Abstract

Parents, caregivers and educators are often at a loss about how best to support an individual with autism because they are overwhelmed by 'behaviours', inundated with prognoses and clinical jargon, or confused by technical information. This book introduces autism from a non-clinical, humanist perspective, emphasizing that we are all more alike than different. The author deconstructs the fundamental concepts of the autistic experience using language, examples and anecdotes that are concrete and understandable for all. Reinforced for the reader is the importance of listening carefully to what people are telling us about valuing differences, personal passions, communication, and holistic wellness.
The book is replete with strategies for helping people with autism and those who care for them integrate into the neurotypical world. What is unique and most valuable about this book is that it invites us to problem solve based on the values and perspectives of the person with autism first and the expectations of society second. When the inevitable compromises have to be made, he suggests we make them in such a way that we respect the validity of autism as a world view.
Metapsychology
We have much to learn from people with autism and this book makes explicit a lot of information that may be assumed, but perhaps should not be. Students and newly qualified therapists or those new to ASD as a speciality would undoubtedly benefit from reading the book and pondering the contents in the light of their clients' experiences.
Bulletin
William Stillman has worked in the disabilities field since 1987 and was employed by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare as the statewide point person for children and adolescents with mental health issues and autism. Bill is an adult with Asperger's Syndrome, and regularly presents on autism and Asperger's Syndrome.