Product Description
Take Control of Asperger's Syndrome: The Official Strategy Guide for Kids With Asperger's Syndrome and Nonverbal Learning Disorders is a unique handbook for kids and teens on living successful lives with these disorders by taking control of their strengths to overcome their weaknesses.
Drawing on their experiences as parents and teachers of kids with Asperger's syndrome (AS) and Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD), the authors provide tips on understanding the disorders, living with the symptoms, succeeding in school, completing homework, talking to others about strengths and needs, making friends and socializing, and using technology to connect with other kids with these disorders.
By interviewing dozens of kids who live with AS and NLD, the authors include ideas, information, and advice for kids, by kids just like them. This handy guidebook is sure to help any child or teen with AS or NLD navigate life's challenges with successful outcomes. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

A much needed book ...kudos to the authors!!
Having read the book, I knew it would be well received in the Special Needs environment. It is well organized with clear language and a precise understanding of Aspergers and NLD for the teen, the parents of the teen and the teacher in the school. Each chapter offers the reader an insight into the challenges that face him/her, and how to be his/her own advocate.I have already bought several books and have given them to my nephew, a friend's grandson and another friend's neice.Each was so grateful for the advice and tips offered in the book that I am certain this book will be recognized for its specific educational value in Aspergers Syndrone and NLD geared for the teen. The authors, Fisher and Price, have done a superb job in writing this book!!

Outstanding Guidance for Kids with Asperger's!!
Authors Price & Fisher created the ultimate guidebook for teens with Asperger's, providing up-to-date information written in a clear and concise way, and a multitude of practical and usable suggestions that will be of tremendous value for any teen with AS. As a psychologist working with teens, this book is one I highly recommend. Not only is it an excellent resource, but it provides a great deal of comfort to a teen with AS as he will read the book and no longer feel alone in his struggle. A+

Useful tool with great potential!
As a 20 year old growing up with a Non-verbal Learning Disorder I found this book to be very insightful and helpful for anyone with an autism spectrum learning disorder. Pro's and con's of these disorders and solutions to the issues that they present were clearly spelled-out. Often times books like this present solutions to issues that really don't make sense to someone with an autism spectrum disorder or are embarassing/difficult for students in general who are going through the self-concious teenage years but, the solutions presented in this handbook seemed very reasonable and highly attainable. I highly recommend this book for anyone with or who might interact with someone with an autisim spectrum disorder. Students, parents, teachers, family, and friends will all find great insight in this book!

Fantastic Resource Guide for Teens with Disabilities
As a mother of a teenage daughter with NLD, I found this book to be an incredibly useful tool for helping my daughter cope with her learning challenges.Let's face it, life with a teen can be difficult enough but more so when that teen has been diagnosed with learning difficulties. This book presents helpful tools and advice that can make this transition into the teenage years much smoother. I only wish I had something like this years ago.Jennifer Engel Fisher and Janet Price have written a book that is easy to read by both parents and children alike.At the end of each chapter, they include a "Tips and Tricks" which summarizes and gives practical advice on how to successfully cope with these challenges.By practicing self-advocacy, using assistive technology and having a plan for success (including study groups) kids will have a better chance of succeeding in educational and social settings.I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to improve their child's educational experience. We are living in a time when we understand the importance of recognizing LDs and we are fortunate to have the tools to be able to implement a plan for success.

Congratulations!
Although there are several books about NLD directed to the parent/teacher audience, the authors have targeted a new and critical audience - teens with the disorder!The format is creative and appealing for their intended audience, and very "real world" in approach.The discussion about NLD vs. AS will appeal to teens and parents alike.A welcome addition to the currently available NLD and AS resources.Congratulations, a job well done!!!

Nonverbal Learning Disabilities at Home: A Parent's Guide

Nonverbal Learning Disabilities at School: Educating Students With Nld, Asperger Syndrome and Related Conditions ... Read more

Product Description
Bullying is a serious problem for people with Asperger Syndrome (AS), both at school and in the workplace, and displaying "different" behavior, such as not understanding social rules or hand-flapping, exacerbates the risk of being victimized. Writing in an accessible, informal style, the author describes the bullying behavior he and other individuals have experienced, and the effect this has had on their lives. He outlines the reasons for bullying behavior and the danger of persistent recurrence if it remains unchecked, as well as the critical importance of "involving the bystander". Nick Dubin goes on to provide a range of effective strategies to address bullies and bullying that can be applied by parents, professionals, schools, and individuals being bullied. He stresses the importance of peer intervention, empathetic teachers, and verbal self-defense, and shows how lack of support, condemning of "tale telling," or even blaming the victim reinforces bullying. This book offers individuals with AS who are being bullied the opportunity to see that they are not alone, and it is an invaluable source of advice for parents, teachers, professionals and personnel managers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

EXCELLENT! A must have for EVERY school district!
This book was written from the heart from a straight-forward, personal account of Nick's own problems with being bullied throughout his young, academic life.The fact that it was from a personal perspective instead of all those clinical-type books out there made it much easier for a parent to read first-hand what bullying does to a child with Asperger's Syndrome and, most importantly, how he felt, which gives us parents a sense of what our child(ren) go through on a daily basis.The stories were tough to read, as it brought back so many memories of what my boys went through, and still go through, but he has some excellent strategies for parents to teach their children.I also think this should be required reading material for every teacher in elementary, middle, and high school.So much bullying gets swept under the rug, such as "boys will be boys," but that is NOT the case in most bullying cases.It's easy to read, concise, and full of terrific suggestions as to how to handle most bullying situations.It is a must have for every parent/teacher's library.For Nick to offer his own suffering at the hands of bullying, it makes the book more real and, as I said, less "clinical."I gave it the highest rating possible, as it's truly an inspiring story of a child who was bullied horribly, but made the best of it with supportive parents, and the great gift of sharing his stories with us.I can't thank him enough for writing this book.It's given me hope that even though my boys are often bullied or "picked on," they can and WILL grow up to be successful young adults and, thus, successful men!

Good Book
I thought this book was very informative on what it is like to have Asperger Syndrome and what can be done or what should be done to help with the problem of bullying.

Great book--every educator should read this!
well-written. all school educators should read t his. I am a school administrator and a parent of a son with Asperger's who is bullied in school. This is very helpful.

This guy knows his stuff!
Having been bullied most of my life in and out of school I just learned to live with it. It was only when, like the author, I was diagnosed in adulthood with AS that the pieces of my life began to come together. However one thing still troubled me, why was I subjected to such harsh treatment? That was up until I read this book.

This book, written in a style of a informative manual for professionals such as teachers, clearly spells out why people on the spectrum are subjected to bullying and harassment on a daily basis in the torturous prison that is our schools. The author has dedicated a chapter to some of his own experiences and uses these and the stories of others on the spectrum to plainly illustrate his points. However unlike some other books on the subject that I have read he also backs up these points with numerous references to other studies, books and other AS authorities.

I am not saying that this book is without its flaws. For one many of the strategies suggested for use by the teachers and the victims themselves will have in one form or other been tried and have often failed due in part to the fact that some bullies actively look for a chink in the armour, once it is found the whole cycle begins again. Also the book is very thin for the subject matter and while this is good in stopping the reader getting bored it does very little when you are trying to find really good in-depth material on the subject.

Having said that, this book gives a rock solid foundation for parents, victims and teachers to build on and create a better strategy for dealing with bullying of people on the spectrum and those who are not. Also this book puts a strong emphasis on engaging bystanders, turning them from innocent bystanders into a dynamic force to help stamp out bullying when it starts instead of when it has taken root. As it says, Bullying does not happen in a vacuum.

If you are looking for a good book about bullying on the spectrum, this guy knows his stuff.

Nice to know other people go through this.
I have asperber's syndrome and I learned this years after I graduated from highschool.I knew that I was very much bullied all through high school and grade school.I suggest that people read this book and think what is happening with the victems of bullies.Many of of them are aspies who do no know it.

Again, I said this is recomend for every one. ... Read more

Product Description
The middle school years, and the transitionsto middle and high school, pose challenges for all students. But for students with Asperger Syndrome the transition can be traumatic, leading to a downward emotional spiral and even depression. This comprehensive book starts with an overview of those characteristics of AS that make adolescence particularly challenging and difficult. The centerpiece of the book is a look at strategies and supports for a successful school experiencefor students with AS at the middle and secondary levels. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

My favorite book!
I have to say this is my favorite book and it is full of vaulable information.I want to buy one for the staff at my child's school as this could enlighten them.I would highly recommend this book to every one.Brenda Smith Myles is highly knowledgeable and extremely helpful!

Excellent information for Teachers and Parents
I bought this book when it first was published 6 years ago. At that time I also went to a Smith-Myles workshop about the book. I am a special education teacher and parent of a child with Aspergers. My son with Aspergers just started Junior High.I've read several books on the subject, and it is the best I have seen having to do with Aspergers, adolescence, and school issues. Clear descriptions of the challenges kids face, modifications that may be necessary, tools to ensure success, and more.I recommend it to any parent or teacher of an adolescent with Asperger Syndrome.

GREAT Starting point!!
This book is a fantastic starting point for parents getting ready to transition a kid on the spectrum from elementary to middle school. Lots of evaluation tools and guidance on who, how and when to use them. Lots of "backbone to borrow" when working with teachers, administrators and therapists to get a strong, individualized program designed and set up. Help with timelines, objections and obstacles, resource ideas, and setting priorities. The case study and personal history sections were very comforting (I really am not alone in this struggle) and informative (just what is important to a 12yo boy on the spectrum about school).

Highly recommended - but start early!

Excellent Resource
As a clinical psychologist specializing in the field of Autism Spectrum Disorders, I have found this book to be an excellent resource.I recommend it to many families, andto teachers who work with this population.One of the strengths of this book is its articulate examination of the interplay between the cognitive, social and behavioral issues experienced by individuals with Aspergers.The book also suggests a number of intervention strategies that are realistic, practical and helpful for addressing skills deficits and encouraging the potential for individuals with Aspergers.

Finally a book about academics in the adolescent years ! !
This book focuses specifically on academic issues of children with Asperger's in middle and high school.There are many other books about other aspects of Aspergers, but this is the only good book I have found on this specific topic.

Diane has a great understanding of the difficulties faced by child aspies who on the surface may be getting "good grades" but are failing in many other ways.Learning difficulties in these children can be subtle and often show up as incomplete assignments or "behavior problems".

The book has extensive information and checklists on evaluating the strengths, weaknesses, and needs for accomodations.The information is detailed and exhaustive.
A large part of the book is dedicated to supports and accomodations which can help students achieve their potential.

The book also covers theoft overlooked area of transitioning between elementary school and middle school.Many children getting by in elementary school can suddenly fall apart in middle school because of problems with executive functioning.

This book is a great book for both parents and school personnel.All parents of adolescent asperger children should read this book.It will help you identify the problems your child is having and help you brainstorm about possible "solutions."The book gave me a greater appreciation for the difficulties my son faces.I wish all schools would incorporate the many accomodations listed, but understand that the reality falls short of what these children need.You may not be able to get all the accomodations listed, but you can identify key areas and focus insuring those get included in your child's IEP.

Parents should buy one copy for themselves and one for the head of the special ed/exceptional student department. ... Read more

Product Description
Realizing the College Dream with Autism or Asperger Syndrome is both a practical and a personal account of one ASD student's successful experience of going to college.
This accessible book focuses on how to get there and stay there: deciding to go, how to get in and how to get the most out of it. Ann Palmer advises parents and professionals how to prepare the student for the transition from school and home life to a new environment and educational challenge, and how to support them through potential problems such as academic pressure, living away from home, social integration and appropriate levels of participation in college. She offers helpful strategies that will encourage and inspire parents and students and show that college can be a suitable option for students with an autism spectrum disorder, as well as the basis for a successful independent life later.
This book is essential reading for any parent considering college as an option for their child, disability service providers in colleges and for ASD students themselves. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Good, practical advice
I purchased this book on the recommendation of my college age AS child. I wanted to learn how to provide support and guidance becoming a "helicopter" parent. I was not disappointed. Written from a parent's experiences, this book was practical without being simplistic and optimistic without being naive about the challenges facing AS students. The web sites and other reference material were also very helpful.

A definite "buy"
In brief:I echo all the laudatory remarks written above.Excellent, very "human" book.Another superb and quite new (2009) book on the subject is "Students with Asperger Syndrome: A Guide for College Personnel," by Lorraine E. Wolf, Ph.D.; Jane Thierfeld Brown, Ed.D.; and G. Ruth Kukiela Bork, M.Ed.These two books together provide parents of teens with AS a thorough grounding in what to expect and how to sidestep potential "landmines" during the transition to college.

Wonderfully helpful
As my Asperger's son graduates from a 2 year technical school tonight, I must say that without this book, I doubt we would be where we are today.Ann Palmer, thank you so much!

A mother shares her experience
Imagine that your local ASD parent support group has a member whose son has gone away to college successfully.You know this mom must have done tons of research along the way, from the time her son was first diagnosed until she was moving him into his dorm.She agrees to speak at one of your group meetings.What would you like to ask her?

The answers to your questions are in this book.It's a very personal account of how one family successfully prepared their HFA son for college.When I first began reading, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to use the information in the book because my son's situation is so different from that of the author's child.However, once I got past the sections on early childhood and reached the account of the high school years, I was able to apply the information to my family's situation.

I found the chapter on possible accommodations in college especially helpful.If your child receives any accommodations or services now, you know that it can be hard to find out what is available.I've found that other parents are often the most useful source of information on accommodations, and Ann Palmer proves that to be true.

I also found it very helpful to have a parent's view of how to help a child on the spectrum to become his/her own advocate.I had become nervous reading over and over that college students must be their own advocates, without having an example of how to hand that responsibility over to my son.This book helped with that.

The last chapter, on careers, is a useful introduction to what might come after college.The book also includes a helpful resource list and a sample self-disclosure form.

I got this book through interlibrary loan, but plan to buy my own copy to refer to over the next several years.

A Must-Own For HFA Parents
WONDERFUL book. Full of helpful information for parents of children with HFA or Aspergers who dream of their child going to college. I recomend reading in 9th grade for a good picture of what's to come and what you can do to help pave the road for your ASD child. I got it from the library, but will make this a purchase!

Written by a parent, for parents. Simple and easy to read. You won't get lost in medical lingo
... Read more

Product Description
In this book, the author translates years of experience working with students with Asperger Syndrome and social-communicationdifficulties. The essence of this resource: 70 of the skills that most commonly cause difficulty for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and social-communication problems. Each skill is presented with a reproducible skill handout, as well as activity sheets listing ways teachers and parents can demonstrate, practice and reinforce the skill in the classroom and at home. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Wonderful!
This book is great!I use it in social skills groups with children of all different ability levels (not just Asperger's children).The lessons are very well thought out and planned and the children really understand the concepts.I would highly recommend this book!

Great book!
The book is very easy, practical and informative!I work with children with autism and aspergers and recommend the book.

Great book!
This book has step by step instructions on social skills and I love the easy to read and teach format.I don't know if my son has Asperger's, but he really struggles with social skills and this has been a great help to us.

very practical workbook
I found this book very useful.It lists skills a child should have, which are so inherent to those who don't have this probelm, they are actually hard to think of on your own.For each skill it gives examples and ways to encourage gaining the skill.Every parent whose child's social skills aren't up to par with their peers will benefit from this book.

Great for Social Skills Training
This book is an excellent resource for those who want to assist children and young adults with social skills training.There are clear cut lessons and activities that cover a variety of topics from how to greet others to asking someone on a date.Very valuable for those who need concrete examples of the correct way to approach many different social situations. Could be used for children on the autism spectrum, but also for any child who could benefit from practice in social interaction, even those who are shy. Anyone who lives and works with students who have social skills defecits would find this book useful. ... Read more

Product Description
Playing the dating game is often tricky: all the more so for individuals with Asperger's Syndrome. How do AS adolescents and their families cope with sexual feelings and behaviour? What help can be given if a man with AS oversteps the mark in expressing his sexuality? How do people with AS deal with intimacy and communication in sexual relationships? In this comprehensive and unique guide, Isabelle Henault delivers practical information and advice on issues ranging from puberty and sexual development, gender identity disorders, couples' therapy to guidelines for sex education programs and maintaining sexual boundaries. This book will prove indispensable to parents, teachers, counsellors and individuals with AS themselves. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Asperger's Understood, Applied for Adolescents
This is a great Asperger's book for counselors, family and especially teenagers. It covers the whole spectrum ofsymptoms andtreatment and focuses on the sexual questions that a teenager or young adult might not feel free to discuss. It is respectful of their natural sexuality and the problems that may arise out of their inability to find release for their sexual desires. It is a reassuring and positive book aboutlife's full potential for those suffering from this often undiagnosed developmental disorder. A great addition to the wide spectrum of books on Aspergers. ... Read more

Product Description
Asperger Syndrome is on the high-functioning end of the autism spectrum and is characterized by a lack of social skills, abnormal preoccupation with certain objects or tasks, and the inability to control one?s rage. It is also characterized by high creativity and passion that can be too often squelched in a parent?s or teacher?s efforts to manage the behavior of the AS child. There is no specific treatment or cure. This is a relatively new diagnosis, and has been retroactively applied to geniuses like Vladimir Nabokov.But for the modern kid, who has to follow the social norms of the day, which include sitting for long periods of time in a chair, AS can be excruciatingly difficult.

There are several books on AS that sell very well with little or no promotion. There is not one for teens, however. The author sees a lot of AS adolescents, and they encounter a unique set of problems as they need to assert their independence without the social intuition their peers possess.This book addresses those needs in a practical, positive way, ensuring that the reader recognizes and celebrates the benefits of AS as well as its drawbacks.The book is full of fascinating, inspiring anecdotes of AS teens.

Teresa Bolick, Ph.D is a clinical psychologist who has worked with school systems and HMOs and specializes in kids with AS and autism.She speaks regularly on the subject and has a private practice in Nashua, New Hampshire, where she is a consultant to several school districts on kids with autism and AS. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

Helpful for 'tweens, too!
Even though this book's title targets parents of adolescents, it is immensely helpful from mid-grade school on, or perhaps even earlier. It offers, among other things,pracitical solutions for helping kids to organize information in a way which will make them more likely to succeed in school, and to develop strategies for the future of college and even the work force. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is the parent of a child or teen with Asperger Syndrome!

Goes beyond Asperger's
I started reading this book to learn more about Asperger's.But I also ended up learning a LOT about people in general, how to recognize when people are having problems, and specific ways to be helpful.I learned how to improve my own self-soothing behaviors, how to go "Low and Slow" when those around me are escalating, etc. I'm buying a copy to share with my friends.Rarely have I read such a practical and helpful book.

So Helpful
As the parent of an adolescent child with Asperger's, I found this book to be just what was needed -- a no nonsense approach to helping our kids with a sense of humor.This is the second book by this author that I have purchased.I will purchase more, I am sure.

Insightful, Useful, and Enlightening
This book is one of the best I've seen about the transitional issues that arise when someone with Aspergers reaches their teens.With my son, we find each developmental step has its own challenges, but the movement into middle school, with the increased expectations of self-management and the early teen student issues among peers has been a bigger challengethan most.This book helped me frame these issues as they apply to my son, improving my understanding.Then I could apply many of the ideas provided both directly and through the school.My biggest problem is that this is such a slow read ... not because it is hard to read (to the contrary, its very understandable and straightforward.)Its a "slow go" because of all of the underlining and page marking I am doing to track the "good stuff."Dr Bolick has done those of use living in these situation a major service with this work!I fully recommend it.

Extremely Helpful Resource!
I haven't finished reading this book, but so far what I've read completely fits.My AS teen needs all the help he can get with organization, social skills, etc.This book gives real life examples and excerps from real parents and adolescents with AS.This book is helping me to better understand my child and to help him develop strategies and coping mechanisms so he can have a successful life.Definitely a good addition to my AS library! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Excellent
This is a great book, not just for Asperger Syndrome. It relates and explains all of the sensory systems really well and in easy to understand terms.

Breaks Down Sensory Issues into Bite Sized Pieces
I like how this book breaks down each sensory area and identifies it with a sensory character to help you navigate through the book.I really liked the "Incident, Interpretation & Intervention" table that walks you through many different specific sensory issues to help offer advice in addressing issues that arise. Offers strategies.I found the book quite insightful.Joanna Keating-Velasco, Author, A Is For Autism, F Is for Friend

Neurotypical (NT) and autism/Asperger's (a/A) - Meet Halfway
This book brings to mind June Carter Cash's beautiful, fair-minded statement to husband Johnny Cash:"I'll meet you halfway."A more fair and loving statement has yet to be made.

I did feel it was helpful in many respects.It is good to get the voice of a man who has intimate, personal knowledge of a/A and explaining some of the sensory issues that accompany this neurobiological condition.Since people on the a/A spectrum are expected to make concessions to the NT world just to get along socially, it is nice to have books like this that provide explanations of what people with autism contend with.The world is for everyone and not just for the NT population.Shore does a good job of encouraging NT and a/A to meet one another halfway.This is about cooperation.

Informative and entertaining in equal measures
This book brings a much more detailed perspective on early adult life on the autistic spectrum than many others. The fact that it is looking at AS through a man's eyes is also worth noting.The author touchs on career choice issues that many with AS have agonised over. To disclose or not to disclose being the Big Question.I won't spoil your reading by recounting the author's experiences.

The book describes 'relationships' in candid AS terms.There is a huge amount here for researchers and professionals to dwell on.However, the book is not a guidebook for managing relationships better (or even getting into them) and a crucial metacommentary on events in the book is largely absent.

Overall I enjoyed this book. Most readers will find the latter half of the book dealing with college and adult life more revealing than the first half, in my opinion.The book presents AS in sharp tones on occasion.It is a 'warts and all' narrative, but I highly recommend reading it.

ONLY FOR NON-ASPERGERS
I am an adult with Aspergers and bought the book after reading the great reviews here. Although it is a good book that shows some aspects of the Aspergers world to outsiders, for us who live and swim in it, this was an unsatisfying book. It merely scratches the surface of our world. Buy it if you want just a glimpse in. ... Read more

Product Description
Usually diagnosed in childhood, Asperger syndrome is a lifelong socialdisorder that bears many similarities to high-functioning autism. Individuals with the disorder arecharacterized by a lack of empathy, little ability to form friendships, one-sided conversations,clumsy movements, and intense absorption in special interests. While Asperger syndrome hasreceived increasing attention from researchers, clinicians, educators, and parents in recent years,numerous central questions about the disorder remain unanswered. This groundbreaking volumebrings together preeminent scholars and practitioners to offer a definitive statement of what iscurrently known about Asperger syndrome and to highlight promising leads in research andclinical practice. Diagnostic and conceptual issues are explored in depth, and the disorder'sassessment, treatment, and neurobiology are thoroughly reviewed. The book examines the effectsof Asperger syndrome on an individual's social, communication, and behavioral development,and identifies the challenges that these individuals face at home, in school and the workplace,and in other settings. The volume concludes with several parent essays that exemplify the trialsand tribulations--as well as the joys and the victories--of life with a child with Aspergersyndrome. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Volkmar is unreliable
I would not believe anything he writes because of his anti-science bias.For example, in his adolescent psychiatry book he presents alot of patent falsehoods on ME (CFS) that likely serve to retard the science and cause a great deal of iatrogenic morbidity.

For Academics.
This books is more of a research overview than anthing else, with a variety of papers written from several perspectives.A particular disappointment to me was that, rather than getting essays from the many talented Aspies out there, they got some from their parents to close the book out.It is probably more useful to psychiatrists, Occupational Therapists, and the specialist working on a Ph.D. in Special Ed than any parent or newly diagnosed Aspie.

If you are a parent, and interested in getting into your child's mind, I would suggest reading Liane Holliday Wilson (Aspergers) or Temple Grandin (HFA) or Steven Shore (Aspergers).Szatmari's book is also decent, but is more of a professional's attempts to get into our heads, rather than truly being a first hand account.

There is also a great deal of information, both academic and first-hand accounts, by people on the internet.Viewer beware, however.There is a great amount of nonsense about chelation treatments and other such things that have never been scientifically proven to improve your child's behavior or social skills.

For the latter, I suggest a book called "Incorporating Social Skills in the Classroom", and also a book on NLD whose name I can't currently remember but that you can find in my recently reviewed list.

Very good reference on the topic.
I agree with both reviewers already listed. This book is NOT for the casual reader and most family/ friends will find it difficult, distracting and frustrating. For the newcommer to the field there are better books out there. However this is the best I've seen for someone alreadh familiar with the disorder who wants a good review of the state of the art in 1999-2000. For the serious student however, one would want to augment the text with more up to date journal materials as new information is available. It would be great to see a new addition of this book released.

Excellent source of material for researchers
The collection of papers in this volume are really top class. All the academic authors (there are a few snippets from parents) are very well published.The erudition shows in the breadth and depth of coverage. In such a rapidly hanginf field thisis as near as you can come to frozen slice of current thinking. Unlike many anthologies, wherein authors expound on a particular niche obsession, the bulk of articles here offer broad overviews of work. The diagnosis and symptomatology debate is well presented in a series of papers opening the book. Leaving aside the technical academic ares, most paretns will find teh sections on langauge and interventions informative but downheartening. What come across is that adoelscents AS are so heterogenous as a group that even assessing theor conversational deficits is several dozen research projects in itself.The one area of the book that I personally was a little weak on recommendations related to interventions. The emphasis here was on methodological concerns and in fact often meta-methodological concerns. It is eqaully clear that many researchers regard the possibility of remission of AS has highly improbable - to be polite about it. Be that as it may, I reflected to myself a number of times during the course of reading the book (and being part of team looking into interventions), that if a fraction of the effort expended was applied to intervention research would be make better strides?It's a moot point, but if we lose hope we better close down science.

This one is demanding!
On the jacket, Sally J Rogers, Ph D states, "...........Adults with AS and parents of children with AS will find it a veritable encyclopedia.............".I certainly agree with this statement, but would add some qualifying remarks. It is undoubtedly intended as a detailed text for scholars and specialists in Psychiatry and Psychology who are fully versed in scientific investigatory techniques, and lay readers including even many with good levels of general education, will find reading it a daunting task. However, dogged persistence may well be very rewarding. For those general readers who wish to gain some insight into what has become known as Asperger Syndrome, I would recommend that they first read less demanding texts in order to obtain some general grounding in the subject - such as 'Asperger's Syndrome' by Dr Tony Attwood. ... Read more

Product Description
Autobiography of a woman and her child diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. Author shares her daily struggles and challenges. Includes appendices providing coping strategies and guidance. For the general reader as well as professionals. Softcover. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (81)

Did not like at all
This book was basically the author remembering her childhood in long, drawn-out stories, and wrapping every story in an "ah ha, now I realize it was due to Asperger's Syndrome".To me, much of what she described sounded like a fairly ordinary awkward childhood that I'm sure many people experience. The author herself says that she was never diagnosed with AS and I couldn't help wondering if she really has it.Whether or not she does, I don't think this was a very good book. It just came across as someone rewriting their own history, but for what end?To sell a book about AS?The book concludes with a few self-help chapters giving advice for how to deal with AS, for example, if you have auditory sensitivity she says "try to avoid areas where different noises merge together... rooms filled with loud people, etc. Consider earplugs...". And other such words of wisdom.

Good subjective description of what it is like to have AS
This is a book about Asperger's syndrome penned by one suffering from it. However the author's Asperger's syndrome was not diagnosed (if it ever was) until one of her own children received this diagnosis.

What shall I say? The author is exceedingly articulate and expresses in detail whatever she wants to say. The book was a bit too intense for me (who apparently have many of the symptoms of AS as do practically all of the reviewers on this site.) She tells us about the problems she had in her childhood and later in life. She is apparently extremely extrovert and has difficulty in refraining from immediately blurting out her opinions, and indeed enjoys talking in front of a group. Though I have seen elsewhere that some AS sufferers have the opposite problem and talk very little. She doesn't mention this fact however, and I feel that one of the minuses of the book is that it is so subjective.

We are led to understand from the book that AS sufferers have difficulty in creating and keeping friends, and on the whole in cooperating with others. They generally do not feel a need to create strong relationships with others. They have difficulty with social relations as a whole, in knowing the "right" things to do and say. Loud noises and sharp lights are found disturbing, this leading to a lack of desire to frequent public places or attend parties or events attracting a large number of people.

What I found remarkable was that the author did manage to create and retain some few good friends, who have been of indispensable help to her. I feel that she has been extremely blessed in this respect, taking her "handicap" into consideration. She has also found an understanding, compatible partner and given birth to three children.

She had difficulty in orienting herself, for example, finding her way about the university she attended or maneuvering shopping malls. She likes rules and like me, especially when I was younger, has difficulty in understanding or accepting that when people say they will do certain things in a certain time frame they don't do them.

This book has been an eye-opener for me, in that it has helped me to recognize my own Asperger characteristics and to show me that I am not alone with all this. I now better understand the perfectionistic side to my nature and why I hate spelling mistakes and the like. I also better understand my need to read everything in a book, preferably skipping nothing, though I did manage to skip a few of the appendices in this book which I didn't feel were relevant to me.

Some qualities of "Aspies" are that they are honest, direct ("say it like it is") and loyal friends if their friends can accept the fact that they are different and "hold out". "Aspies" don't necessarily lack empathy, I certainly don't, and they/we can be extremely helpful by nature.

I would diagnose Detective Monk in the popular TV-series as being an extreme example of an "Aspie" (though his OCD symptoms are those most generally recognizable). He often has difficulty in being empathic or recognizing the needs of others, but in the end he helps them anyway, even at the risk of his life. Of course he is a fictional character, but must have been modelled on some real-life person.

To sum up, this book is extremely useful for those of us who ourselves have AS characteristics, and for those who need help to understand us. Though it must be pointed out that all the characteristics of the author are not shared by all other "Aspies".

Good but not quite great; appendices wonderful
Willey has Asperger's syndrome, but never knew it until her daughter was diagnosed with it. She knew she was different from most people, and that some things were harder for her, but that was as far as it went. She was a high achiever in school, went through college and got her doctorate, married and had children. Asperger's did not stop her, and now, knowing why she is different, her past makes sense to her. This is her story of what life is like with Asperger's.

This is a very short book- shorter than any of the other books on living with Asperger's that I've read- and because of this there is a lack of detail about how she felt growing up and how she dealt with the challenges of not being neurotypical. I almost had the feeling that she didn't really feel that her Asperger's was a big deal. She has a very supportive family, both by birth and by marriage, and a few good friends, and that helps a lot when dealing with any health challenge.

While her personal story is interesting, the heart of the book are the appendices, brief articles on how to make one's life easier when one has Asperger's. Included are good ways to explain to the people around you, how to decide which people to tell,specific suggestions for getting through college with the various problems that come along with Asperger's, employment issues, keeping your home life in order, how to deal with sensory perception problems, and suggestions for the non-Asperger's who care about someone on the spectrum. This section is a short but packed full of useful information like a jewel box of hints.

Recommended for anyone with Asperger's and anyone with someone with it in their life.

misdiagnosed with AS
I have some AS features that were largely due to my troubled upbringing, so I was misdiagnosed with it when I moved in with relatives as a teen.A marriage counsellor assigned me to read this as homework.It contains good insights into many communication barriers and interaction problems we all face.I believe it may be more helpful for women than men.

Book on Asperger Syndrome
Excellent book on Aspergers Syndrome from the perspective of an adult female who has lived with Asperger's.Very helpful to know what the children who are diagnosed with this syndrome are going through and how difficult life can be.Also reassuring to know that a very happy married life can be part of the outcome, given the right partner. ... Read more

Product Description
Autobiography of a woman and her child diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. Author shares her daily struggles and challenges. Includes appendices providing coping strategies and guidance. For the general reader as well as professionals. Softcover. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (81)

Did not like at all
This book was basically the author remembering her childhood in long, drawn-out stories, and wrapping every story in an "ah ha, now I realize it was due to Asperger's Syndrome".To me, much of what she described sounded like a fairly ordinary awkward childhood that I'm sure many people experience. The author herself says that she was never diagnosed with AS and I couldn't help wondering if she really has it.Whether or not she does, I don't think this was a very good book. It just came across as someone rewriting their own history, but for what end?To sell a book about AS?The book concludes with a few self-help chapters giving advice for how to deal with AS, for example, if you have auditory sensitivity she says "try to avoid areas where different noises merge together... rooms filled with loud people, etc. Consider earplugs...". And other such words of wisdom.

Good subjective description of what it is like to have AS
This is a book about Asperger's syndrome penned by one suffering from it. However the author's Asperger's syndrome was not diagnosed (if it ever was) until one of her own children received this diagnosis.

What shall I say? The author is exceedingly articulate and expresses in detail whatever she wants to say. The book was a bit too intense for me (who apparently have many of the symptoms of AS as do practically all of the reviewers on this site.) She tells us about the problems she had in her childhood and later in life. She is apparently extremely extrovert and has difficulty in refraining from immediately blurting out her opinions, and indeed enjoys talking in front of a group. Though I have seen elsewhere that some AS sufferers have the opposite problem and talk very little. She doesn't mention this fact however, and I feel that one of the minuses of the book is that it is so subjective.

We are led to understand from the book that AS sufferers have difficulty in creating and keeping friends, and on the whole in cooperating with others. They generally do not feel a need to create strong relationships with others. They have difficulty with social relations as a whole, in knowing the "right" things to do and say. Loud noises and sharp lights are found disturbing, this leading to a lack of desire to frequent public places or attend parties or events attracting a large number of people.

What I found remarkable was that the author did manage to create and retain some few good friends, who have been of indispensable help to her. I feel that she has been extremely blessed in this respect, taking her "handicap" into consideration. She has also found an understanding, compatible partner and given birth to three children.

She had difficulty in orienting herself, for example, finding her way about the university she attended or maneuvering shopping malls. She likes rules and like me, especially when I was younger, has difficulty in understanding or accepting that when people say they will do certain things in a certain time frame they don't do them.

This book has been an eye-opener for me, in that it has helped me to recognize my own Asperger characteristics and to show me that I am not alone with all this. I now better understand the perfectionistic side to my nature and why I hate spelling mistakes and the like. I also better understand my need to read everything in a book, preferably skipping nothing, though I did manage to skip a few of the appendices in this book which I didn't feel were relevant to me.

Some qualities of "Aspies" are that they are honest, direct ("say it like it is") and loyal friends if their friends can accept the fact that they are different and "hold out". "Aspies" don't necessarily lack empathy, I certainly don't, and they/we can be extremely helpful by nature.

I would diagnose Detective Monk in the popular TV-series as being an extreme example of an "Aspie" (though his OCD symptoms are those most generally recognizable). He often has difficulty in being empathic or recognizing the needs of others, but in the end he helps them anyway, even at the risk of his life. Of course he is a fictional character, but must have been modelled on some real-life person.

To sum up, this book is extremely useful for those of us who ourselves have AS characteristics, and for those who need help to understand us. Though it must be pointed out that all the characteristics of the author are not shared by all other "Aspies".

Good but not quite great; appendices wonderful
Willey has Asperger's syndrome, but never knew it until her daughter was diagnosed with it. She knew she was different from most people, and that some things were harder for her, but that was as far as it went. She was a high achiever in school, went through college and got her doctorate, married and had children. Asperger's did not stop her, and now, knowing why she is different, her past makes sense to her. This is her story of what life is like with Asperger's.

This is a very short book- shorter than any of the other books on living with Asperger's that I've read- and because of this there is a lack of detail about how she felt growing up and how she dealt with the challenges of not being neurotypical. I almost had the feeling that she didn't really feel that her Asperger's was a big deal. She has a very supportive family, both by birth and by marriage, and a few good friends, and that helps a lot when dealing with any health challenge.

While her personal story is interesting, the heart of the book are the appendices, brief articles on how to make one's life easier when one has Asperger's. Included are good ways to explain to the people around you, how to decide which people to tell,specific suggestions for getting through college with the various problems that come along with Asperger's, employment issues, keeping your home life in order, how to deal with sensory perception problems, and suggestions for the non-Asperger's who care about someone on the spectrum. This section is a short but packed full of useful information like a jewel box of hints.

Recommended for anyone with Asperger's and anyone with someone with it in their life.

misdiagnosed with AS
I have some AS features that were largely due to my troubled upbringing, so I was misdiagnosed with it when I moved in with relatives as a teen.A marriage counsellor assigned me to read this as homework.It contains good insights into many communication barriers and interaction problems we all face.I believe it may be more helpful for women than men.

Book on Asperger Syndrome
Excellent book on Aspergers Syndrome from the perspective of an adult female who has lived with Asperger's.Very helpful to know what the children who are diagnosed with this syndrome are going through and how difficult life can be.Also reassuring to know that a very happy married life can be part of the outcome, given the right partner. ... Read more

Product Description
Drawing its credibility from the author s personal experience both as the mom of a son with Asperger Syndrome and her study of and work with children and adolescents with special needs, this book is especially helpful during the preschool through elementary school years. No stone is left unturned as the author explains, in a friendly, familiar voice, situations and issues that all parents with a child with AS will encounter. As such, the book arms parents with basic, sound information, empoweringthem to seek out the very best services and programs for their child. The book is written primarily for parents of children newly diagnosedwith Asperger Syndrome. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Must Read!
Even as a mainstream middle school teacher I found Jan Johnston's book outstanding. I wish I had read it long ago. I would have been more patient with not only kids with AS but all the other "little darlings" :)too. Whether you have any students with AS or not, this is excellent down-to-earth reading. It gave me a much clearer understanding of the world of Asperger's. Jan's book is meant for moms but it contains excellent advice for all parents, caregivers and educators.

A moms guide to a puzzling disorder.
This book is a very good help to anyone who has a child with Aspergers.I did not know that much about this syndrome until I read this book.It is very easy to read and gives many helpful hints and suggestions.

Wilna Davis
This book is a wonderful guide and handbook for anyone dealing with an Asperger child.It covers recognizing the signs, diagnosis, helpful hints on how to deal in difficult situations and best of all how to enjoy your child who has this disorder.She tells of the many problems one faces trying to get help in schools and much, much more.It is as easy to read as a humorous novel. Every aspect of what one can encounter with an Asperger's child has been explored.This is a publication that has been needed for years. Kudos to the author!

The Mom's Guide to Asperger Syndrome and Related Disorders
Helpful in a very practical way, full of life and humor, precisely the two things one needs in order to do right by a child on the autism spectrum. I have an 11 year old son who was diagnosed with Autism, but who is actually probably an "Aspy". This book has wonderful ideas to help in many situations; QUICK, easy to execute plans of action. The book made me re-think some old notions about Autism and Asperger Syndrome. This book also contains a ton of information for parents with a newly diagnosed child. Man, I wish this book had been around 6 years ago when my son was diagnosed. I had a thousand questions about IEPs, therapies, interventions, disciplines.......the list goes on. Here are virtually all the answers in one place. A great book to get whether you have been dealing with this subject for years, or if you are just starting on the journey and have no idea what to do next.

The Mom's Guide to Asperger Syndrome
this book is fabulous.It is written in a style easy and fast to read.There are many, many Moms who really need this book because there is very little help on this subject. ... Read more

Product Description
Suceeding in College with Asperger Syndrome demystifies the range of college experiences for students with AS. It is a must for these students, their parents and counselors alike, providing benefits that will continue throughout the college years and beyond. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Gives Me Hope for While She's Gone
Good book, aeasy to read.Only downside is that the drinking age for everywhere we interviewed is 21, and only some allowed drinking for 21 year oldsin the dorm, so the book's time spent on how to handle booze was, in my opinion, handled a little cavalier.Perhaps it could've gone more into the benefits of exercise.There are great suggestions made, but no easy way to jump to them after reading for future reference.We had to use sticky notes in the book to draw attention to spots.

This book 'suceeds' with me
Even though I don't have Asperger Syndrome, the text within this book described many challenges I and friends had faced. University administrators and some faculty attempted to talk down to and ignore us only because we were people with disabilities.

Like one of Harpur's suggestions, we formed an impromptu student organization--which DID bring ADA renovations to campus.

I also appreciate the information on sexuality and stress management. Conceding his readers are adults, Harpur does not condescend under the misguided and outdated notion of protecting college students with disabilities. He assumes they will be enrolled alongside students without disabilities.

Plus, he then concedes that despite our making it to college we might still enter with unresolved issues from high school--and dealing with the past proactively is essential to the possibility of a better future.

I've been leery of many 'college student with disability' books. Those other texts remained fixated on having students enroll only at certain campuses across the country regardless of actual options. This implies that disability accomodations are a 'favor' available only from certain schools as opposed to being federal civil rights law.

However, this author took a much different approach. He wants people with disabilities totally aware of our own responsibilities and proactively exercising it on college campuses throughout the country. He wants us in and then completing college because we already knew what to do.

I would feel very good giving this book to ANY college-bound person with a disability.

Great guide!
This book addresses the social needs of Asperger young adults at a very basic, practical level.At the same time it acknowledges the academic brilliance of these young adults, and how they can use their strengths in intelligence to help accommodate for their social shortcomings.

A very handy book
I found this book to be an extremely practical book regarding the survival of Asperger's Sydnrome sufferers in college. Given that the majority of young AS people would end up at college, this book is essential reading.

It outlines a lot of the challenges faced by AS students in college, particularly social challenges. Many of these things are second nature to non AS students, but to the AS students a lot of these things take time and effort to understand and put into practice.

The book is written in a very simple and concise manner, and clearly goes through every logical step of any argument or situation (which is vital for AS sufferers).

That being said, this isn't any sort of 'all answer' of 'cure' book to AS, simply because nothing like that exists. It's simply a handbook that contains practical advice and tips for the AS student.

However, one of the overriding themes of the book was the emphasis on therapy and counselling for the AS student. It seemed as if the end of every paragraph had the recommendation 'see your therapist' or something similar. I grew tired of hearing that point.

Personally, I am a self-diagnosed AS student, a conclusion I reached after, quite by accident, hearing Dr Tony Attwood speak on television one day. I am only just now, almost at the end of my tertiary education, looking into AS in great detail. I only wish that I had had this book when I had first started at university. It would have saved me from a lot of embarrassing moments and awkward situations. However, I draw confidence from the fact that a lot of the methods and tips given in this book I actually developed on my own, before I had any idea about AS.

I personally feel that AS is more common that currently thought (about 1 in 250 people), and that as research into AS continues, we will begin to understand more and more about the syndrome. I hope to one day see programs in schools (particularly at the primary level) to recognise AS in students at a young age and help them deal with the condition.

This book is required reading for anyone who has, or knows somebody who has, Asperger's Syndrome.

Helpful
I have not finished the book yet, but so far, the information is useful for the population of students that I work with. I am interested in starting an Asperger's Support Group and am focusing on the information in the chapter related to that.

Well written. Some of the language is different because it was written in another country. ... Read more

Product Description
The difficulties faced by people with Asperger Syndrome (AS) cannot be underestimated, but the emotional problems experienced by those around them - partners, family and friends - are often overlooked. Focusing on what is referred to as the Cassandra phenomenon, where the neurotypical partner often needs more emotional guidance than the AS partner, this volume gathers together letters, thoughts and poems to give voice to the loneliness, frustration and love felt by many individuals who are close to one or more people with AS. This collection provides the emotional support, insight and understanding needed to deal with the emotions that AS evokes within close relationships.

FAAAS Inc. (Families of Adults Afflicted with Asperger's Syndrome) aims to offer support to the family members of adult individuals afflicted with Asperger's Syndrome. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Too true
I am a wife of 44+ years, and have always had "issues" with my husband that never could get resolved.Finally, a friend suggested researching Asperger's, and 8 books later, he is continuing to be accurately described.He does not know....
This book tells it like it is - certainly not always pretty, and usually tear-jerking when I need to cry.It helps to know that I am not the only one who has felt this way, and others tell it far better than I ever could. Should be required reading for anyone studying Asperger's or working with Asperger's adults.

NT living with AS partner
Excellent book! Highly recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about their AS partner and trying to understand one another.Very helpful to me as I struggle on a daily basis to understand my AS partner.We live separate lives and in "mute" relationship under the same roof since communicating is such a barrier in AS partner.This book is very informative.... I keep it close as a resource guide.

my help line
This book came to me when i was about to give up, no-one seemed to understand me or possibly believe me,it has highlighted so many areas.. the words, "is anyone listening" lets one feel that there is hope and that there are others out there in the same situation.Autism with asperger traits or aspergers alone,there is something for all who have a spouse with the syndrome.This book does give a voice to the frustrations and lonliness that we feel,also how our spouses feel,broadening our understanding and giving us more insight,a must read.

Don't waste your money on this one
Maybe I'm biased because I'm autistic myself, but I had to throw this book away after the poem where the author described being married to her autistic husband as being chained in a dungeon then the next article proceeded to describe a family's autistic son as probably the worst thing that had ever happened to them - I wonder what life is like for the autistic people living in these situations?!I'm so glad I read this before I went to a FAAAS conference - I might have gotten lynched!Don't waste your money with this book . . .

Granted, I understand that it is frustrating for families living with those with autism - I live alone for my own benefit and that of potential roommates, but, especially for people who are married to someone who is autistic - if it is that bad, get out of the relationship - I know a couple where the husband is autistic and the wife is bipolar who have been trying to make their marrige work for 40 years and have failed miserably . . .

If you want to know what it is really like to be an adult autistic, go read something by Temple Grandin, Donna Williams, Dawn Prince-Hughes, Jen Birch, Edgar Schneider, Jerry Newport, or all the other wonderful authors who have taken the time to write books - if you want a positive example of a family dealing with autism read 'A Thorn In My Pocket' by Temple Grandin's mother (who's name I don't have in front of me) - don't waste your money on this one

Great book idea but bad representation!
In the beginning of this book they define the root of this book which is the Cassandra Phenomenon or the "invisible walking wounded." The organizations invented term for the disorder Asperger adults give those close to them.Wow! This says we Aspergers are a mess and doesn't give any great advice. It just says if there not diagnosed get the loved one or friend diagnosed and if your depressed join the club we are to! You have to be kidding. My boyfriend who is typical in all ways and is a doctor agrees the idea to have a book to support the supporters of the Syndrome especially adults is incredibly needed but this book does a poor job.One story I remember is a complaint story of how a wife can't understand her husband with Aspergers and hates it so much they divorce and never speek again with no regrets on her end. If you need a support book of Inspiration for someone like this maybe try Diagnosing Jefferson by the leading international publisher on the syndrome called Horizon. ... Read more

Product Description
A 2002 study from Comprehensive Issues in Pediatric Nursing found that 94 percent of students with Asperger Syndrome face torment from their peers. Indeed, some of their behaviors and characteristics that others see as different make many of these children easy targets for frequent and severe bullying. This book takes a frank look at the different types of bullying and what adults must do to curb bullying, helping prevent the often lifelong effects of this behavior on its victims. Practical strategies and solutions at the school, class and individual level are presented. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

:)
This item came WAY before the expected arrival date and was in the condition the seller stated it would be.I was very satisfied with it :)

A worthwhile investment for parents and educators who want to help these children
Not that different from other children, they seem to attract more bullies than usual. "Perfect Targets: Asperger Syndrome and Bullying" discusses Asperger's syndrome and how young children with the disorder have a higher tendency to be targets of the cruelty of bullies more often than other children their age. With plenty of wise tips and advice for parents to help their children cope with these situations, "Perfect Targets" is a worthwhile investment for parents and educators who want to help these children.

Everyone should read this
This is a great book that should be mandatory for all Special Education staff and administration staff of every school district!This explained things that we knew were there but did not have enough information on.This is extremely helpful.

This is a MUST HAVE if you have a child with Asperger's
Rebekah Heinrichs nails this bullying and asperger's. It's truly well written and the IEP goals, student surveys, countless stories that I kept knodding to all make this book a must have. We didn't have ANY goals last year on bullying. Who would have thought you could? We got through all the educational goals including PT, OT, Speech but never did I think of bullying. I didn't think we'd have to worry about it either but I should have listened to our autism specialist who warned us that nearly 100% of Asperger's children are bullied at some point. :( We weren't prepared last year when it started for our son and things went pretty bad. At the end of the school year last year, we had our IEP planning meeting. We copied the IEP goals from Perfect Targets and with a few minor adjustments, put ourselves in a much, MUCH better situation this year. Things aren't perfect for us but we are in a better situation to deal with the school that truly does want to help but really sometimes just doesn't understand our kids. Remember, they look soooo normal but they need so much understanding and compassion and protection too.

Get copies for your school too instead of re-ordering and paying extra for shipping.

The author has a website for support on any issues dealing with asperger's and she sometimes posts herself too!

UPDATE: What is written above was right when we were having some issues and I wasn't sure if we were headed down the same path as last year which was horrible. We've been working with the school (with the team of staff members and ourselves often referring to this book) and the bullying is almost completely gone. It took an open social worker (new one this year) to give this a chance and try something new. I think the IEP containing goals that deal with bullying makes this an issue that cannot be ignored. But I also think that having the staff read this book opened their minds. I could tell they began to realize that you don't always know who instigates and to take the 'blame' out of it and simply work with the children. Last year we felt nothing but blame on our son from the bully's parents, the kids, the staff. This year they kept an open mind and could see more clearly how things get started and get so mixed up so easily. For example: at one occasion a child was bullying my son (had been for a couple weeks) and my son just stayed away from him at recess time. My son played with another child he gets along very well with. The bully at the time went over, tried to break up their play and when it didn't work, he ran the long way around the recess area, went up to my son's aide who was out there and told her that my son was chasing and hurting him. Well, she saw the whole thing, told this boy he was not telling the truth and she told my son "I know you didn't do it." We almost had a party when we heard that one! Last year, my son would have gotten into trouble for chasing the boy because they would have believed him and not paid so much attention at recess or in the halls... PLEASE get this book!

Essential resource for parents and educators
As a parent of a teen with Asperger Syndrome and an educator, I cannot stress the importance of this book enough. It is an essential resource that is a "must read" for every educator, administrator and pupil support service provider. My child had been severely harassed in her middle school to the point of school refusal. Every day she would beg me not to send her to "hell". As I read Perfect Targets, I saw my daughter's life in middle school unfold upon its very pages. I plan to gift this book to every elementary, middle and high school administrator in my district with the hope that no other AS child will have to endure such physical or emotional pain. ... Read more

Product Description
This updated and expanded edition considersthe continuing dismal employment statisticsfor individuals with ASD. The authorstake an in-depth look at entrepreneurship. Using real-life examples, they point out that many of the unique characteristics of individuals on the autism spectrum lend themselves well to entrepreneurial ventures. The book explores many unnoticed aspects of Vocational Rehabilitation programs that provide job training and placement for people with disabilities, as well as Social Security Administration programs that offer vocational assistance. Employment figures and prospects have been updated, and new jobs have been added that are well suited for those on the spectrum. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

Decent for an emerging professional
As a recent college graduate with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), this book gave me some really good advice about how to get into a career through the 'back-door.' Though I do reasonably well during interviews, the suggestion to supplement an interview with a portfolio was very useful because I can include a link to it on my thank-you emails to interviewers. This way, they have another way to gauge my work rather than relying on what I say or do not say. I thought the worksheets for the informational interviews were helpful along with the chart mapping out special challenges of ASD in the workplace and how one would cope with them. Recognizing my limitations in the workplace and coping with them has helped me be more productive in my current work environment.

Helping Your Children
Temple Grandin is an amazing woman with unparalleled insight to the possibilities for success of Autistic/Asperger's children and young adults.This book has provided great insight and assistance for our family as our twin Asperger sons come of age.

Understanding the possibilities for the "transition plan" from school to the real world is a challenging process. "Developing Talents" helps parents navigate the difficult waters of assisting their children into the world.

Reviewed by:Dr. Jeffrey Wincel (D.Min), author of "Climbing The Mountain of God, The Path to Mystical Discipleship" and "Defying the Trend, Business Ethics and Corporate Morality from a Faith Perspective."

Opening the Door of Understanding
Truly an outstanding effort. Enabled my aspie daughter to greater understand herself and enabled my wife and I to better understand our daughter. Formed the basis for meaningful dialogue that has been absent for many years.

Good book for...
This book will be helpful to teachers and parents that have contact with people with Asperger's or who are high functioning autistic.It would also be helpful for high school age students with autism who are searching for some direction in this all too confusing world.

Great resource!
I have used this book in my practice as a life coach for adults on the autism spectrum. The format makes it easy to use as a discussion guide. The list of resources and web sites at the end of the book are wonderful for enrichment. You don't have to agree with everything in the book. It is a great source for generating conversations around the topics of careers, and the challenges adults on the spectrum meet as they begin their search for a career that is satisfying and that allows them to use their talents to the fullest. ... Read more

Product Description
Published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers January 2001, this workbook is designed as a self-paced guide for mature adults with Asperger Syndrome.Through a complete review of three periods in the reader's work life, this guide assists the reader to compose his/her autobiographical work history based upon understanding the impact of Asperger Syndrome on their employment experiences. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

annoying "exercises" to complete while reading.
The material in this particular book is very helpful. My personal tastes, while not too picky, had me putting this book down and opting not to continue reading. The book is divided into three main parts which focus on different aspects of one's working career. Having said that, I haven't completed the first chapter so there isn't much I can offer beside 'if you don't like taking part in boring mediocre activities that achieve little for a smart person - don't bother with this one'.
The main gist of the text is about finding employment options that suit the individual while avoiding ones that are more demanding on problem areas.
Hope this helps, just not my preferred read.

Not the Workbook for a Young Adult
I thought this would be a workbook to help get and keep a job.Instead it is more of a self journey.Not a bad thing for someone to do, but not what is needed when the person with AS is prone to sabatoging her efforts without realizing it.It would have been nice to have had some assistance in getting the first couple jobs in life.

A Good Idea
I was excited about the workbook concept, because I hoped it would be more helpful than just reading other peoples advice, but because I am the sort of person who thinks about things quite a lot anyway I found that completing the workbook didn't really tell me anything I didn't already know. However, if you want to be provided with a structure for sitting down and seriously thinking about your past experiences of work, this book may help you to understand yourself and find the direction that best suits your needs and abilities... just don't expect it to tell you. If you have no work experience, such as a school leaver, you could still use this book, but I wouldn't recommend it. You could end up focusing too much on the only past experience you have i.e. the education system, and I think you might find that limiting. The book also includes a section covering the issues involved, and is written by a man with Asperger syndrome himself.

If You Have Asperger's, This Book Will Work For You
This is the book adults on the autism/Asperger's (a/A) spectrumhave been praying for.This book is every adult with Asperger's best friend in employment related matters.

This author has shared experiences and described behavior that is part of the a/A spectrum.The insights and explanations that are given help pave the way towards understanding and accomodating adults with Asperger's in the workplace.It is a meeting of the minds; the neurotypical (NT) and the a/A.This book will certainly close gaps and make for a neuroneutral meeting workplace that works for all.

Hats off to this book!

Good book for AS adults who are mid-career.
This book is excellent and very useful for adults with AS or professionals who work with them.I did not find it very helpful, however, for young adults who are just beginning to enter work.This book would be much more useful for adults who are already employed or have been employed for extended periods.For those people, I believe this book is excellent, helpful, easy to work through, and well-written.But if you are looking for something to help an adolescent or young adult with AS, this may contain a few tips, but it probably won't be very helpful. ... Read more

Product Description
This best practice guide offers a balance of conceptual, practical and empirical information designed to bridge the research-to-practice gap in identifying, assessing, and treating school-aged children with autism-related conditions. Assessment tools and intervention strategies will support school-based professionals in: identifying and assessing young people with high-functioning autism spectrum conditions; developing and implementing classroom-based intervention programs; initiating a dialogue between parents and teachers; accessing community resources; and, promoting special needs advocacy. This authoritative, yet accessible guide will appeal to teachers, counselors, psychologists, social work practitioners and graduate students, as well as parents.

"This is a veryimportant book....a landmark contribution destined to become a classic in the field of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs)."  
- Diane Twachtman-Cullen, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, Editor-in-Chief, Autism Spectrum Quarterly

"School district administrators, attorneys, educatorsand psychologists will want to have this guide available to them as a resource on 'best practices' in the field of ASD."
- DianeAdreon, Associate Director, University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD).

"This impressive contribution to the literature on autism andAsperger syndrome is really several reference books in one, providing detailed and expert discussion of key aspects of best practice on screening, assessment, and intervention."  - Richard Mills, Director of Research, National Autistic Society (NAS), United Kingdom

"...a valuable resource that provides best practicerecommendations for the assessment and treatment of children and youth on thespectrum."  - Sean Cameron, PhD, FBPS, Co-Director,  Practitioner Doctorate in Educational Psychology, University College London, United Kingdom                            

... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A Best Practice Guide to Assessment and Intervention for Autism and Asperger Syndrome in Schools
As a practicing school psychologist, I found Dr. Lee Wilkinson's book to be an ideal practitioner guide to screening, assessment, and intervention for students with ASD. The chapters are extremely well written and cover topics such as screening, comprehensive developmental assessment, evidence-based treatments, educational planning, positive behavior support, and social skills interventions. The text includes helpful appendices and real-world case examples to illustrate best practice. "A Best Practice Guide to Assessment and Intervention for Autism and Asperger Syndrome in Schools" is certain to be used widely as an indispensable reference tool on the desks of school psychologists, speech/language pathologists, special educators and other school-based practitioners.

Angelo J DeSimone Ed.D, NCSP, Lead School Psychologist, Palm Beach County School District, Fl. Adjunct Instructor School Psychology Program NOVA Southeastern University, Fl. ... Read more

Product Description
Liane Holliday Willey and one of her daughters both have Asperger Syndrome. In *Asperger Syndrome in the Familyshe looks, with honesty, wisdom and humor, at the implications this has for her family, both the Aspie and the non-Aspie members. Through personal vignettes, frank discussions and practical suggestions for dealing with everything from major to minor Aspie challenges, Liane, her husband and their three daughters bravely open their home to their readers, inviting them to look behind the curtains at their version of Aspie life. Not only does the book underscore the importance of mutual support and respect in an Aspie family - in fact in any family - it offers practical help for families in similar situations. This is a rich and positive book that will speak to all those whose lives have been affected by Asperger Syndrome. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Best book for parents of Aspies
I have read many books on Asperger's Syndrome, but this is the book that will really help you understand people with Asperger's. The author has a terrific perspective from both being an Aspie herself and having a child with Asperger's. It is written very clearly and addresses the issues of concern to parents. This is the #1 book on this topic that I would recommend to parents.

Great Advice For Aspies and Friends and Family, Even if A Little Biased
Liane Holiday Wiley's Redefining Normal: Asperger's Syndrome in the Family is an interesting look in the life of a family with members diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, a condition on the autism spectrum.Wiley does provide insightful and heartwarming tales regarding Asperger's Syndrome in her family, and being on the spectrum herself, she is able to do so much better than a professional or a family member of an "Aspie" would be.However, as in her first book, Pretending to be Normal: Living with Asperger's Syndrome, she often flips back and forth between her belief that being an Aspie is an acceptable way to be and being better now that she's closer to being a Neurotypical (non-Autistic).Also, sometimes she makes blanket statements about what Aspies like and don't like, and doesn't clarify that not all of them are the same.For example, at one part she says, "I am of the opinion that far away is better than near and close", but she doesn't explain that many Aspies feel the opposite, unless she does imply that and I've missed it.In addition, she claims that "while life without touch can be difficult for the NT, life with touch can be just as difficult for the Aspie", which is true, but again, she doesn't clarify, or maybe she doesn't know, that there are some Aspies for which the opposite is true.Also, when explaining about how to hold "proper" conversations, Wiley seems beholden to the idea that there's only way, and does not acknowledge that some people may in fact enjoy the random strings of information that often make up Aspie conversations.Another thing that I'll criticize is while her advice is helpful it's very culturally biased as well.For example, when she educates on how to answer to "how are you?", she says that only doctors need to hear a literal answer, yet I know that in some countries, people who are not doctors ask the question literally, and Wiley does not mention that fact. Also, some of the advice in Appendix II on how to tell if your child may be an Aspie is, frankly, either more applicable for classical autism and not Asperger's (for example, going to the library instead of the cafeteria- an Aspie is more likely to, provided the kids don't have to sit with their classes, want to sit with others, but not have anyone to sit with, and late in acquiring speech- Aspies usually speak when kids are expected to start speaking, or even earlier), or could be applied to many kids, whether autistic or neurotypical (for example, saying inappropriate things, lacking empathy, needing lots of reassurance when things go wrong, not understanding expressions, not being interested in the other's side of the conversation). This is not Willey's fault that she mentions these characteristics, and they do tend to be more noticeable in autistics than neurotypicals, but this is one of the reasons it's hard to diagnose autism in children, because so many behaviors and traits are common in many children. I'm very sorry for my run-on sentences, by the way.
Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy reading this and I think it hold great advice for both Aspies and Neurotypicals, but I would recommend it with the above reservations in mind.

a refreshing look at Asperger's Syndrome
Liane Holliday Willey has written an account of her family's life with Asperger's Syndrome that may make you laugh just as often as it brings a tear to your eye.With great sincerity and a special kind of bravery, Willey exposes herself and her family members with Asperger's in an exceptionally moving manner.Wiley has her doctorate in psycho-linguistics and is an well qualified and eloquent spokesperson for those on the autism spectrum.She is married and has three children.

The author worries about her young daughter with AS."I think about my daughter and her future... I want things to be easier for her. I want the world to work harder when it meets people who are different."Yet she also recognizes the often overlooked strengths and positives of "aspies"."We can teach you to follow the right path instead of the wrong,for few have a moral code as stringent as ours."Willey's book unfolds asa series of reflections and not a biographical sketch. She talks about the ups and downs of aspie marriage, accentuating the positive side of obsessions, and the importance of balance, which can be difficult for the aspie to find and maintain.

Throughout the book, there are helpful bullet points and lists, such as "10 Traits Aspies Struggle With", which begins with number one, inflexible and rigid thinking, and goes on to number ten, language and communication which goes beyond a literal level. There's also the very useful topic, "Socializing the Aspie Way".Here she sets out some critical rules for positive social experiences, such as "keep party gatherings small", "set time limits for your socializing", and "prompt the aspie to rely on an innocuous calming stim when they get too nervous in public."

I highly recommend this book for anyone who wishes to better understand people with Asperger's or Asperger type traits.People with AS are different from the norm, but that doesn't always mean something negative.Once allowed to get close, no friend will ever be so loyal, and few others will have the same drive to learn about subjects of particular interest.

Her advice applies to families of all types
I have read her first book, "Pretending To Be Normal" and thought I was reading about myself.I have never been diagnosed with AS but have suspected that I have it for as long as I have known the condition existed.

This book is a combination of her family's story and advice from her perspective on marriage, child-rearing, and family living based on her experience as an "Aspie", in addition to being the parent of one and possibly the daughter of one as well.Much of the advice would apply to anyone.She does not discuss sexuality, since doing so would go places she might consider too personal to put in a book, but there are other books which address this.

She also mentions things that some people don't think about, like the suicide rate among autistic people (yes, it's much higher than average) and persuades people not to use drugs and alcohol as a substitute for a social life.

I especially appreciated her advice to not be ashamed of yourself or your "Aspie" relative, and on social skills development.

This book wouldn't be applicable to a lower-functioning person, but for someone who can, for instance, go to regular school, it's just right.

Now I'm beginning to understand
It wasn't until I read this book that I finally understood some of what my Asperger's son is going through. Although I have read many clinically oriented books, and I cognitively understood what was going on, it was this book that helped me to emotionally understand him.

This book led me to level with his siblings about his problem and add them to his support team rather than leaving them in the wake of his embarassing behavior and telling them to leave him alone. This book spoke very powerfully about needing and giving comfort to those who are scared -- and all of us are scared of something sometime. The author spoke convincingly of comfort packs that a person can take with them if they anticipate stress and need to be calmed. After reading that, I looked quite differently at my teenagers' Walkmans and my Asperger's son's unusual choice of modern equivalents to his old security blanket.

This book had a very positive effect on how my family has responded to all of our children, but especially my son with Asperger's.

The fact that this book was written by someone with Asperger's has another impact: hope for a supportive and fullfilling adult life for my son.

I would recommend this book to someone who is somewhat familier with the disorder. It wouldn't be the first book to read, but maybe the second or third. ... Read more

Product Description
Most people with Non-Verbal Learning Disorder (NLD) or Asperger Syndrome (AS) are underemployed. With practical and technical advice on everything from job-hunting to interview techniques, from 'fitting in' in the workplace to whether or not to disclose a diagnosis, this book guides people with NLD or AS successfully through the employment field. There is information for employers, agencies, and careers counsellors, including an analysis of typical strengths, and how to use these positively in the workplace. Practical information and resource material is supported by numerous case studies to inspire and advise. This is an essential resource for people with NLD or AS seeking or in employment, and their employers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Finally a book for NLD adults!
I'm 49 years old and never heard of NLD until my son (now 15) was identified with it 8 years ago.Through his journey I realized that I also have NLD.There are several great books for children and teens with NLD but this is the first book I've seen for adults with NLD.Wow, it's nice to finally have something to relate to!Admittedly I haven't finished the book yet but it's been wonderful so far. There's a section called "NLD Voices" in which individuals with NLD talk about their career history that really hit home!This is a great book for the older generation NLDers.

Best book found yet concerning this subject
As a mother looking for information on transitioning into adulthood, I found this book to be a wonderful resource. I first borrowed this book and kept referring back to it so I realized this was a keeper and needed in my library.Our son has even read some of the entries given by adults with nvld and aspergers.He gains from reading their experiences and allows him to think about career choices in a very constructive way.Love the book.(o:

Highly dissappointing
I was hoping for some insight to help my 13 year old make some choices as he enters high school.This book offered me nothing, other than to bring on anxiety because of all the negativity in it.It was full of just chapters of individual Aspie experiences, MOSTLY BAD experiences.Chapter after chapter would say the same thing: try to find what you are good at, then emphasize the positive and try to work around the negatives.

The book offered no real direction or help, just sob stories.

Well Written Tremendous Resource
This book is a very organized employment guide for people with Asperger Syndrome or Non Verbal Learning Disability (AS/NLD) and their friends. It would also be an excellent resource for Vocational Rehabilitation professionals, enabling them to understand these often misunderstood neurological disorders.

After retiring at 63 years of age from a career as an Electronic Engineer I did some research on my lifelong weaknesses. I discovered I had a Nonverbal Learning Disability (NLD) and ran across this book. Having NLD meant that although I was very good at challenging and creative tasks I couldn't easily do things that most people take for granted like folding paper. As one person quoted in the book says, "I am generally quicker than others catching up with all sorts of knowledge and skills that require analytical understanding but I need much more time to get used to different telephones or copiers and to know where to find what."

I wish I had access to this kind of book when I was working. I read it eagerly from cover to cover.

The book, written by someone with NLD, covers the gamut and includes descriptions of what AS and NLD is,biographies of actual people with NLD and AS including what jobs worked for them at what didn't, and information for the AS/NLD person on how to plan a career, how to look for a job and how to function on the job.

Included are lists of resources including organizations and websites.

The book would also be useful for employers who could benefit from the strengths of AS/NLD people and would be willing to accommodate for their small weaknesses. As stated in the book: "Projects that allow the employee to use his/her creativity and problem-solving skills are best. Employersshould value the individual's laser-like concentration ability and understand and respect these employees' work style."

Useful and Insightful
This book is very suitable for people with Asperger syndrome who are conducting their job search independently or semi-independently, and who are interested in finding a career, not just a job. The author herself has Non-Verbal Learning disorder, and a large part of the book is devoted to contributions from other people with Non-Verbal learning disorder or Asperger syndrome, describing their experiences of employment. The later chapters look in depth at the issues, and provide lots of information and advice on the application procedure and dealing with your employers. Interestingly, the author recommends non disclosure to employers, and instead suggests being honest about yourself and how you are without giving people labels. This is definitely a book for people who want to be taken seriously. ... Read more