Happiness Falls by Angie Kim

A Korean-American family must deal with something no one wants to face - dad didn't come home from the park and his disabled son did emotionally overwrought. To make matters worse Eugene is autistic and also has a rare disorder that doesn't allow him to communicate at all. 20 year old twins Mia and John begin to unravel their dad's papers and computer to try to figure out what happened only to discover he was working on a secret project "The Happiness Quotient" trying to define happiness. Within the coded notes may be the truth but the truth may not be what they expect nor want. The police have damaging video from the park and Eugene's outburst tirade may be used to charge him with hurting his dad. The family must now work to clear Eugene and shine a light on this hidden side of their dad. A family drama caught up mystery as well as a look at the importance and variety of communication. I was fascinated by Eugene, both his condition and interactions with the family and was less interested in the side line project on happiness. Angie Kim shares much information on the Angelman Syndrome, autism and new ways of communicating that will interest a wide variety of readers. 4 1/2 stars