Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism

In a field where many of the books on autism are written by outsiders who perpetuate myths, stereotypes, and negative images of autism - or at best, that autistic individuals deserve respect despite their wildly different and often bizarre behavior - Dr. Prizant's take on autism as a unique way of being human is refreshing. Through explanation of concepts and theories, backed by real life examples throughout his extensive career, Prizant highlights the universally human underpinnings of behaviors in autistic individuals that many might not understand. An autistic person who repeats the same question over and over despite being answered the first time? How many neurotypical kids ask "are we there yet" ad nauseum on long car trips? An autistic person flicking their fingers repeatedly? How many neurotypical people twirl their hair to help focus or chew gum to calm their nerves? The perspective shift in "Uniquely Human" is one sorely needed in the world and Prizant writes in a way that is accessible by anyone and very easy to read. With a blend of stories and concepts, the book never gets boring or drags, but rather keeps a comfortable pace. Anyone with a loved one with autism would benefit from reading this book as would every professional who does or might work with an autistic individual. After reading "Uniquely Human", I told a friend of mine who is a principal that *this* would be the book her teachers and staff should read for ongoing autism education. Not only does the book provide an excellent perspective shift, it does so in a way that addresses how to tackle many of the struggles that caregivers, educators, and others have in understanding and supporting autistic individuals. To be honest, I had avoided this book for several months because I thought the title would be an exercise in trite condescension of the autistic community, but I found it to be genuine and respectful of the dignity of everyone. For those who are somewhat familiar with the neurodiversity community, the one caveat you should know is that Prizant acknowledges that many adult autistics prefer an identity first language (autistic person) as opposed to a person first language (person with autism), but chooses to use a person first language without much explanation as to why. Aside from that, which I realize can be very significant for many, I found "Uniquely Human" to be the perfect introduction to autism book in terms of hands-on application. If you are looking for a good understanding of the historical development and story of autism as a diagnosis and the emergence of the neurodiversity movement, I highly recommend "NeuroTribes" by Steve Silberman. If you are a parent, grandparent, caregiver, teacher, administrator, etc., please read this book.

My favorite book on Autism. Many different stories on several individuals with autism. I gift these books as Christmas gifts to all of my son’s teachers, paraprofessionals, and therapists. It’s a great read for anyone wanting to learn and understand these amazing people on the Autism Spectrum!

My nearly 5 year old grandson was diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum over two years ago. Thankfully he and his parents live where the public school system has a great preschool program for students on the spectrum. He recently completed his second year, and he is developing nicely as a unique human. We look forward to this Fall when he will start kindergarten. Barry Prizant’s book has been invaluable in helping me understand more about how our grandson perceives and interacts with his world. Fortunately, his parents have understood that they need to help him maximize his ability to enjoy a full life. As grandparents my wife and I follow their lead, but also try to allow him to teach us about him and how we can be our best for him. This book provides insights, but it also reinforces what we have been sensing. I like how Dr. Prizant uses insights from autistics with whom he interacts. Being brave connected with me. Our daughter told us her son was singing the Danielle Tiger song - “I can be brave!” as they walked home from a neighborhood birthday party. It had taken her three tries over an hour’s time to negotiate with him on going to the party! He loved the bounce house, and was obviously happy that he went to the party. We are in awe of his courage.

The perspective of how to view the autistic child and how they fit into the world / grow up is shown in many years of experience from this Dr. It is caring and also insightful. Follows many examples of kids and how they and their parents navigated various scenarios. This gives invaluable context to those parents with a new diagnosis beyond clinical descriptions of autism or autism resources. It is not written by someone with autism, so if you are looking for that, look at Asperger's from the inside out or some other relevant book.

One of the better new books on Autism, font size (regarding reading book) bit small, but otherwise can read and get it. Sadly so few books of any value done in Australia, hence again a USA publication. Does cover Autism in Adults despite kids on cover. Many rubbish books on Autism as a 'disease' or as 'super special' - both wrong. This one avoids those traps. For those who want another option regarding a good Autism account, look up recent books by Digby Tantum, a UK author. Delivered fine, no problems.

Very easy to read and gives lots of insights. Great approach!

Serviço de entrega e o conteúdo do livro são excepcionais. A qualidade do papel escolhido é horrível (papel de gibi)! Você tem dificuldade de fazer anotações, com medo de rasgar as folhas. Uma obra desse naipe deveria ter tido um tratamento editorial diferenciado. Lastimável!

Feels like reading a anger management book. Meditation learning book. Examples given are so unrealistic. Nothing new to lear as a parent. May be for someone who doesn't has a child yet but for someone who already has kids its useless.

A well written & researched book, provides an alternative way of looking at ASD & associated behaviours.

This is a great read for Any parent or professional dealing with differently abled children adn adults. It makes for a beautiful read with insights into how understanding and embracing the child with his/her abilities and disabilities however small or big they may be. Would definitely recommend.