We are The Neema Society (www.theneemasociety.com) Based in Haslemere and formed 25 years ago, we support street children and children with autism in Kenya.

My first book had the rather dramatic title “I’m Autistic! Get Me Out of Here. My Christian Journey The Autistic Spectrum.” That one was all about my life and faith. This new book you are about to read. It’s about enthusiasm the rocket fuel for a joyful life. Think of it as spiritual espresso, but without the jitters. I know from experience that my book in this format with short chapters will appeal to those with and those without autism. It can be read from the beginning of the book or you can open it anywhere and read.

Profit on all of my books I write will go to helping Street Children through Footsteps International, and autistic children, by providing places for them at the Pagani Special Needs School to help them develop. 

My new book "Embracing Faith With Enthusiasm"  aims to help people get to get the best out of life by showing enthusiasm wherever they are.

About Me

I was born in Muswell Hill in 1947 and lived with my parents and brother who was ten years older than me. I did not begin speaking until the age of four, and even then, my communication was very different from that of other children. Up until the age of seven, my responses could best be described as a cross between an enthusiastic bird and Enid Blyton’s Noddy. I would nod vigorously or flap my arms as if preparing for take-off. Although amusing to look back on, these behaviours were often misunderstood, especially in an era when autism was rarely recognised and almost never supported. Children like me were often labelled lazy, naughty, or unintelligent, rather than seen as needing understanding or tailored guidance. I became a Christian through my Sunday School teacher, Miss Tucker, a retired missionary who inspired me with her stories about her mission work in China. She seemed to understand me and supported me as I set off on the path of fundraising for Methodist missionaries. 

My memoir I’m Autistic! Get Me Out Of Here – My Christian Journey On The Autistic Spectrum, depicts in great detail a world where neurodiversity went largely unrecognised. I portray my childhood with honesty and clarity, showing both the difficulties I faced and the resilience I learned. Often misunderstood by teachers and classmates. I found comfort in things that made sense to me: furniture and antiques and what began as an interest became a source of stability and structure, offering order and beauty in a world that offered little understanding.

Through writing the book, it’s been so encouraging to know that my story resonates with so many others, who like me have felt out of place or longed to be understood. Many people misinterpret autistic traits such as emotional expression, social reserve, or literal communication. My book aims to bridge that gap, helping church communities and wider society respond with empathy, clarity, and welcome. My message is simple: understanding is not just helpful – it is the first step toward genuine inclusion and lasting change.
 

My story is one of struggle and triumph, but also a bridge for neurotypical readers, including those in church communities, who want to better understand and welcome autistic individuals. I show how simple changes – sensory-aware environments, predictable routines, and respectful communication – can transform relationships and create spaces where autistic people feel truly included.
 

Other

I’m Autistic! Get Me Out Of Here is available to purchase online. All proceeds for the book will be donated by the author to The Neema Society.
 
Robert Noble lives in Haslemere, Surrey and attends St Stephen's Church. He is married with two children and has five grandchildren.