Abstract

This hands-on workbook demystifies the world of work in order to help teenagers with Asperger syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder) feel confident in their ability to be successful at their studies and get a job.

Each chapter talks the teen through a different element of employment, including the benefits of having a job, why education is important, how to write a resume and succeed at job interviews, and the advantages and disadvantages of autism in the workplace. A variety of different industries and jobs are explored to encourage teens to begin to think about careers that might appeal to them and suit their skills and interests.

Full of practical information, engaging activities, funny illustrations and inspiring personal stories, this book gives Asperteens a positive image of what people on the autism spectrum can achieve and is an essential career guidance aid for parents and teachers working with young adults.

Jeanette Purkis has a Master's degree in Fine Arts from RMIT University and works for the Australian Public Service as a policy adviser. Jeanette recently received an Excellence Award from the CEO of her department for promoting inclusion and advocating for disability. She is a frequent speaker at autism conferences and she facilitates a support group for women on the autism spectrum. Jeanette has a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome and is the author of the autobiography Finding a Different Kind of Normal, also published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. She lives in Canberra, Australia. Andrew Hore is a cartoonist and illustrator with a community worker background, who provides community-focused cartooning programs, specialising in mental health and positive goal setting. He has extensive experience in comic strip creation, book illustration for adults and kids, posters, and online cartoons and he lives in Canberra, Australia.
If you're on the spectrum wanting to work, this book is for you! Aspie mentor Jeanette Purkis shares meaningful insights to help you discover your place in today's workforce.
Craig Evans, founder of Autism Hangout and editor of Been There. Done That. Try This!: An Aspie's Guide to Life on Earth
Getting that first job can be a daunting experience. In this workbook, Jeanette provides step-by-step, easy-to-understand advice on how to succeed in joining the workforce. With a positive approach to résumé writing, gaining work experience, sound interview skills, to what is expected in the workplace, The Wonderful World of Work opens up many doors of opportunity, arming Asperteens with the right knowledge and ambition to mastering a fulfilling career ahead.
Barb Cook, Editor-in-Chief of Autism Aspergers Network Magazine and co-founder of Australian Autism Aspergers Network Inc.
This is a fascinating workbook written with Aspie insight and advice - for Aspies - from an Aspie. Jeanette has thought of everything incorporated in the workforce, with specific activities that draw out the reader's own personal ambitions, thoughts and future plans. Including her own personal experiences helped cement the foundation of the book. This workbook is a practical, encouraging, unique resource to help steer any Asperteens who are nearly ready or looking for employment.
Josie Santomauro, author, speaker, consultant and mother of a son with Asperger's Syndrome
This book told me lots of useful information about the workplace and how to get a job. The illustrations made it more exciting and encouraged me to read more. The activities are fun and helped me to think about jobs I might do when I finish school.
Sarah Flach, aged 13
As an teenage girl with Asperger's Syndrome, this book gave me courage and the information I need to get a job and to have a basic understanding of work. It's easy to read and Jeanette explains each aspect of working and getting a job really well. This book is useful to young Aspies, like myself, wanting to enter the world of work. I think it's also useful for parents to read so they can help their child with this new experience.
Ellen Fisher, aged 14