Darold A. Treffert MD noted psychiatrist and expert on savant autism and consultant to the film Rain Man introduces the writers and their chapters. Dawn Prince PhD discusses how her observation of gorillas led to insights into communication and a career as a primatologist. Stephen Shore EdD reveals interventions his parents developed much ahead of their time, and strategies he developed for himself. Liane Holliday Willey EdD developed teaching methods during imaginative play as a child that she would later apply to her work in autism. Valerie Paradiz PhD correlates racism toward black baseball players in the 1950s with prejudice she experienced on the spectrum. Nick Walker MA discusses his adaptation of the martial art of aikido to the self-regulation needs of individuals on the spectrum. Dena Gassner LMSW and Lars Perner PhD talk about methods of organization as well as compensatory strategies each of them developed. Temple Grandin PhD Emmy award-winning scholar and inventor presents how learning basic skills were critical keys to her success.
An anthology of eight inspiring autobiographical journeys about living on the autism spectrum reveals remarkable success stories of academic achievements. This book challenges notions of institutionalization and abandonment for families with a child higher on the spectrum. The contributors' insights are evident of bright and successful individuals with best-selling books--refusing to let a diagnosis identify them--examples of strength and triumph any of us would be proud to call our own.
