Bangor Teacher Releases New Book on Neurodiversity
Author Rachel Ortiz writes a children's book inspired by her experience raising a son with autism.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Special Needs
John Bapst Memorial High School teacher Rachel Ortiz has published a new children's book titled The Adventures of Pip Quilliam: A Prickly Kind Of Brave. The book explores themes of acceptance, individuality, and belonging.
Why it matters
The author developed the narrative to share insights gained from her personal experience raising a son with autism. The book aims to provide readers with a meaningful perspective on embracing differences.
The book is published by Christian Faith Publishing, Inc. and is available on platforms including Amazon, Google Play, iTunes, and Barnes & Noble.
The players
Rachel Ortiz
She is an educator currently teaching at John Bapst Memorial High School in Bangor.
The details
Rachel Ortiz spent five years writing and refining the story after the narrative concept originated during a walk in the woods with her son six years ago. The publication reflects her dedication to themes of inclusion for children.
Timeline
Six years ago, the author went for a walk in the woods with her son.
Five years ago, the author began writing and rewriting ideas for the book.
Culture Shift
This release aligns with the broader societal shift toward inclusive storytelling that validates the diverse experiences of children on the autism spectrum. It moves beyond clinical literature to offer narrative-driven support for families seeking representation.
Local families and educators can now access the book across multiple digital and retail platforms for use in classrooms or at home. The pricing tiers allow readers to choose between cost-effective e-book options or physical editions.
The takeaway
Authors who draw from personal life experiences often create content that resonates deeply with families facing similar challenges. Readers can implement these lessons on acceptance by incorporating inclusive stories into their regular reading routines.
Further reading
Learn more about resources for families by visiting the Special Needs section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 101.9 The Rock.
