About the book

I have read quite a few books over the years; this feels different, and not just because I wrote it!

It’s at least partly the following:

• autobiography / autism memoir
• theological reflection on autism
• coming-of-age advice book for an autistic teenager
• how-to guide for church leaders wanting to get better at inclusion
• treatise on the importance and value of real churches
• exposé of how discrimination often works in society and how much discrimination there often is against autistic people
• explanation of why autistic people in particular need Jesus, and yet why the church is often so poor at showing Jesus to them.

It’s very personal, sometimes painfully honest, and I am reliably informed that some parts of it are funny too, so that’s good.

Here’s the blurb from the back, which I didn’t write:

What does church feel like if you’re autistic? And how can churches become places where autistic people truly belong?

In Faith, Hope and Autism, John Allister – a Church of England vicar who is also autistic – shares honest stories, practical insights, and heartfelt letters to his younger self. The book opens up a window into the joys and challenges of growing up autistic, discovering faith, and finding a place in the church.

Blending personal experience with down-to-earth guidance, John helps readers understand how autistic people experience the world, why inclusion matters, and what real welcome can look like. This book is for anyone who wants their church to be more open, kind, and full of belonging – whether you’re a church leader, have an autistic friend or family member, or are autistic yourself.

Warm, witty, and deeply human, “Faith, Hope and Autism” is a powerful invitation to see the church – and each other – differently.