For Ryan Northup of Toledo, self-publishing three novels in the last two years is something he is quite proud of.
Mr. Northup’s ability to speak — much less write with confidence — is an accomplishment his family is proud of.
“For someone with mild autism that struggled with talking when he was little, I’m so amazed at what he’s accomplished on his own,” said Joy Fuller-Northup, Mr. Northup’s mother. ”We didn’t even know he was writing a book during college.”
The young man, a 2018 graduate of Springfield High School, was diagnosed with autism when he was young. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in social work from Spring Arbor University in Spring Arbor, Mich., in 2022. He works in the deli at Kazmaier’s Market in Perrysburg.
Mr. Northup says he writes in first person because it is easier. His second novel, Missing My Friend, is probably the most personal and introspective of his books, he explained.
The book follows two friends, Cory and Gem, who are on the autism spectrum. They are trying to deal with the loss of their friend, Logan, who died in a car accident.