Living your best life with Asperger's syndrome - Karra Barber

'Every year I read several manuscripts written by mothers about having a child with Asperger's syndrome. The quality of manuscripts varies considerably. As soon as I started to read 'Living Your Best Life with Asperger's syndrome' I knew it was going to be one of my favourite biographies. I was entranced by Karra's descriptions of her son's intellectual abilities, his perspective on life and sense of humour. The anecdotes illustrate aspects of Asperger's syndrome perfectly. Professionals will have the 'Ah ha!' moment, as the descriptions of events and conversations are consistent with the theoretical models of Asperger's syndrome. Both parents and professionals need to read this book, and then other children with Asperger's syndrome will indeed live a better life' - Professor Tony Attwood

'This book is a worthwhile read and written in a very positive way. Many professionals will find the anecdotes evocative and perhaps illumination. There are also useful and practical tips and ideas noted throughout the book. I would happily
recommend it to parents, especially those who are in the early days, post diagnosis and looking for information, ideas and a positive perspective' - Alison Leask, Chair of Autism, Argyll, Scotland

Effectively accommodating the social and academic needs of children on the autistic spectrum is an important task in every school. This book is a practical guide to benefit parents, teachers, Local Education Authorities and international autism organisations.

Each chapter provides a summary followed by anecdotal stories that illustrate a point, describing how a young boy navigates his way through the social challenges that he faces every day.

Issues covered include:

odiagnosis and recognizing the difference;

oproviding support and understanding;

ocommunication;

oconcrete thinking.

The focus of the writing is how to live your best life despite your difference. The book describes the problems and pain Karra faced as her son changed and encountered difficulties at every stage. She also demonstrates her resilience and determination and the book is a celebration of her son and their relationship.

'This is a very accessible book which would be helpful to parents and teachers meeting autism for the first time. The book charts a success story and as such should make an encouraging read. This would be well worth having a parents' group or staff room library.' - Special