The only positive thing about being sick last week was discovering a new show on Netflix. I couldn’t really concentrate on a book, so I was searching for something new to watch. That’s when I discovered the show Atypical. Between being home during the day and up at night a few times, I’m almost done with season 2!

Atypical is a coming of age story that follows Sam, an 18-year-old on the autistic spectrum as he searches for love and independence. While Sam is on his funny yet emotional journey of self-discovery, the rest of his family must grapple with change in their own lives as they all struggle with the central theme: what does it really mean to be normal?

 

This show is amazing! Not only did I get hooked because of the storyline, but the acting is amazing. Keir Gilchrist, who plays Sam, really portrays his role well. After studying what I did in college, autism amazes me. It comes in so many shapes and sizes and you never know what a child will be capable of. We are a society that loves labels, but that’s just really not possible with autism. Each child is so unique and has other needs. I feel that this show really portrays that well.

Besides following Sam, we basically get to see his own family. They all deal with Sam in different ways and it shows what a diagnosis can do to a family. Sam is becoming more independent and that leaves his family searching for a new way. His sister goes to a new school, the parents have their own issues.

Atypical makes you laugh, cry and just smile. The episodes are 30 minutes long, so it’s something that can easily be watched. I know I will be finishing the second season soon! Hopefully I don’t have to wait to long for the third season!

Have you seen Atypical? What did you think? Also if there are any other Netflix recommendations you can think of, let me know! I like having some extra shows for times I get sick or have a reading slump!