@article{article_1384021, title={Reflecting an Autistic Character and Her Isolation in Society in Carol Cujec and Peyton Goddard’s Real}, journal={Melius: Journal of Narrative and Language Studies}, volume={1}, pages={19–31}, year={2023}, url={https://izlik.org/JA49JH29EH}, author={Aydın, Merve}, keywords={Real, Carol Cujec, Peyton Goddard, autism, discrimination, youth literature}, abstract={No matter how advanced a society gets, social perceptions on people with disabilities have predominantly kept going on. Considering technological advancements and scientific improvements, the fact remains that the disabled continue to be regarded as different and are still unable to have equal rights in contemporary societies. Being a minority in society means being a distinct subgroup characterized by certain features that distinguish them from the dominant majority group, and the word ‘minority’ often illustrates prejudices in many fields. Inspired by Goddard’s life, Real was written by Carol Cujec and Peyton Goddard. The novel portrays the experiences of Peyton who has struggled to show her existence as a human being and proves to the world that she is ‘intelligent’ although she is unable to speak due to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and despite the challenges she experiences while studying under unequal conditions. In the novel, Charity represents Peyton, and her narrative serves as an inspiration for the disabled. Through Charity, the novel delves into the value of overcoming challenges, working hard and not giving up for others who face similar challenges. Cujec narrates Peyton’s life story for the purpose of making people aware that the disabled experience various troubles in their daily lives. It advocates the importance of empathy and acceptance in society, which makes the book essential in both youth and adult literature.}, number={2}