Been There. Done That. Try This!: An Aspie's Guide to Life on Earth

A considerable amount of insight about Asperger syndrome and autism spectrum disorder (ASP) has been acquired in recent years. This accessible compendium of life advice, intended specifically for those with Asperger syndrome (or who have otherwise been diagnosed with high-functioning autism (HFA)) collects personal stories and strategies solicited from Asperger ‘mentors’--people who have already been coping with the disorder for many years and have nonetheless found ways to lead fulfilling and balanced lives. The book is structured around a ranking (developed by one of the editors) of the 17 worst stressors for those with Asperger’s/HFA, with sequential chapters addressing those stressors (such as ‘Overcoming Anxiety,’ ‘Living with Meltdowns,’ and ‘getting and Keeping a Job’) in order from highest to lowest. Contributor passages are friendly, conversational and supportive. Artwork thematically linked to the 17 stressors is reproduced in 16 color plates in the center of the book, and is effectively another mentor contribution (at least one of the artists is a person with Asperger’s); the artworks are also referenced and described at the end of each related chapter. Contributor pictures and profiles appear at the end of the book, further personalizing the intended mentor relationship between contributors and readers. Annotation ©2014 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)