Collected by: Karen E Rodman, FAAAS Inc
Reviewed by: Carol Grigg, GRASP Support group for Partners of Adults with Asperger's Syndrome, Sydney
Published by:
Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Available from: Footprint
Books, www.footprint.com.au
When I first became aware of “Is Anyone Listening?” I felt a certain reluctance to read it, perhaps a sense of exhaustion and trauma at the thought of hearing other people's experiences when my own experience was so raw and overwhelming for me already.
I remained vaguely aware of the book but sought out other books that I thought would have more positive, practical information and guidance so far as strategies to employ to improve areas of difficulty. There are several excellent books like this, such as “The Other Half of Asperger Syndrome” and “Asperger's in Love” both by Maxine Aston and “Asperger's Syndrome and Long-Term Relationships” by Ashley Stanford. These books are invaluable and have assisted many in their understanding and ability to change the ways they approach their Asperger Partners.
However, upon finally reading “Is Anyone Listening?” I was surprisingly warmed and delighted by the way the book is constructed and what it contains. It is a mixture of people's stories in essay and verse, intermingled with short chapters of information and summary to assist an understanding of AS in adults and its impact within a family context. The book gives a true and empathic picture of the reality of AS for all members of the family.
The foreword and afterword are the wise and wonderful words of our favourite psychologist, Tony Attwood and all the chapters and sections in between are written with clarity and grace by people who know the pain and reality of what we, the families of someone with AS, know as daily life experience.
An easy read, no heavy psych talk and an excellent resource for sharing with family, friends and unconvinced professionals. |
