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Nobody Nowhere by Donna Williams, reviewed by Taryn L.

Donna Williams’ first novel and fascinating autobiography is a memoir of her life and the inner battle she struggled through for twenty-five years. Nobody Nowhere tells the story of a confused young girl in her own world trying desperately to understand herself and those around her. As Donna comes to terms with herself, she slowly learns to adapt to the real world and perform as a “normal” identified human being.

From a young age, it was obvious that Donna wasn’t a typical child. Often mistakenly labeled “deaf,” “retarded,” and “insane,” this unusual girl lived in “her world” as opposed to “the world.” While most toddlers enjoy interacting with one another, playing children’s games, and watching animated films, Donna was not interested in any of the above. Quite the opposite, Donna could not socially relate to other kids and was more fascinated by nature and the world around her more so than the actual people in her life. She tended to focus more on the colors, patterns, and shapes of her surroundings. No one understood why she acted the way she did, especially Donna herself. The dreamlike state she lived in created a barrier between her and the “normal” which she struggled to cross her entire life. At age twenty-five, when Donna discovered the word “autism,” for the first time she became aware of who she was, and why she acted the way she did. Learning more about autism helped Donna understand herself and the world around her, and allowed her to eventually break the barrier and join the real world.

This novel offers the reader and unbelievable opportunity to virtually experience life from the perspective of an autistic. Rather than merely learning from a reference source, Donna’s remarkable story and outlook provides a more genuine, intricate knowledge of the disability. One is able to better understand the lifestyles and behaviors of those who suffer from autism through Donna’s thoughts, actions, and ultimate triumph. Her captivating story is exceptional and unique from the classic fiction novel. It keeps you turning the pages and wanting to read the next chapter in Donna’s journey.

Some readers may find the complexity of the novel a bit overwhelming and difficult to understand. Donna’s elaborate ideas and theories might be hard for one to grasp, for her story is one we could never possibly identify with. Her outlook on the world certainly contrasts to our perspective, therefore some readers may find the content confusing and complicated.
Overall, this novel is entirely worthy of four stars. Nobody Nowhere is a brilliant book written by an inspired woman who has given us the fortune of hearing her story. Donna Williams’ motivated journey from a withdrawn frightened little girl into a comfortable confident young woman acts as a lesson to us all. She shows extreme courage and incentive, and her powerful words open our eyes into a world we have never seen before. Her memoir illustrates a whole new perspective on reality and life. Nobody Nowhere is an electrifying, enlightening, and truly touching novel.