Developmental-disabilities Books

This book is very helpful and informative. I didn't know much about AS previously. The author has extensive clinical experience with AS patients. He includes his own insights as well as those of other people. He includes many descriptions and examples. I am only half way through the book, but I am recognizing many symptoms in my teenage daughter. It explains alot! Even things I would not have connected with AS. This book is not negative in any way. I feel very good about who my daughter is, and understand better why she is the way she is. AS people are very special and gifted. AS people can contribute to the world in ways the rest of us cannot. This book also has some "coping" suggestions, such as how to help the AS person recognize social cues. I would recommend this book to anyone curious about Aspergers Syndrome.

It has now been several months since reading Tony Attwood's excellent book and I have pulled it out to read again. It provides invaluable insights into myself and many people that I know.

Tony's light-hearted approach keeps it readable. As he says, he has discovered a means of removing almost all of the symptoms of Asperger's from a person. Simply put that person in a room, by themselves, alone. The symptoms have now disappeared.

When it comes time to understand what happens when other people are in the room with someone who has Asperger's Syndrome, then read this book.

Mike Mazzetti

A very informative and comprehensive text. This book is a great reference for anybody. It's certainly the best book that I've found for grown-up Aspies. Sometimes it seems like everything else that's been written on Asperger's Syndrome is directed towards "parents of children with."

As a Grandparent of a 12 year old boy with Asperger's, this book has been great in answering the many questions we, as his extended family, have. It also offers suggestions as to how we may help him reach his full and magnificent potential.

As, a teacher, I was afraid that the proliferation of titles dealing with Asperger's Syndrome was the "flavour of the month", but Tony Attwood gives a full and detailed explanation of the origins of the research and why we are only just hearing about this syndrome. The best part is that after reading this book, I have started to look at some of my "problem" students in a completely new way. Attwood not only explains why they are the way they are, but also gives expert advice about how to best cope with children (and adults) who are not easy to cope with. I say this last sentence deliberately, as Attwood points out that we must cope with them, as they are the way they are and they do not change. The condition is genetic, lifelong and stable. The book is a treasure trove of information and helpful ideas.

Luke Jackson, the thirteen-year-old author of this book, says he wrote it because "so many books are written about us, but none are written directly to adolescents with Asperger Syndrome. I thought I would write one in the hope that we could all learn together." And he does an amazing job of appealing to his peers in a colloquial manner. Jackson's style is almost precocious at times, but effective. He tackles many topics, includinging sensory perception, physiology, and sleep, listing some helpful tips. For example, Jackson suggests to look at people's mouths when they're talking, which is close enough to making eye contact.The section on physiology discussed, among other things, the GF/CF diet.

Next Jackson writes about language difficulties, dealing with slang and idioms, and suggests to parents that they write out steps to complete a task and give clear and specific instructions. The next chapters cover school problems and bullying, with some tips for dealing with bullies, stressing that it's important to tell someone. Jackson then mentions Taekwondo for self-defense, as well as the many other benefits it provides. The following three chapters deal with friendships, dating, and morals and principles. The "morals and principles" chapter also is beneficial in that it stresses not to let people entice you to do something that is wrong, that you don't need friends like that.

The end of the book has a nice positive note about AS people being amazing in their own ways, even if not savants (after a discussion about the movie Rainman). It is certainly amazing for a thirteen-year-old to write such an organized, insightful book. I found it to be very helpful, including the appendices on idioms (with definitions of being "on cloud nine" and "don't cry over spilled milk") and references for further information (books, websites, and organizations). All in all, a worthwhile book for parents and kids alike.

I read it, my Dad read it in 2 days. Very practical, humorous.When my son, with Asperger's, gets a little older, I will give this book to him. I want to meet Luke Jackson. What a great personality!

This book is a keeper. Luke speaks from experience and shares his experience and suggestions for kids with aspergers, parents, friends and physicians on how a an AS kid can handle real-life situations by sharing what has worked for him. This book is an easy read and would be good for teens and adults to read whether they have AS themselves or are related to or know someone who does.

This was a great resource for us as parents of an Asperger son to get an idea of how the adolescent with Asperger thinks and relates to others. It will eventually be a great book to let our son read. The adolescent author of this book feels very strongly that all Asperger children should be told what they have (by name) so that they won't feel like something is wrong with them, but will come to understand that they are the way they are because of Aspergers.

This book is intended for a person with Asperger's however, it can also be used by a child being bullied.

I am an occupational therapist that works in the school system and this book has
GREAT ideas from the beginning of the book to the end. It's a "Must have"
book for anyone who works with kids with autism. Great ideas!!! Mariann

I absolutely love this book! The ideas in this book are clear and concise. There is no technical jargon. Everything is in laymen's terms. No unnecessary wordage throughout the book It's exactly what it says it is. Strictly ideas, laid out in an easy to read format.

This book is a must have for a person who has someone anywhere on the spectrum. Not only will this book stay on my bookshelf for a long time, I bought copies for my family members.

Full of practical information. A must have. Another book I've found helpful is He's Not Autistic But...: How We Pulled Our Son From the Mouth of the Abyss

Of all the books I've purchased on the subject of Autism, this one is by far the best one. I was so tired of all the clinical, academic, despairing accounts of ASD in other books, that I stopped reading any material on Autism altogether.

But, this book is completely packed with not only great ideas for teaching and raising our child with ASD, but for ENJOYING our child with ASD!! Finally! The authors bring a sense of sweet humor to daily life, with a real-life sensibility that is missing from every piece of Autism literature I've seen. Instead of focusing on the "differences" we face every moment of every day, the authors just dig in and get to the business of enjoying each "challenge". For instance, the idea that "You Don't Have To Brush ALL Of Your Teeth" was so simple yet so freeing! Every idea offers several different variations, which I found to be very helpful.

This is a must read for anyone working with or parenting an Autistic child. Full of useful ideas.

My 8 year old Asperger daughter related to the boy in the book. She claimed, "He does some of the same things I do." I've shared the book with friends, family, school students and personnel. A quick easy way to educate those not familiar with Asperger's. Illustrates some common issues that Asperger kid's have to face and the resultant behavior.

This is an absolutely wonderful book to help both the child with Asperger's and his friends and relatives. Not only does it explain in easy to understand language what may happen under stressful situations but how difficult situations may be successfully addressed. As Grandparent's of a 12 year old grandson with Asperger Syndrome we highly recommend this book to teachers, family, and friends.

This book is a fantastic tool to use with family, friends, school personnel and your child's classmates to help explain in very easy terms what asperger syndrome is and how others can help the person with aspergers have a happy and fulfilling life. I have read this book to my son's last three classes since he was in 2nd grade, and it has really helped the students in each class better understand him. He is well liked, much better understood when his behavior might seem "different" or "odd" to the neurotypicals in his class, and one of his classmates even told her mom she was sure Jack would never be bullied because I have read this book to his classes and everyone loves Jack. I really can't say enough about this book. I have given copies to my son's case managers, teachers, one on one aides, school library, special ed department and countless friends who also have children with aspergers. I highly recommend this book!!

This is a good book. Short and very discriptive. With good helpful tips. I have a 7 yr old but, I didn't have him read this yet. I don't think he would get it yet. But, later it will be good for him to read. It is a great tool to let teachers read to help them understand your child with Asperger Syndrome. We are new to this and it was helpful to me.

It is important to remember with any book you purchase regarding Aspergers and Autism that people on the Autism spectrum are not "cookie-cutter-cases". Each person is an individual and no book will cover ALL aspects. This book is written in a childs voice and is very easy to understand. Are you going to walk away from reading it profoundly enlightened? No. Are you going to have a more simplistic understanding of the day to day situations and life of a child with Asp? Yes. I purchased this book for my son's grandparents, his older brother and for him. It gives him a voice and something to relate too (not on all issues, but most). The book is extremely easy to read and fast. I read through the entire book in under an hour while helping my son with his homework. A great addition to your personal and lending library.

I am a special educator who is always looking for new inspiration for my on-going teaching. This book warmed my heart. I could relate to the stories as if I had written them myself. Like the other Chicken Soup Books I have read, the editors have truly chosen a nice sample of stories of people who have achieved much, struggled long and hard, and continued living their lives to the fullest. This book can help people who wonder what special needs people can do. This book is a source for inspiration to help special needs children to live their lives to the fullest. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.

I was so excited to receive this book. I read it cover to cover in 3 days. The stories are all very good. They help "connect" anyone who knows or cares for a child with "special needs". I would see little glimpses of my 8 year old son in different stories and if not the "same" I could relate to the situations and the emotions. On those really rough days, it helps to know that there are others out there that know just how you feel. It gives the inspiration to keep going. "Special Needs" kids definately are SPECIAL.........they help us to remember what is important. Thank you for this collection of stories.

Wonderful book! I love that the beginning starts with the story Welcome to Holland. I have a daughter with special needs and reading Welcome to Holland expresses what having a child with special needs can be like. My daughter is such a beautiful blessing to our family and a spot of sunshine to all who meet her. You could be having the worst day and a smile from her will turn you around. You can't help but smile back.
I would recommend this to anyone who has a child with special needs no matter what the age. It will inspire you. To any one who knows someone,is friends with someone,loves someone or cares for someone with special needs you will be inspired and touched reading the wonderful stories.

A warm and genuine compilation of inspiring stories from those that have walked the walk...sure to bring a smile to anyone who has worked with children with disabilities, and a tear to those who are just starting on this journey.
The Bubel/Aiken Foundation receives a share of the proceeds from this book~what's not to like?

I was so excited to get this book right when it was released but was generally disappointed in it. There were many VERY good stories that I absolutely loved, but overall there was something about it that lacked the really personal connection and everyday stories. I found myself skipping over stories and still never finished the book to the end. I have 2 kids with special needs one with Down syndrome and one currently undergoing testing for Autism, and I SO desperately wanted to Love this book.

I guess I expected it to be written from a Caregivers perspective (parents, grandparents, teachers, etc). When it seemed like more than half of the contributers have already had their stories published by Chicken Soup books or other big name publications, not just your average person. And I caught the names of 2 contributers in this book that each have 2 of their stories in this special needs edition. (many already published in MANY other Chicken soup books)

To me it almost feels like the creators of Chicken Soup sent out a staff email asking for any stories involving a person with special needs... I remember reading one story written about a typical person's high school days and her encounter with a girl with special needs and what she wishes she would have talked to her. Nothing about reaching out to her and building a friendship, even if years later. As a parent, I would have loved to read about how this person affected a persons life, not how she felt guilty about being afraid of a disabilty (that's exactly why I want to shelter my children)- Didn't leave a warm and fuzzy feeling. But I guess her article was accepted because her career happens to center on people with disabilites???
I know there are millions of people out there that could contribute more personally touching stories. I just wanted more "average people" doing great things stories. Just by compararing random biograpies of the stories I wanted more people like the contributor Chynna Tamara Laird- average mom advocating for her child. In the bio of contributer S. Thompson it states "she has had stories in 10 Chicken soup books" and her job is writing, not advocating for disabilities or living it first hand.

It does have some great stories, but I just couldn't relate to the book overall and I expected to not want to put it down. I felt like I would read 2 good stories then 2 stories that lacked connection.... SORRY... I really wish I could Love it.

It took me a year and one failed order due to relocation to finally get this book. Definitely worth it.

This book encompasses the growth of Rob's life and his marriage to Julie, along with his leap into parenthood. The introspection is a sad, funny, and in a few ways shocking (even for longtime website readers) journey undertaken during Schuyler's life. The love for her is beautiful to read, and the challenges Rob and Julie have faced for her are admirable and inspiring. I hope to use Rob's blog (or subsequent books if he does any) to continue to watch Schuyler grow and succeed beyond all expectations as she takes on the world.

Simply put, Robert Rummel-Hudson's Schuyler's Monster is a must read for every parent and educator. With raw emotion, he tells the story of his family's journey through the maze of parenting a child who appears perfect and yet somehow, something is not quite right. Rummel-Hudson doesn't hold back, he writes honestly about his wife's and his own efforts and reactions, as well as those of all the professionals that they encounter along the way. In doing so, he has created an accurate picture of the limitations of the medical and educational services available to some. Unfortunately, many people don't even have that.

As a special education teacher for 27 years, I hate to admitted that 30 years after PL 94-142 was passed, we don't have more to offer. Public education will always be a work in progress. Perhaps Schuyler's story will help move that work in the right direction. Which is why you need to read it.

You say your not a nonfiction reader? Never fear, this book reads like a novel. Rummel-Hudson keeps the story moving, making it interesting, entertaining and humorous. Warning! You may just become a dedicated blog reader, so you can keep up with Schuyler's journey.

I couldn't put this book down. I'm pretty picky about what I read and this was a beautifully written story, worth every minute I spent with it.

I found this book in the Black Oak bookstore on a recent day trip to Berkeley with my youngest daughter (the one who was never 100% neurotypical), and it's turned out to be the best possible souvenir of a wonderful day. Unfortunately, thanks to Robert Rummel-Hudson and his improbably funny, engaging style (how many books about neurological disorders and fights with special education administrators can lay claim to having many laugh-out-loud moments??), I've gotten no housework, homework, cooking, cleaning or other reading done in the three days since I acquired the book--and I got a lot of funny looks from the other parents at the neighborhood water park today, as I sat, happily oblivious to the periodic spray of water cannons, laughing wildly like Schuyler over my book while my kids played nearby. Thank goodness the author keeps a blog, so now that I've finished the book I don't really have to say a final goodbye to him or to Schuyler--I can just keep tabs on them periodically, and make sure they're doing okay and continuing to thrive in Plano.

This is a beautifully written story I would recommend to anyone. It had personal meaning to me as I have a child with special needs.

I just received this book which I have been meaning to buy for a while. I thoroughly enjoyed it and couldn't put it down. Mr. Shore did a great job not only taking us through his life's journey through autism, but also sidelining it with various observations. I am always amazed at those who ventured on the autism spectrum before the word autism was even recognized by many people. Reading books written by those with autism offer such wonderful insight and perspective. I highly recommend this book for parents who are trying to better understand their child with AS as well as those with AS who are navigating high school and/or college futures. There are some great suggestions and ideas.

I especially like how Mr. Shore talked about many of the jobs he held and why he succeeded or what he learned from his not so successful job situations. I think having a supplemental book on this subject alone would be very worthwhile...especially if it came from a variety of viewpoints. Hmmm.

Great Job!
Joanna Keating-Velasco
In His Shoes, A Short Journey Through Autism
A Is for Autism F Is for Friend: A Kid's Book for Making Friends with a Child Who Has Autism

This articulate man gives us an autobiographical view at the difficulties faced as a person with high-functioning autism or Asperger's Syndrome grows up and tries to join the working world. It is tough, and he is often misunderstood, yet he very intelligent and has a great deal to offer the world. Although he will always have his "social skills" disability, it is heartening that he is now happily married and has found a career path.

Very interesting to read first hand what it is like to live with autism.The author's accomplishments are amazing, but also his awareness of his limitations. A good book to learn more about this condition, also easy and enjoyable reading.

I have two young children on the autism spectrum. My constant fear and therefore my constant drive is to help them be independent and happy in their lives. Fortunately, both have very mild forms, one PDD and one autism. So, as I watch and learn from their ways of learning, I find that first, I have many quirks, and then can see those quirks in others. It is a fascinating way to look at the differences in how we all learn. In many ways, we are all on the autism spectrum.

This was an easy read, and one that would be of interest to those studying in the field. It is not too full of jargon, and can easily be read by all. This is a field woefully undertaught to teachers seeking certification.

Would like to meet you, Stephen....

I recently had a young family member diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome and wanted to know more about experiences and views from persons with Asperger Syndrome. I believe Stephen was able to inform the reader of what it is like to exist in a world without having the social skills we non Aspies take for granted. The book lets one know the challenges that might exist in the future for someone diagnosed with Aspergers during an early age.

In February of 1961 when Jeff Apple was born, very little was known about autism. Autism research, still in its infancy literally grew up with Jeff.

The boy first displayed alarming behavior at 2, during the late summer of 1963. His sister Jane, 5 and brother Bobby, 12 were naturally frightened to see Jeff battering himself. The summer of 1963 saw Jeff's first trip to emergency for Self Injurious Behaviors (SIB).

Jeff's alarming behavior escalated over time; no day care could keep him for very long as few people were able to meet his needs. Finally, in 1967 a special program opened that accepted Jeff. A well-trained staff were able to work with the boy and even taught him self-care skills. Jeff made some progress, but remained largely nonverbal and his SIBs continued escalating. In 1968 the boy demolished his grandparents' Recreational Vehicle; he would roam the house at night and smash things.

By 1970, Jeff's behavior had deteriorated to where he needed constant care and his immediate family needed respite. On January 14, 1971 Jeff was enrolled at the Murdoch Institute, a place where he stayed for the remainder of his life.

At Murdoch, Jeff was closely monitored; restrained; given light electric shocks when he attacked himself and was rewarded with trips to various staff members' homes. Jeff also enjoyed visits to his own home. Luckily, the Happy Time School which provided Jeff his first taste of school success took him intermittently; he still remained under the protective wing of Murdoch.

Sadly, Jeff's clock ran out of time in January of 1990. He died at age 28 from self inflicted injuries.

This book is as rich as the beautiful North Carolina country side where Jeff lived; the rich descriptions of North Carolina and the inclusion of Scripture added hope and color to this personal account. One thing that was evident throughout this book was the unconditional love the Apples had for Jeff; at no time is this ever called into question. One can only hope that Jeff has found peace at last and that Patricia Apple, widowed for several years can take comfort in knowing she, George and their older children did everything possible to ensure a life of humane quality for Jeff. Despite the misleading statement of the title song, "God Didn't Make Little Green Apples," a singularly inane song, one can liken the "green Apple" image to Jeff. Green apples need time to ripen and they need more love and guidance.

I recommend you read Thelma Wheatley's "My Sad Is All Gone," a book about another young man with severe autism who displayed SIBs. (Interestingly, the two young men have linked or similar themed surnames, Julian Orchard and Jeff Apple). These two books go together well, like Lennon & McCartney.

In this book, the quality of the human spirit shows itself in it's mightiest face...that of unconditional love. Beautifully written, eloquent in it's reality, the author takes us right there. We are in the Apple's home & lives...we smell the bacon on that first day...& then we feel the first suspicions along with Jeff's mother. Ultimately, we feel the love, the hope, the frustration, the fear & sadly, the grief. We are there in the silent moments, the sunny moments, the despairing moments & the final moments. Our hearts go out to the Apples, their courage, fortitude & dignity...but most of all for their love. No parent should let this book pass them by, no parent who picks this book up will put it down, particularly any parents of special children. This book is for every caring human being, parent or not, as they will not, can not, walk away from it untouched .. or uninspired.
On a personal note, I was told I should read this book with with a box of tissues to hand. Being a person not much inclined to tears, I took that advice with a grain of salt. My mistake. The only salt around me when I read Spinning Straw was in my eyes & on my face, as it is at this moment recalling the book as I write this review. A "must read".
To Patricia Apple, a woman of indomitable courage & to Phyllis Green, who weaves words into pictures, all my respects.

Spinning Straw... It's a great book. It's written as if you are living the experience. You really feel like you know the characters, especially Jeff! The book shows so much love and caring, it makes you want to do the same if you don't already. I recommend the book because it's jsut plan excellent!! you'll see as soon as you buy it! And the author, well she's great too! The best in the world; take it from someone that knows her personally. Great Book, way to go P. Green

I could not put this book down! It made me cry, it made me angry, but most of all, it made me glad there are people in the world like Phyllis Jean Green who care enough to write this painful but SOARING story about autism and self-injurious behaviour.

This non fiction shows the struggles of a family raising an autistic child with SIB at a time before information is available about the disability. The author, Phyllis Green, brings this family into the hearts and souls of the reader. The book is also illustrated with actual photographs of the family. Spinning Straw is a plus for a remarkable movie about real life situations of families who are faced with the struggles that stem from disabilities like autism. Green's language is down-to-earth and pragmatic. She brings tears, laughter and the real life of the family into full circle.

An absolutely wonderful book even if you aren't interested in pursuing an assistance dog it is a must read. The authors ability to share not only her family's experience but others as well is deeply touching. I found it informative, educational and heartwarming.

THE GOLDEN BRIDGE is a wonderful book about working with dogs with special needs children with a primary focus on children with developmental disorders and particularly children with autism. Patti Dobbs, along with other guest writers, have a child with autism. They generously bring you into their lives to share the pain and the joys of having a child that is "different". They all explain the isolation from other families and the beautiful effects that a dog can have in healing.
There is compelling information about the significant benefits of dogs in the lives of families with special needs and children in classrooms, as well as instructions on training or finding dogs to be a part of families or therapy sessions. Excellent!

Patty Dobbs Gross presents an inspirational story of her personal struggle and triumphs as she tries to find the best resources for her son with autism, one of which is a service dog. Patty is honest and direct as she explains her feelings of isolation, frustration, and sometimes even anger and embarrassment with friends, the school system and Danny's peer group. Later chapters in the book focus on training and incorporating service dogs into the lives of children with developmental disabilities. These chapters are contributed by experts in their fields and should act as a model for any service dog organization.

This is the definitive text on the use of assistance dogs for autism from an author who has placed more dogs for autism in the United States than anyone else. She speaks with authority and the compassion of a mother who has raised a child with autism through the assistance of a service dog. I highly recommend this book to all those with a family member who is affected by autism.

This was a great book with a great deal of useful information. My only caution is that you need a box of Kleenex when you read some sections...it is very moving. This book gives great insight into how a well trained dog can help with an Autistic child. It also gives useful information on how to train a dog to work with an autistic child but it is not a do it yourself book...professional help is needed.

This book needs to be distributed to every parent upon receiving a diagnosis for their child. Each chapter starts with a success story, giving parents a hopeful look at what can be accomplished, and ends with helpful tips and resources. It takes the reader through every aspect of living with a disability and encourages parents to "raise the bar". Thank you Judy, for your inspiration!

This is a wonderful book! Like having a good friend walk you through having a child with special needs. It is a very positive book and makes you feel better about your life, your child, and your future.

Breakthrough Parenting for Children with Special Needs truly helps parents to see their son or daughter in a unique light. Many practical helps and hints, if followed, will help any child reach his or her potential and, quite possibly, surpass the expectations of professionals. Believing in your child is worth more than any test or diagnosis. This book shows parents how to love in practical and proven ways.

This book is exactly what we all need. Straightforward easy to understand information about taking loving care of your special needs child. Resource full. A great tool for us all.

I am so happy I have this book, it brought tears to my eyes as I have been reading it. I have a daughter who is now almost 7 years of age, who has special needs. I have been through so much with Doctor's and testing, and sometimes forget about what else is going on in life. I think anyone who's going through a challenge with their child being a little different from the rest, should own a copy of this book. It's sense that should be common, for both parents and doctor's.

Being the mother of 4, with 3 who are absolutely normal, I feel even more blessed with having 1 child who is different, and this book really confirms I'm not alone in thinking that way. Thank you Judy, for taking the time to write this book. I hope every parent going through these sorts of challenges, is able to read this book!