Mitch Potter

Mitch Potter (1954-2018) was diagnosed with autism as an adult and wrote Smoking Gun from an autistic person’s point of view. While there are many novels written about individuals with autism, few are written by someone who is autistic. Mitch'’s unique perspective shows how an autistic character's full pallet of strengths and weaknesses plays out in this fast-paced thriller.

Mitch's diagnosis gave him a deeper understanding and appreciation of his autistic strengths as well as tools to improve his personal relationships. He enjoyed speaking engagements at Autism conferences, providing examples of how others could use individual autistic strengths successfully in the workforce. All profits from Smoking Gun sales will be donated to Autism Society of Minnesota.

Mitch was also passionate about making the world a better place. One of his concerns and issues was the recent resurgence of the tobacco industry. The plot of Smoking Gun reflects his desire to decrease and eliminate use of harmful tobacco, vaping and e-cigarette products.

Mitch was born in Rockford, Illinois, but he spent most of his life working and raising a family in Minnesota. His vast work experiences included: English teacher, aquatic director, journalist, editor, consultant and website director, but Mitch was always a writer. He began writing this novel a few years ago while working full time, but when he retired he dedicated time to write every day.

Mitch finished his final draft of Smoking Gun a few weeks before he died of lymphoma in March 2018. As you read Smoking Gun you will hear Mitch’s voice, wit and keen sense of humor, a fitting memorial to and acknowledgment of his passion for writing.