Ask and Tell: Self-Advocacy and Disclosure for People on the Autism Spectrum

Rating:
Summary: I Want to Tell You
Review: This book is the answer to every person on the autism/Asperger's (a/A) spectrum's prayer. People with Asperger's are empowered with knowledge of what this neurobiological condition entails and how to act as their own advocates. For people on the a/A spectrum, please make this book your best friend. It will certainly pave the way down the Long & Winding Road to social acceptance.

Tacit Social Codes & Rules are often ambiguous and confusing to those on the a/A spectrum. This book does an excellent job of demystifying those rules. Another road block people with Asperger's face is being misinterpreted -- what seems clear and direct and perfectly a propos to somebody on the spectrum sometimes comes over as a social faux pas. George Harrison explained this aspect very well in his 1966 classic, "I Want to Tell You," with the lyric "but if I seem to act unkind, it's only me, it's not my mind. That is confusing things."

One of the major challenges people with Asperger's contend with is determining whether or not to disclose this diagnosis and if so, to whom. This book helps clarify many of those questions and serves as a link to communicating with the neurotypical (NT) population.

I love this book!

Rating:
Summary: HELPFUL and UNIQUE
Review: This is a one-of-a-kind resource that educators (and so many others) will find very helpful. The subject of disclosure (how, when, where, who) is not commonly covered in other texts on autism and disability-- even though it is so important. Educators and other support people will learn so much from the voices of these individuals on the spectrum. My favorite chapter is Stephen Shore's (author of Beyond the Wall) piece on how students with disabilities can participate in their own educational programs- it is such a practical AND a thoughtful chapter. Shore gives dozens of great examples of how even the youngest child can serve as an agent in his/her own life and education. Thumbs WAY up on this unique and helpful text!