Meraki Collective Publishing

"Lights in the Darkness" is an anthology that amplifies the voices of nonspeaking, minimally speaking, and unreliably speaking individuals—collectively known as "nonspeakers." Using letterboards or keyboards, these contributors reveal their inner worlds, transcending traditional communication barriers. Many first connected through Forging Friendships, a weekly online group founded by Nico Segrera and co-led by Evelyn Moldal.

In this collection, essays offer profound insights into the passions, creativity, and emotional depth of nonspeakers. The stories shared challenge misconceptions about their emotional connections, talents, and intellectual capabilities, revealing instead lives full of caring relationships, artistic expression, and relentless determination. Each essay reflects a journey of personal growth, courage, and the pursuit of connection and understanding. Readers are invited to witness the blossoming of individuals who defy expectations and inspire a broader, mutual understanding of the human experience.

“This anthology, written by nonspeaking, neurodivergent youth, is a game-changer. Startlingly fresh, revealing, sophisticated and drop dead beautiful, these unusual works are experiences which will broaden your view of ‘other’ and ‘self.’” —JANET FITCH, WHITE OLEANDER (OPRAH’S BOOK CLUB)

“…profoundly affecting, starkly original and gorgeously rendered stories — I was totally blown away.” —DAVID FRANCIS, STRAY DOG WINTER

“What a truly astonishing collection of voices in this anthology. As one of the essayists said, “Great gifts are given to those with autism.” I laughed, gasped, and mostly couldn’t stop weeping—and I know you will, too.” —MARIE MYUNG-OK LEE, HURT YOU (A NON-NEUROTYPICAL RETELLING OF MICE AND MEN)

“These enthralling essays about living, perceiving, and loving with autism are pierced with lyricism, tension, and heart. It’s so rare to be transported into another way of seeing the world. This anthology is a gift.” —DYLAN LANDIS, RAINEY ROYAL

“Usually, neurodiverse people seem to have things said about them, because other people assume they have nothing to say, or can’t speak for themselves. This anthology of singing writers lays that assumption to rest. It’s a quite remarkable window into their minds, and an invitation for us to open ours.” —RITA WILLIAMS, IF THE CREEK DON’T RISE

“This is a powerful collection of essays, addressing universal themes of communication and community, love and loss, joy and grief, from the profoundly unique perspectives of nonspeaking people. I can’t wait to see what these talented authors do next!” —VIKRAM JASWAL, PH.D., PROFESSOR OF PSYCHOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA