Autism Digest Interview with Ryne Douglas Pearson

Unraveling the Code: An Interview on Simple Simon, Neurodiversity, and More

Autism Digest Interview with Ryne Douglas Pearson

Today, we have the privilege of sitting down with Ryne Douglas Pearson, the acclaimed author behind Simple Simon, a gripping 1996 thriller that inspired the 1998 Hollywood film Mercury Rising, starring Bruce Willis. The novel follows FBI agent Art Jefferson as he risks everything to protect Simon Lynch, a 16-year-old autistic savant who unwittingly cracks a top-secret National Security Agency code, making him a target for a ruthless assassin. In this interview, we’ll dive into the origins of Simple Simon, explore the portrayal of neurodiversity in Hollywood, and hear Pearson’s insights on supporting autistic individuals with food aversions. As a novelist, screenwriter, and YouTube cooking show host, Pearson brings a unique perspective to both storytelling and real-world challenges faced by the neurodiverse community.

The Genesis of Simple Simon: Where It All Began

Ryne Douglas Pearson’s Simple Simon is a fast-paced thriller that hooked readers from its first page and caught the attention of director Ron Howard, who saw its potential as a cinematic blockbuster. But where did the idea for this high-stakes story come from? Pearson shares that the concept was sparked by an intriguing urban legend: the notion that secret military intelligence codes were occasionally hidden in puzzle magazines to test whether civilians could crack them. This idea fascinated Pearson, leading him to craft a narrative around a brilliant yet vulnerable protagonist, Simon Lynch, whose extraordinary puzzle-solving abilities thrust him into a dangerous world of espionage and betrayal.

“I wanted to create a character who was both exceptional and misunderstood,” Pearson explains. “Simon’s autism and savant abilities made him the perfect lens to explore themes of brilliance, vulnerability, and the human cost of secrets.” The story’s tension lies not only in the action-packed plot but also in the emotional bond that forms between Simon and Art Jefferson, the FBI agent who becomes his protector. Pearson’s ability to weave intricate plotlines with compelling characters made Simple Simon a standout, and its adaptation into Mercury Rising brought Simon’s story to a global audience.

Pearson’s inspiration also drew from his desire to highlight the humanity of neurodiverse individuals. By placing an autistic teenager at the heart of a thriller, he challenged conventional narratives and aimed to showcase the extraordinary potential within those who think differently. “Simon isn’t just a plot device,” Pearson says. “He’s a person with depth, and I wanted readers to see that.” This focus on authenticity and empathy set Simple Simon apart in the thriller genre, earning praise for its engaging storytelling and thought-provoking themes.

Neurodiversity in Hollywood: Progress and Pitfalls

The portrayal of autism in Mercury Rising has sparked both praise and criticism. While some lauded the film for its emotional sincerity and sensitive depiction of autism, others, including autistic advocates, felt it leaned on stereotypes, portraying Simon as a plot device rather than a fully realized character. Pearson acknowledges the challenges of representing neurodiversity in Hollywood, where commercial pressures often prioritize action over nuance.

“When Simple Simon was adapted into Mercury Rising, some elements were simplified to fit the action-thriller mold,” Pearson admits. “The book allowed for more exploration of Simon’s inner world, but films often have to condense those complexities.” In the novel, Simon is 16, allowing for a deeper exploration of his abilities and struggles, whereas the film ages him down to nine, played by Miko Hughes, which some critics argued reinforced a more stereotypical portrayal of autism.

Pearson is optimistic about the evolving landscape of neurodiversity in media. He points to the growing presence of #OwnVoices narratives, where autistic authors and creators tell their own stories, as a step toward more authentic representation. “Books like The Reason I Jump by Naoki Higashida or The Autistic Brain by Temple Grandin show how powerful firsthand perspectives can be,” he notes. He also highlights the need for Hollywood to amplify autistic voices, citing advocates like Haley Moss, who emphasize the importance of diverse, empowering portrayals.

However, Pearson is candid about the limitations of Mercury Rising. “The film leaned heavily on the ‘savant’ trope, which can overshadow the broader spectrum of autism,” he says. “If I were writing Simple Simon today, I’d consult more directly with autistic individuals to ensure Simon’s experiences felt even more authentic.” He encourages aspiring writers and filmmakers to engage with the neurodiverse community to create stories that resonate and avoid reductive stereotypes.

Addressing Food Aversions in Autistic Individuals: Pearson’s Insights

Beyond his work as an author, Pearson is also the host of the YouTube cooking show

Cooking With Ry, where he shares recipes focused on outdoor cooking, grilling, and barbecue. His culinary expertise offers a unique perspective on a common challenge for autistic individuals: food aversions. Sensory sensitivities, a hallmark of autism for many, can make certain textures, smells, or tastes overwhelming, leading to restricted diets or mealtime stress. Pearson shares practical tips for supporting autistic individuals with food aversions, drawing from both research and community insights.

“Food aversions often stem from sensory processing differences,” Pearson explains. “For someone like Simon, a new food might feel like an assault on the senses.” He suggests the following strategies for parents, caregivers, or individuals themselves:

1. Introduce Foods Gradually: Start with small, non-threatening portions of new foods alongside familiar ones. “Don’t force it,” Pearson advises. “Let curiosity develop naturally.” Gradual exposure can help desensitize sensory aversions over time.

   
   

2. Respect Sensory Preferences: Pay attention to specific triggers, such as crunchy textures or strong smells. “If an autistic person avoids certain foods, it’s not defiance—it’s their brain processing the sensory input differently,” he says. Offering alternatives with similar nutritional value can maintain a balanced diet.

   
   

3. Make It Fun and Familiar: Incorporate preferred flavors or presentations. For example, blending vegetables into a favorite smoothie or shaping foods into fun designs can reduce anxiety. Pearson shares, “On Cooking With Ry, I’ve experimented with kid-friendly recipes that could work for autistic individuals—think simple, predictable flavors with a fun twist.”

   
   

4. Involve Them in Cooking: Engaging autistic individuals in the cooking process can build comfort with food. “Let them choose ingredients or stir something,” Pearson suggests. “It gives a sense of control, which is empowering.” This approach aligns with advice from autistic advocates like Donna Williams, who emphasize the value of autonomy in managing sensory challenges.

   
   

Pearson emphasizes patience and empathy, noting that food aversions are a valid part of many autistic individuals’ experiences. “It’s not about ‘fixing’ them—it’s about meeting them where they are,” he says. His insights reflect a broader commitment to understanding neurodiversity, both in his writing and personal endeavors.

Connect with Ryne Douglas Pearson

Ryne Douglas Pearson continues to captivate audiences with his novels, screenplays, and culinary creations. To explore more of his work, check out his books, including Simple Simon, Cloudburst, and Top Ten, available on Amazon. Fans can also follow his culinary adventures on his YouTube channel, Cooking With Ry, at youtube.com/@CookingWithRy.

For updates on his latest projects, connect with him on social media:

• X: @Ryne_D_Pearson

• Facebook: Ryne Douglas Pearson

Ryne Douglas Pearson’s Simple Simon is more than a thriller—it’s a story that challenges perceptions and celebrates the extraordinary abilities of neurodiverse individuals. Through his thoughtful storytelling and real-world insights, Pearson bridges the gap between fiction and reality, offering a nuanced perspective on autism, representation, and inclusion. Whether you’re drawn to the high-stakes drama of Mercury Rising, inspired by his advocacy for authentic portrayals, or curious about his tips for navigating food aversions, Pearson’s work invites us to see the world through a more empathetic lens. As he continues to write, cook, and connect with audiences, one thing is clear: Ryne Douglas Pearson is a storyteller who leaves a lasting impact, both on the page and beyond.