Stacked Against the Odds - by Jesse L Horn (Paperback)

About the Book

An autobiography from Jesse L. Horn, an autistic person whose "story will lead families facing autism to hope--hope that those with autism are so much more than a diagnosis. They are capable of discovering life-fulfilling passions and defining for themselves what it is to live with autism. Jesse has gone on to earn international titles in sport stacking with Team USA, is a motivational speaker and ambassador, and has guest-starred on CBS's The Doctors"--Publisher marketing.

Book Synopsis

"Stacked Against the Odds is a story of one family's triumph and victory as they navigate the challenging waters of raising a child with autism. Written in his own words, this inspiring account of Jesse Horn is encouraging and uplifting as Jesse walks us through his darkest times and greatest victories! Jesse and his family's true character are revealed for us as we take a ride with them through their story, giving us all hope and inspiration!"
-Don Teel
President, World Sport Stacking Association

"If you're looking for inspiration on overcoming tough odds, look no further than Jesse Horn's first book Stacked Against the Odds. Jesse's story is an honest and heartwarming account of growing up with autism and the challenges it presents for a family. His accomplishments as a stacker are overshadowed only by the grit and determination he demonstrates in overcoming circumstances that would be overwhelming for most of us. If you need a bright spot to walk towards, read this book."
-Larry Goers
CEO, World Sport Stacking Association

JESSE HORN came into the world a perfectly sweet baby boy, but when he was two years old, things started to change. He wouldn't make eye contact, he wouldn't speak, and his temperament became unpredictable. After seeking a diagnosis, the family's fears were confirmed: Jesse had autism. After two years of Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy, life started changing once again. At the age of nine, a chance encounter with a unique sport would help Jesse discover a passion that would skyrocket his personal growth and allow him to embrace a newfound sense of self-confidence.

His story will lead families facing autism to hope: hope that those with autism are so much more than a diagnosis. They are capable of discovering life-fullfiing passions and defining for themselves what it is to live with autism. Jesse has gone on to earn international titles in Sport Stacking with Team USA, is a motivational speaker and ambassador, and has guest-starred on CBS's The Doctors.

Review Quotes

"Jesse Horn is an extremely intelligent, well spoken, insightful young man. Jesse not only tells his personal story but the story of thousands of individuals who live with autism. He honestly and openly shares the struggles and blessings that come with living with autism. Aunt Lola and Uncle Paul believed in Jesse not because he has autism but because they took the time to understand him. They are the true heroes in Jesse's life.

It is evident that Jesse wants the world to know what is in the hearts of all individuals living with autism:
"We must all be included and accepted...."
"We all need a purpose...."
"We all want to be loved and truly have much love to give back."
"I will never NOT have autism."
"My autism is a part of me, but it does not define me. I define autism."
-Lily Rider
CESA 4
Director of Itinerant Services/Kompas Care
AT/Autism Educational Consultant

"Stacked Against The Odds is a valuable resource to any family who is experiencing the challenges faced by a child who is on the spectrum. Jesse takes a stand for those given an autism diagnosis and shares with us reasons why it isn't the end of the world, leaving the reader feeling hope and having faith in the possibility of brighter days ahead. This heartfelt story is filled with authentic moments that connect the reader to the feelings of joy, sorrow, pain, triumph, defeat, and renewal of spirit, that remind us how precious life is, and that life is now. We each have one special gift, our purpose. I am so happy that Jesse found and embraced his gift as a professional speaker to inspire our world forward. To help us to understand that within us is a 'key' to unlock our passion. That if we listen to the whisper of our heart and follow it, we can each be guided to our own unique gift, giving us the strength and courage to be authentically ourselves. Thank you Jesse for being you, being brave, and for sharing your story!"
-Jacqueline Bambenek
Wellness Coach

"This book was well-written and informative. As I was reading, I laughed a little and cried a lot! Jesse's story is as amazing as he is, and anyone who gets the opportunity to read this will get quite a bit of knowledge about autism. It is definitely an eye-opener! I work with persons with autism and cannot tell you how much I appreciate this book."
-Virginia Daloisio
Retired Educator