DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — What began as a mother’s moment of despair has blossomed into a vibrant children’s book series inspiring families across the country.
“Adventures of Neo,” written by Mia Dawson and Brenda Major, is inspired by Dawson's son Neo’s journey with autism. The series combines faith, family and fun to show that every child’s story is worth celebrating.
Dawson told WAND News that the series was born out of a dark time shortly after Neo’s diagnosis.
“My son Neo was diagnosed with autism at the age of three,” Dawson said. “At that time, I didn’t even know what that meant. I was focusing on fixing him, and I needed something to be happy about. That’s how ‘Adventures of Neo’ started — from a place of needing joy."
With the help of a close friend and co-author, the pair launched the first “Adventures of Neo” book in 2015. It was a milestone that Dawson says felt deeply personal.
“I was the girl with the learning disability who struggled in school," she said. "To see my name on that book, I just couldn’t believe it,” she said.
Each story in the four-part series follows Neo through colorful, faith-filled lessons about friendship, kindness, and understanding.
Dawson said they intentionally avoided turning the books into “therapy sessions” but instead opted for uplifting adventures inspired by her son.
“We wanted something fun and exciting,” she said. “Each book teaches something new — there are comprehension questions, a little prayer, and devotion in the back. It’s a fun journey, but it’s also a lesson in joy and faith".
The newest release, The Adventures of Neo: It's My Perfect Purple Birthday Party, holds special meaning for the family.
“Anybody who knows Neo knows he’s obsessed with birthdays,” Dawson laughed. “He loves celebrations, and this one’s about his birthday. We even added an activity book with crossword puzzles, word searches, and cursive writing. We just wanted to make something extra special for him and other kids like him".
Now 16, almost 17, Neo is stepping into the spotlight himself. Dawson shared he is reading to students, signing books, and connecting with fans.
“He’s taking authority for his own business,” she said proudly. “He loves reading to the kids, shaking hands, and taking pictures. It’s a joy to see that this 16-year-old — soon to be 17 — is finding happiness and ownership in his story."
Beyond the books, Neo’s adventures continue at I-55 Stables and Arena, where he rides his horse, Cannon.
“They’ve done wonderfully with Neo,” Dawson said. “He’s learning new things, taking care of his horse, and even preparing for shows. Cannon means a lot to him — they have a special bond”.
When asked what message she hopes readers take away, Dawson’s answer is simple: joy.
“Because Neo is joy,” she said.
The “Adventures of Neo” series — including It's My Perfect Purple Birthday Party and the new companion activity book — is available on AdventuresOfNeo.com, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.
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