Abstract

How to Be Yourself in a World that's Different is an accessible guide to Asperger's syndrome (AS) written for young readers who have been diagnosed with AS and autism spectrum conditions.

The book features clear explanations of the condition, including symptoms that are common to people on the autism spectrum, such as a hypersensitivity to touch and difficulties with balance and coordination. The characteristics and symptoms of other syndromes that often coincide with AS are also discussed, for example AD/HD, learning disorders and tics, as well as the temporary states of mental dysfunction that people with AS tend to be predisposed to, including depression, anxiety, obsessive and compulsive behaviors and catatonia.

This informative and encouraging text highlights the positive aspects of autism spectrum conditions, such as diligence, fairness and a knack for unique ideas, but it also acknowledges the daily challenges faced by young people with AS and, crucially, offers strategies for dealing with these. Using case examples, Yoshida explores the difficulties of disclosing a diagnosis, takes readers through the stages of practicing key social skills, and offers advice on seeking support.

7-13 February 2007

`Many of the adults I work with are damaged by a history of failure, abuse and incomprehension. It is a shame they didn't find the kind of supportive and positive assistance this book offers when they were younger. For every disability, Yoshida finds abilities, for every challenge something to celebrate, without ever falsifying or disregarding the difficulties.'

Young People Now

`Adolescents diagnosed with AS and related disorders are often uninformed about their condition. Here, Yoshida offers basic, unadorned information about AS, including symptoms-tactile hypersensitivity, problems with coordination and emotion regulation-side effects associated with the condition (depression, anxiety, AD/HD) and advice on seeking help. Without ducking the many challenges that these adolescents face on a daily basis, the author proves a compassionate, understanding guide, adept at conveying the most important aspects of diagnosis, treatment and coping strategies. There is also a section about related disorders, and plenty of case studies that demonstrate crucial learned behaviours and the development of sharp social skills.

Accessible and encouraging.'

Kirkus Reports
`This author is a child psychiatrist at the Yokohama Psycho-Developmental Clinic in Japan with more than twenty years experience with ASD. Her insights reflect her experience, not only in her knowledge of AS, but in her ability to adjust her language to speak effectively to that age group.'
The Maap, Volume I, 2007
`This book would be a useful guide for anyone with an interest in Asperger Syndrome. It provides an overall view of the daily issues those with the syndrome face. It also includes medical and scientific evidence, citing heavy-weights in the field, such as Simon Baron-Cohen… What I found refreshing was the way it reinforced the importance of a positive attitude towards Asperger syndrome… The latter half of this concise book is taken up with practical help. It neatly reverts back to the beginning and addresses the description of Asperger syndrome as a group of impairments, making recommendations those professionals will recognise as good practice… I urge you to read How to be Yourself as an addition to the growing awareness of Asperger syndrome and to understanding those it affects.'
Children Now, 6-12 June 2007
` A short informative book covering the neurology of Asperger syndrome, the problems that can be experienced and suggestions for coping, its readable, conversational style speaks very much to the person with Aspergers. Clinicians will find it helpful to gain an insight into this client group and as a self-help guide to recommend to them and their carers.'
Speech & Language therapy in Practice
`The main objective if the book is to provide help for adolescents, which it achieves very well. It would be useful for parents of younger children'.
Journal of Play Therapy
`Written specifically for young readers who have Asperger syndrome or autism. It provides a thorough background briefing in the condition, and of other syndromes associated with it. The positive aspects of autistic spectrum disorders are highlighted, as are strategies for dealing with the difficulties.'
British Institution of Learning Disabilities

7-13 February 2007

`This is an exceptionally positive book. I would recommend it for pre-teen and teenage kids with AS'.

The Maap, Volume I, 2007
`Very often we are asked to recommend a book about AS that is appropriate for middle school or high school aged person with AS to read. This easy-to-read book would make that list.'
The Maap, Volume I ,2007
Yuko Yoshida M.D. is a child psychiatrist at the Yokohama Psycho-Developmental Clinic in Japan, which specializes in diagnosing and treating children with autism spectrum and other developmental disorders. She is also Managing Director of the Institute of PsychoEducation for Children. She trained under Lorna Wing and Judith Gould, has over 20 years' clinical experience and is one of only a handful of professionals in Japan certified to use the Diagnostic Interview for Social and Communication Disorders (DISCO). She has previously authored Championing the individual: On raising children with Asperger's syndrome and high-functioning autism and co-translated into Japanese The Autistic Spectrum: A Guide for Parents & Professionals by Lorna Wing.

Current Awareness Service, November 2006

`This book would be helpful to any adolescent coming to terms with the diagnosis, to parents, teachers, youth workers working with someone with Asperger's and potentially to classmates or group members. It is an object lesson in not just knowing but understanding.'

Young People Now