BOOK NOTES.

Byline: The Register-Guard

Halsey author honored by Autism Society

Halsey writer Kristi Sakai received the Autism Society of America's Outstanding Literary Work of the Year Award for her book ``Finding Our Way: Practical Solutions for Creating a Supportive Home and Community for the Asperger Syndrome Family.''

Sakai, who travels and speaks about autism, is the mother of three children - Tom, Kito and Kaede - who have Asperger syndrome.

She, her husband and children live on a farm in Halsey. She serves on the board of directors of Mighty Oaks Children's Therapy Center.

Sakai will receive her award July 13 at the Autism Society of America's 37th annual conference in Providence, R.I.

Ann Herrick to sign books Monday in Monmouth

Eugene author Ann Herrick will answer questions and sign copies of her newest young adult novel, "Walk Softly and Watch Out for Bigfoot," from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Monday in the Werner University Center on the campus of Western Oregon University in Monmouth.

Out of Town

WEDNESDAY

Mark Bowden - The author of ``Black Hawk Down'' discusses his new book, ``Guests of the Ayatollah,'' about the 1979 Iran hostage crisis, 7:30 p.m., Powell's City of Books, 1005 W. Burnside, Portland. [phone].