Autism

Hoang challenges stereotypical notions of people with autism through Stella’s point of view. While traditionally viewed as a disability, Hoang presents another viewpoint; it is a variation of the way in which one experiences the world. This idea is highlighted by Stella’s characterization. Although she is highly sensitive to certain things and has obsessive tendencies, none of these present as severe deviations from the neurotypical population. Rather, her sensitivities present more as variations that are present between individuals.

Hoang explores Stella’s sensory sensitivities in an often humorous way, making light of them so that they seem more like a preference rather than part of a disorder. Her sensitivity to taste is explored through her distaste for lamb describing it as “woolly” (20). Michael finds this endearing and teases her about it later, ordering the special and saying “Let’s hope it’s not woolly...