home of his own. Her husband Alex disagrees. This conflict is at the heart of a story that also touches on what it means to be the child of Holocaust survivors and offers a look at the beauty and wisdom of Judaism. (Proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated to the National Council on Severe Autism [NCSA]).
The Good One tells the story of Tova Adler, mother of three adult children, including a severely autistic son, Coby. Now in her late 60's, Tova is ready for him to move out.
Alex, Tova's husband, does not agree. He harbors a deep emotional connection to Coby, named for his late father, and wants him to remain under their care.
Torn between her sense of duty and the desire for self-preservation, Tova turns to her lifelong friend and confidante, Connie. She travels to Michigan to spend time with her, hoping to find clarity and courage to make the hard decisions that lie ahead.
This bookpaints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by parents of individuals with special needs.
Tova's journey is a testament to the enduring power of a mother's love, bolstered by religious faith. The reader follows Tova and Alex as they navigate a path of difficult choices.
Will Tova and Alex find a way to reconcile their differing perspectives? Can they chart a pathway that respects both Coby's needs and their own? In the end, how does one judge which parent is "the good one" in this situation?
