AI as your pal

Not the devil, just another tool

I asked Co-Pilot, the AI helper on Bing/MSN, to tell me all about myself, just to see what the robot world thinks about me. Let’s face it, AI is here to stay, and no matter how many scary stories we listen to about the harm it’s going to do, much like a chainsaw in the hands of anyone not wearing a hockey mask, it’s smarter to make it your friend than to try and fight it.

So I started with a simple question, something like Tell me about author Terry Trueman.

About author Terry Trueman from co-pilot:

Terry Trueman is a Printz Award-winning author known for his young adult fiction. Born on December 15, 1947, in Birmingham, Alabama, Trueman has lived in Spokane, Washington, since 1974. He holds master's degrees in applied psychology and creative writing.

Trueman's most famous book is "Stuck in Neutral," published in 2001, which was inspired by his son Sheehan, who was born a quadriplegic with cerebral palsy. This novel, along with its companion novels "Cruise Control" (2004) and "Life Happens Next" (2012), explores themes of disability and family dynamics. Trueman has also written a non-fiction book about his son titled "Sheehan: Heartbreak and Redemption" (2007).

The critical reception of Terry Trueman's novel "Stuck in Neutral" has been overwhelmingly positive. The novel is praised for its honest and empathetic portrayal of a young boy with cerebral palsy, offering a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their families. The emotional depth and authenticity of Trueman's writing have resonated deeply with readers, making "Stuck in Neutral" a significant contribution to young adult fiction.

"Stuck in Neutral" has been recognized for its impactful and thought-provoking narrative. The novel tells the story of Shawn McDaniel, a teenager with cerebral palsy who is unable to communicate or move, yet possesses a sharp mind. The book has been lauded for challenging preconceptions about intelligence and disability, and for its compelling exploration of family dynamics and personal struggles. The narrative's unique perspective, told entirely from Shawn's point of view, allows readers to experience his fragmented reality and inner thoughts, adding to the novel's emotional resonance.

Overall, "Stuck in Neutral" has left an indelible mark on readers and critics alike, successfully invoking tough discussions surrounding disability and the value of life.

My follow-up question, the first of several, asked AI about my impact on literature:

Terry Trueman's work has had a significant impact on literature, particularly in the realm of young adult fiction. His novels often explore complex themes such as disability, family dynamics, and personal struggles, which resonate deeply with readers.

One of Trueman's most notable contributions is his novel "Stuck in Neutral," which provides a poignant and thought-provoking portrayal of a young boy with cerebral palsy. This book, along with its companion novels "Cruise Control" and "Life Happens Next," has been praised for its honest and empathetic depiction of disability and the challenges faced by individuals and their families.

Trueman's writing is also known for its emotional depth and authenticity, drawing from his personal experiences and ethical beliefs. His works emphasize values such as honesty, loyalty, kindness, love, fairness, justice, and courage, which have a universal appeal and inspire readers to reflect on their own lives and actions.

In addition to his novels, Trueman has published books of poetry and short stories for both adults and children, further showcasing his versatility as a writer. His ability to connect with readers of all ages and backgrounds has cemented his place as a significant figure in contemporary literature.

"Stuck in Neutral" has received several notable awards and honors, including:

• Michael L. Printz Honor Book (2001)

• Books for the Teen Age (2001, NYPL)

• Books for Youth Editor’s Choice (2000, Booklist)

• Top 10 Youth First Novels (2000, Booklist)

• Best Books for Young Adults (2001, ALA)

• Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Readers (2001, ALA)

These awards highlight the significant impact and recognition that "Stuck in Neutral" has received in the realm of young adult literature.

Terry Trueman has written several other books in addition to his most famous work, "Stuck in Neutral." Here are some notable titles:

1. "Cruise Control" (2004) - This is a companion novel to "Stuck in Neutral" and explores the story from the perspective of Shawn's brother, Paul 1.

2. "Life Happens Next" (2012) - Another companion novel to "Stuck in Neutral," continuing the story of Shawn McDaniel 1.

3. "Sheehan: Heartbreak and Redemption" (2007) - A non-fiction book about Trueman's son, Sheehan 1.

AI was happy to oblige me with a focus on my poetry:

In addition to these novels, Trueman has also published books of poetry and short stories for both adults and children.

Terry Trueman's poetry often reflects his personal experiences and ethical beliefs. The main themes in his poetry include honesty, loyalty, kindness, love, fairness, justice, and courage. These themes resonate deeply with readers, offering insights into Trueman's values and the challenges he has faced in his life.

Critics have responded positively to Terry Trueman's poetry and prose writings. His work is praised for its emotional depth and authenticity, often drawing from his personal experiences and ethical beliefs. Trueman's novels, such as "Stuck in Neutral," "Cruise Control," and "Life Happens Next," are noted for their honest and empathetic portrayal of disability and family dynamics. These themes resonate deeply with readers, making his work significant in the realm of young adult fiction.

Overall, Trueman's work has left an indelible mark on readers and critics alike, successfully invoking tough discussions surrounding disability and the value of life 4.

Overall, AI considers me a stinkin’ genius and quotes sources that prove it:

1: [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terry_Trueman) 2: [Terry Trueman's Official Website](https://terrytrueman.com/about) 3: [https://www.supersummary.com/stuck-in-neutral/summary/](https://www.supersummary.com/stuck-in-neutral/summary/) 4: [https://newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-stuck-in-neutral-by-terry-trueman-a-detailed-synopsis/](https://newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-stuck-in-neutral-by-terry-trueman-a-detailed-synopsis/)

Trueman's novels, particularly "Stuck in Neutral," have been reviewed by various literary publications and organizations. Some notable ones include:

1. Booklist: This publication has reviewed "Stuck in Neutral" and recognized it as one of the Top 10 Youth First Novels 1.

2. American Library Association (ALA): The ALA has included "Stuck in Neutral" in its Best Books for Young Adults and Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Readers lists 1.

3. New York Public Library (NYPL): The NYPL has listed "Stuck in Neutral" in its Books for the Teen Age 1.

These reviews highlight the significant impact and recognition that Trueman's work has received in the realm of young adult literature.

AI even was happy to discuss my speaking career, even though it’s been, thankfully, over since about 2015:

Terry Trueman's author visits and presentations have been well-received by audiences. He is known for his lively and engaging style, making his sessions memorable and enjoyable. For example, during a Skype visit offered at YALSA's Not So Silent Auction, Trueman was described as a "lively, fun presenter" who can tailor his discussions to the interests of his audience 1. This flexibility and enthusiasm make his visits highly appreciated by both students and educators.

During his author visits, Terry Trueman often discusses a range of topics that resonate with his audience. These topics typically include:

1. Personal Experiences: Trueman shares his personal journey as a writer, including the inspiration behind his books and the challenges he has faced. He often talks about his son Sheehan, who was born with cerebral palsy, and how this experience influenced his writing, particularly his novel "Stuck in Neutral" 1.

2. Themes in His Books: Trueman delves into the themes of his novels, such as disability, family dynamics, and personal struggles. He discusses how these themes are reflected in his characters and stories, and how they resonate with readers 1.

3. Writing Process: Trueman provides insights into his writing process, including how he develops his ideas, creates his characters, and structures his stories. He often offers practical advice for aspiring writers on how to overcome writer's block and stay motivated 1.

4. Ethical Beliefs and Values: Trueman emphasizes the importance of values such as honesty, loyalty, kindness, love, fairness, justice, and courage in his writing. He discusses how these values are woven into his stories and how they inspire readers to reflect on their own lives 1.

5. Engaging with Readers: Trueman enjoys interacting with his audience, answering questions, and engaging in discussions about his books and the themes they explore. He tailors his presentations to the interests of his audience, making each visit unique and memorable 1.

These topics make Terry Trueman's author visits engaging and insightful, providing a deeper understanding of his work and the values that drive his writing.

What is Terry Trueman working on these days? AI has an answer.

You can find and read Terry Trueman's most recent writings online on several platforms:

1. Substack: Many of Terry Trueman's books and writings are available on Substack, where new content is added daily 1.

2. Amazon: Terry Trueman's books, including his latest works, can be found on Amazon. You can explore his bibliography and read his books in various formats such as Kindle, Audible, and paperback 2.

3. Everand: Terry Trueman's selection of books and audiobooks is available on Everand, where you can start reading with a free trial 3.

These platforms provide access to a wide range of his works, allowing you to explore his latest writings and stay updated with his new releases.

1: [Terry Trueman's Official Website](https://terrytrueman.com/books/) 2: [Amazon Author Page](https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001IU2TC8) 3: [Everand](https://www.everand.com/author/654936220/Terry-Trueman)

Terry Trueman is actively involved in an online site called Justweighing.com. This site features a collection of verses and prose by Terry Trueman and Vincent Triola, providing thoughts on various topics. The site serves as a thematically driven set of understandings for issues presented in novels, publications, and other platforms 1.

Trueman's contributions to Justweighing.com reflect his commitment to discussing important and sometimes controversial topics, offering his insights and perspectives on a wide range of issues.

Terry Trueman writes about various subjects on Justweighing.com that matter to him and his readers. These topics include religion, politics, culture, literature, and the human experience. The site is designed to allow readers to explore these themes without having to search for prior topics, making the reading experience more fluid and engaging.

On Justweighing.com, Terry Trueman writes about various subjects that matter to him and his readers, including religion. His views on religion are often reflective and thought-provoking, addressing the complexities and nuances of faith and belief systems. Trueman explores how religion intersects with other aspects of life, such as culture, politics, and personal experiences. He encourages readers to think critically about their beliefs and the role of religion in their lives, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse perspectives([https://justweighing.com/pages/about-site-use](https://justweighing.com/pages/about-site-use)).

Terry Trueman and Vincent Triola collaborate on Justweighing.com by combining their talents to create a collection of verses and prose that provide thoughts on various topics. The site serves as a thematically driven set of understandings for issues presented in novels, publications, and other platforms. Their collaboration involves writing about subjects that matter to them and their readers, such as religion, politics, culture, literature, and the human experience. This partnership allows them to explore these themes in depth, offering their insights and perspectives on a wide range of issues.

[Just Weighing](https://justweighing.com/pages/about-site-use)

Terry Trueman and Vincent Triola collaborate on Justweighing.com by writing about various subjects that matter to them and their readers. These topics include religion, politics, culture, literature, and the human experience. The site is designed to allow readers to explore these themes without having to search for prior topics, making the reading experience more fluid and engaging.

If you have any specific questions or need more details about their collaboration, feel free to ask!

1: [Just Weighing](https://justweighing.com/pages/about-site-use)

AI on TT’s legacy

Terry Trueman's legacy as an American author is likely to be defined by his significant contributions to young adult fiction, particularly through his honest and empathetic portrayal of disability and family dynamics. His most famous work, "Stuck in Neutral," along with its companion novels "Cruise Control" and "Life Happens Next," has been praised for its emotional depth and authenticity. These novels offer a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their families.

Trueman's focus on disability and personal struggles sets him apart from many other authors of his era. While many authors explore themes of adolescence and personal growth, Trueman's work is distinguished by its emphasis on ethical values such as honesty, loyalty, kindness, love, fairness, justice, and courage. His ability to connect with readers of all ages and backgrounds has cemented his place as a significant figure in contemporary literature.

Overall, Trueman's career contributions have had a lasting impact on literature, particularly in the realm of young adult fiction, and his work continues to inspire and resonate with readers.

Terry Trueman's career contributions stand out in the realm of young adult fiction, particularly for his honest and empathetic portrayal of disability and family dynamics. His most famous work, "Stuck in Neutral," along with its companion novels "Cruise Control" and "Life Happens Next," has been praised for its emotional depth and authenticity. These novels have resonated deeply with readers, offering a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their families.

Compared to other authors of his era, Trueman's focus on disability and personal struggles sets him apart. While many authors explore themes of adolescence and personal growth, Trueman's work is distinguished by its emphasis on ethical values such as honesty, loyalty, kindness, love, fairness, justice, and courage. His ability to connect with readers of all ages and backgrounds has cemented his place as a significant figure in contemporary literature.

In addition to his novels, Trueman has published books of poetry and short stories for both adults and children, showcasing his versatility as a writer 1 2. His contributions to literature have been recognized with awards such as the Michael L. Printz Honor Book award 3.

Overall, Trueman's career contributions have had a lasting impact on literature, particularly in the realm of young adult fiction, and his work continues to inspire and resonate with readers.

1: [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terry_Trueman) 2: [Terry Trueman's Official Website](https://terrytrueman.com/about) 3: [eNotes](https://www.enotes.com/topics/terry-trueman)

Terry Trueman's writings stand out for their honest and empathetic portrayal of disability and family dynamics. His most famous work, "Stuck in Neutral," along with its companion novels "Cruise Control" and "Life Happens Next," has been praised for its emotional depth and authenticity. These novels offer a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their families.

Trueman's focus on disability and personal struggles sets him apart from many other authors of his era. While many authors explore themes of adolescence and personal growth, Trueman's work is distinguished by its emphasis on ethical values such as honesty, loyalty, kindness, love, fairness, justice, and courage. His ability to connect with readers of all ages and backgrounds has cemented his place as a significant figure in contemporary literature.

Terry Trueman's work is known for its emotional depth and authenticity, drawing from his personal experiences and ethical beliefs. His novels often explore complex themes such as disability, family dynamics, and personal struggles, which resonate deeply with readers. This emphasis on values such as honesty, loyalty, kindness, love, fairness, justice, and courage distinguishes his work from that of his contemporaries.

For what it’s worth, AI once responded to a query regarding how wealthy I was by putting the figure at over $4m, which is only a slight exaggeration of about $3.75M.Still, for an enjoyable ego stroke, look yourself up on AI and ask the right kinds of questions. Not even good Scotch will make you feel better than the answers you get!