Abstract

Chris and Gisela have been partners for twelve years. Four years ago Chris was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome. For Chris, this was an explanation of why he had always regarded himself as 'socially handicapped'. For Gisela, it meant coming to terms with a marriage in which there would never be an intuitive understanding despite Chris's good intentions. For the couple it was the beginning of a long and still unfinished process of learning to live with a disability regarded by some as incompatible with marriage.
A humane and tender book…Chris's writing itself has done more to explain to me what Asperger syndrome involves than any `description' I have previously read…The book is hopeful without being soppy and brave without being boastful.
Open Mind
This is a book of real value to people with a personal experience of AS and one which will also be reassuring to parents of children diagnosed with AS. I would particularly recommend it as a quick read to both social and health care professionals who are involved in making assessments, trying to understand the `person' and attempting to enable people with AS to achieve their own aspirations.
Professional Social Work Magazine
A very readable book, pastors may welll find it helpful for their own understanding, but also as a resource to pass on to couples concerned for their autistic child, as also to people suffering from this particular disability.
Ministry Today
This book is the first of its kind and is an essential read for couples, parents and professionals involved or interested in gaining a deeper understanding into the uncharted territory of Asperger marriages.
Maxine Aston, Relate Trainer and Couple Counsellor specialising in relationships affected by Asperger Syndrome and author of `The Other Half of Asperger Syndrome'.

This fascinating book is a joint venture between Gisela and Chris. They have each written frankly of their own perceptions of their marriage and reflect with great sensitivity on the impact which Asperger's syndrome has had on their 12 years of living together. It is likely to be of particular interest to those involved in marital counselling.

'If you are looking for a sensitive and enlightening insight into an 11-year-old marriage between a man diagnosed with Asperger's and his long-suffering wife, look no further than this excellent book... the heartening message is that, despite the immense obstacles - both within the marriage and from the lack of facilities available - here is a couple that have managed to go a long way towards bridging that "yawning chasm".

Looking UP
[When] one partner has Asperger syndrome, making the diagnosis can be problematic, but giving advice on coping and understanding the condition is even more problematic. That is why reading Chris and Gisela's book was so fascinating and helpful.They do not pretend that it is easy, but their factual information with some poignant yet amusing anecdotes make this an enjoyable, as well as informative, book to read. I would highly recommend the book for couples where one partner has Asperger syndrome and for professionals, not only those working in this field, but anyone who works with people with relationship difficulties. It is definitely on my list of recommended reading.
Communication
Chris and Gisela Slater-Walker married in 1994. They met while both studying Russian at Manchester University. They live in Hertfordshire with three children from Gisela's previous marriage and their son George. Chris was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome in 1997.
This book is the first to examine a successful marriage from both perspectives and provides knowledge that will be of value, not only to similar couples and individuals with Asperger Syndrome who are considering a relationship, but also the organizations that support relationships.
from the foreword by Tony Attwood