With the Light

With the Light: Raising an Autistic Child (Hikari to Tomo ni...: Jiheishōji o Kakaete) is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Keiko Tobe. It was serialized in the monthly magazine For Mrs. from 2000 until the author's death in 2010. The series is notable for its sensitive portrayal of autism and has been praised for raising awareness about the condition in Japan and other countries.

Plot

The story follows the life of Sachiko Azuma, a mother who discovers that her son, Hikaru, is autistic. The narrative spans several years, beginning with Hikaru's diagnosis and continuing through his schooling. Sachiko faces various challenges and societal pressures while advocating for her son's needs and acceptance in a society that lacks understanding of autism. The manga explores themes of love, perseverance, and the struggles and triumphs of raising a child with autism.

Themes and Reception

With the Light has been lauded for its realistic depiction of the challenges faced by families living with autism. It addresses the lack of public awareness and support systems, the stigma attached to mental health issues in Japan, and the educational hurdles children with autism face. The series has contributed significantly to the conversation about autism and disability rights, making it an important work in the genre of social issues manga.

Critics and readers alike have praised the series for its emotional depth and educational value. It has been recognized as a pioneering work in the portrayal of autistic individuals in Japanese media, offering both insight and empathy towards the condition.

Publication

The manga was serialized in For Mrs. magazine and collected into several tankōbon volumes by Akita Shoten. After Keiko Tobe's death, the series was left incomplete, but it remains a significant contribution to manga and to the understanding of autism in popular culture.

Legacy

With the Light has inspired adaptations and discussions worldwide. Its impact extends beyond entertainment, serving as a resource for families affected by autism and for individuals seeking to understand the condition better. The series has also been used in educational settings to promote empathy and awareness among students and professionals.

See Also

• Autism in popular culture
• Japanese manga
• Social issues in manga