Abstract

Cynthia Kim explores all the quirkyness of living with Asperger Syndrome (ASD) in this accessible, witty and honest guide looking from an insider perspective at some of the most challenging and intractable aspects of being autistic. Her own life presents many rich examples. From being labelled nerdy and shy as an undiagnosed child to redefining herself when diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome as an adult, she describes how her perspective shifted to understanding a previously confusing world and combines this with the results of extensive research to explore the 'why' of ASD traits. She explains how they impact on everything from self-care to holding down a job and offers typically practical and creative strategies to help manage them, including a section on the vestibular, sensory and social benefits of martial arts for people with autism.

Well known in the autism community and beyond for her popular blog, Musings of an Aspie, Cynthia Kim's book is rich with personal anecdotes and useful advice. This intelligent insider guide will help adults with ASDs and their partners, family members, friends, and colleagues, but it also provides a fresh and witty window onto a different worldview.

In this honest and beautifully articulate book, Cynthia Kim reflects back on her life before and after her recent diagnosis, and she describes how her diagnosis helped her to gain a new understanding of herself and events in her past. The book is packed full of useful tips for others with Asperger's, and her own experiences with marriage and raising a child provide a valuable perspective which is both eye opening and a real pleasure to read.
Elisabeth Hurley, PhD, Research Officer, Autism West Midlands, UK
Cynthia Kim received a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in adulthood, and she spent the following year extensively researching ASD to better understand its role in her life, recording her findings in her blog 'Musings of an Aspie.' Cynthia is a freelance writer, and has published in both fiction and non-fiction markets over the past ten years. She runs her own independent publishing company, Turtle Press, and lives in Maryland, USA.
I have been a fan of Cynthia Kim's blog, Musings of an Aspie, for many years. This book has everything I've come to expect from her blog and more. Poignant and practical by turns, and always insightful, this book is a must read for anyone trying to get a better understanding of autism.
Lynne Soraya, blogger for Psychology Today and author of Living Independently on the Autism Spectrum
Cynthia Kim unequivocally captures the true essence of what it means to be autistic! What it means to be me! She helps you understand yourself, which enables you to struggle less with yourself and life. There's no doubt about it that Aspies are complex. Kim addresses all facets of what makes us different head-on. From shutting down to contentment and peace, it's all covered in this eye-opening account of living with Asperger's. Insight and advice follow each section for a clear and concise plan to help in your everyday life.
Anita Lesko, BSN,RN,MS,CRNA, internationally recognized Autism Advocate, author of Been There. Done That. Try This!, also published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers