Paperback: £12.99 / $19.95
add to cart
2005, 234mm x 156mm / 9.25in x 6in, 272pp
ISBN: 978-1-84310-786-6, BIC 2: VFJD
BG
JNSP
VF
“Voices from the Spectrum is a symphony of rich density thanks to the book’s contributors who graciously share their myriad of perspectives, quests, struggles, hopes, and thoughts on life mingled with autism spectrum disorders. At times easy to read and at times the kind of reading that leaves lumps in the throat and thuds in the heart, Voices from the Spectrum is always honest and genuine. I whole-heartedly recommend it.”
—Liane Holliday Willey, Ed.D., Author of Pretending to be Normal
and Asperger Syndrome in the Family
“This is a masterful collection of essays describing the various personal experiences of autism—it is uniformly poignant, often brutally honest, and always uplifting. Many of the selections were penned by parents who relive the anger, sadness, struggle, and either the gradual resolution of the condition or acceptance of their child’s unique weaknesses and talents. Just as compelling are the voices of other members of the autistic community
including siblings, grandparents and caring professionals. Most surprising and welcome are the contributions of affected adults who can directly offer insights into the inner reality of autism. These include those who relate the sensory issues, social myopia, and learning differences that define Asperger syndrome as well as one of the lucky ones with classical autism whose language and cognitive abilities returned fully after severe regression in early childhood. There are many other places to find definitions of the autistic spectrum, discussions of scientific advances, and resources for supporting the educational, therapeutic or emotional needs of the autistic child. But Voices from the Spectrum is the first comprehensive collection of personal experiences that encompasses the tragedy, the mystery, and the gifts of autism. Thank you for the opportunity for an early look at this fascinating volume.”
—Lawrence W. Brown, M.D., Associate Professor of Neurology & Pediatric,Co-Director Pediatric Neuropsychiatry Program, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
“Drs. Ariel and Naseef have edited a gem of a book. Intended for families of children with autism, Voices from the Spectrum includes poignant essays from parents, grandparents, siblings, and professionals—all of whom have been touched by this vexing condition. Depending on severity, autism spectrum disorders challenge families emotionally, behaviorally, and socially. These carefully edited essays present a rich portrait of families as they come to grips with the vicissitudes of autism. They reflect a kaleidoscope of perspectives, emotions, and coping mechanisms that will help readers sort out their path as they come to grips with the challenges of this disorder.”
—Milton Seligman, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, University of Pittsburgh, Co-author of Ordinary Families, Special Children
“Cindy Ariel and Robert Naseef have put together a unique collection of first-hand accounts of the autistic spectrum, providing a voice for parents, grandparents, siblings, as well as people with Asperger Syndrome. These voices complement the professional perspective and teach us how autism feels to each of these observers. A rare anthology.”
—Simon Baron-Cohen, Professor, Autism Research Centre, Cambridge, UK
“It is with great pleasure that I endorse this collection of essays written by families and professionals who live with and care for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. This book gave me the unique experience of seeing ‘behind the scenes’ with a view of the impact on families of the diagnosis, treatment, and interactions with treating professionals. I recommend that you put this book on your list of required reading for family, friends, colleagues, and trainees to improve care of children and families with autistic spectrum disorder.”
—Susan E. Levy, M.D., Director, Regional Autism Center, The Children’s Seashore House of The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
“Voices from the Spectrum is a beautiful collection of personal essays. A must read for any parent struggling to accept and embrace the diagnosis. This book gives you a rare and heartfelt glimpse of personal journeys of parents, grandparents, siblings, professionals, and adults affected by autism who have found peace of mind, joy in their life, and tremendous personal growth in the process.”
—Nancy D. Wiseman, Founder and President of First Signs, Inc.Author of Could It Be Autism? A Parent’s Guide to the First Signs and Next Steps
Voices from the Spectrum is a compelling collection of personal accounts from people on the autism spectrum and those who care for them, including professionals, friends and family members. The essays in this collection tell of both the positive and negative effects of autism on individuals and families, and pose the question: is a diagnosis on the autism spectrum a puzzle to be solved, or something to be embraced and accepted?
The broad scope of this book presents insights into the autism spectrum from many different perspectives – from first-hand accounts of the autistic child’s school and childhood experiences to parents’ and grandparents’ reactions to a diagnosis. A number of chapters written by professionals explain their motivations for working with autistic people and reveal what they have learned from their work and how it has affected their lives. The contributors describe experiences of autism from the mildest to the most severe case, and share their methods of adapting to life on the spectrum.
Voices from the Spectrum will appeal to a wide readership of adults and younger people on the autism spectrum, their families and friends, as well as practitioners.
Robert A. Naseef
