About the Author

Mary Karsten Hebrank is a married mother of three who retired from corporate America to focus on raising her family.  In 2000, her son was diagnosed with classic autism, and Mary set out to learn as much as she could about this development disorder, including therapies and treatments.

Inspired by her children's profound understanding of her son's gifts and challenges, Mary wrote Evan & Me, A Story of Autism and Love.

Originally created as a classroom presentation for her twin's schoolmates and teachers, she collaborated closely with illustrator Kat Parrish to bring the prisms of autism to the page.

Today 1 in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, and Mary is committed to raising awareness and fostering understanding, especially for children.  She is donating a portion of proceeds from Evan & Me, A Story of Autism and Love to benefit the national organization, Autism Speaks.

Knowing first-hand the challenges families of autism face, the questions asked by kids at school, the sometimes cruel jokes made, and the looks strangers give when a temper flares out of control, Mary hopes Evan & Me will be useful tool in bridging the communication gap for families, schools and communities across America.

Mary is a native and resident of St Louis, Missouri. She graduated from University of Missouri-Columbia and later received her Master of Arts in Communication from Webster University. Married for fifteen years, she enjoys reading literature and playing golf.