Book Review: "Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8" by Naoki Higashida

Naoki Higashida, Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8: A Young Man's Voice from the Silence of Autism

"Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8" by Naoki Higashida is a compelling memoir that provides a profound perspective on life through the eyes of a young man with nonverbal autism. It's not just a book; it's a heartfelt conversation with Naoki, where he shares his world in meaningful chapters.

After the remarkable success of his first book, "The Reason I Jump" by Naoki Higashida and David Mitchell- an insightful book about growing up with autism, narrated from a child's perspective- his second book provides fresh insights from a teenager/young adult's viewpoint on life with autism. Naoki's memoir delves even deeper into the realms of identity, education, family, society, and personal development. His perspective challenges preconceived notions about autism and uncovers the extraordinary hidden within everyday life, exemplified by the intricate cognitive journey he embarks on to comprehend rainfall.

"We get swallowed up by the illusion that unless we can find a place to belong, we are going to be all alone in the world."

"Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8" is a heartwarming read that encourages us to see the individual behind neurological differences. Naoki Higashida's insights offer a deeper understanding of his world and shed light on the diverse experiences of those with autism. This book is a testament to human resilience and a powerful call for empathy and acceptance in a world that sometimes overlooks the voices that deserve to be heard.

What sets this book apart is its connection to the Japanese concept of "Nana korobi ya oki" - Seven falls, Eight?getting?up), representing resilience in the face of adversity. Naoki's resilience echoes the spirit of the Daruma dolls, symbolizing the unwavering determination to overcome challenges. This concept reinforces the book's central message: the human spirit's ability to triumph over adversity and the universal quest for belonging.

The meaning behind the proverb: Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8 Nana korobi ya oki, 七転び八起 -

A Japanese Concept of Resilience

In Japanese culture, you'll come across the phrase "Nana korobi ya oki," visually represented as 七転び八起 in kanji characters. This phrase goes beyond mere words; it encapsulates a profound philosophy centered on unwavering resilience, symbolizing the ability to rise after falling, even in the face of adversity.

"Nana korobi ya oki" vividly illustrates life's ups and downs, like a warrior enduring seven falls—symbolizing failures or challenges. Yet, with each tumble, they rise undeterred. On the eighth try, victory is won, a powerful testament to their refusal to give up.

Daruma-san and the Daruma dolls

Daruma-san, inspired by Bodhidharma, Zen Buddhism's founder, embodies perseverance. This legendary figure meditated so intensely for nine years that his legs atrophied. The Daruma doll symbolizes his unwavering determination.

In essence, "Nana korobi ya oki," Daruma-san, and the Daruma dolls convey a universal message: life includes falls and setbacks, but true character shows in rising every time until victory. These ideas celebrate resilience and unwavering perseverance, inspiring people worldwide.

Conclusion

I highly recommend "Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8" by Naoki Higashida for parents of neurodiverse children, special needs teachers, and anyone interested in neurodiversity. As a so-called neurotypical person, this book helped me understand autism in its facets and view the world and society we live in today with different eyes. It made me think and also allowed me to learn something about myself.

My collaborative marketing work with Yasmin K?ser at the Stepping Stone School inspired me to engage with the topic of autism and neurodiversity. For this purpose, I have ordered a series of books that I would like to gradually introduce here on LinkedIn , aiming to help others follow the same path toward becoming a more neurodiverse and open-minded society.

#BookReview #AutismAwareness #Neurodiversity #Inclusion #SteppingStoneSchool #Namibia

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