Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins: A Joyful Memoir of a Mother Raising a Son with Down Syndrome

Author:   Patti Smith
Publisher:   Patti Smith
ISBN:  

9798988982395


Pages:   294
Publication Date:   10 December 2025
Format:   Paperback
Availability:   Available To Order   Availability explained
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Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins: A Joyful Memoir of a Mother Raising a Son with Down Syndrome


Overview

Sometimes our best teachers are the ones we least expect. When Patti Smith's first child was born with Down syndrome, her world shifted overnight. What began as fear and uncertainty became a lifelong education in love, patience, and the power of perspective. Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins is the heartwarming true story of how one remarkable son became his mother's greatest teacher. Told through 24 unforgettable ""lessons,"" this deeply moving narrative reveals how life's biggest challenges can become our most profound teachers. From moments of heartbreak to bursts of humor and joy, Patti shares how her son Christopher-affectionately known as ""Professor Higgins""-transformed her understanding of success, purpose, and unconditional love. More than a parenting guide, this is an invitation to see the beauty in imperfection and the grace in letting go. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or anyone seeking inspiration in the face of life's detours, Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins will lift your heart, open your mind, and remind you that the unexpected may be your greatest gift. This book addresses the emotional exhaustion and self-doubt many parents experience when facing unexpected life challenges-particularly raising a child with unique needs. It gently replaces fear, guilt, and the need for control with peace, perspective, and self-compassion. This inspirational memoir is a celebration of resilience, joy, and the limitless lessons love can teach.

Full Product Details

Author:   Patti Smith
Publisher:   Patti Smith
Imprint:   Patti Smith
Dimensions:   Width: 14.00cm , Height: 1.70cm , Length: 21.60cm
Weight:   0.340kg
ISBN:  

9798988982395


Pages:   294
Publication Date:   10 December 2025
Audience:   General/trade ,  General
Format:   Paperback
Publisher's Status:   Active
Availability:   Available To Order   Availability explained
We have confirmation that this item is in stock with the supplier. It will be ordered in for you and dispatched immediately.

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Author Information

Patti Smith retired in Southern Utah after practicing law in California for 30 years. Her memoir shares funny and profound stories highlighting her inspirational journey of unexpected learning from her oldest child, Chris Higgins who was born with Down syndrome. Patti enjoys traveling and spending time with her six exceptional children, including Christopher, whom she honors as her master teacher.Patti was honored to be awarded the prestigious Olive Woolley Burt Award for Creative Writing in the New Voices category.Patti is dedicated to learning and helping others. In fact she is donating hundreds of books to parents of new babies with Down syndrome to share her belief that the life of a person with this diagnosis is one to cherish and celebrate.Additionally, a portion of each book's proceeds are donated to Rod's Heroes, a non-profit organization which facilitates the adoption of vulnerable children like those with Down syndrome from orphanages in third world countries.

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