Elliot has autism and many times Robbie wishes he was dead .
Set in Vermont during in 1899 , the story focuses on Robbie Hewitt , the rambunctious 10 - year - old child of a small town preacher and brother of simple - minded Elliot .
Elliot has autism and many times child wishes Robbie Hewitt was dead .
Set in Vermont during in 1899 , the story focuses on Robbie Hewitt , the rambunctious 10 - year - old child of a small town preacher and brother of simple - minded Elliot .