No comments about My Son, My Gentle Son.

No comments about An Owl on the Moon: A Journal From the Edge of Darkness.

2 comments about Aspargus Dreams.

1. In a tone that brings to mind bubbly teenage girls, Jessica Peers recounts five years at a National Autistic Society residential school in the United Kingdom. The back cover of this book suggests that the book will give insights into Asperger's syndrome. On that point, it seems to be wrong. However, it does give a lot of insight into institutional life.

   Peers has a talent for wryly amusing caricature, whether in drawing (her cartoons appear throughout the book) or in sketching out people's character in words. Not everything in the book is amusing, though. There are some truly harrowing scenes of physical and emotional abuse by staff, as well as the usual detached brusqueness that crops up in places like that. The funny descriptions offset the often-heavy situations enough to make it readable to me without causing too much pain, and I almost wonder if the author had the same idea herself.

   One thing that struck me was how much the actions and social dynamics of the people in the book reminded me of the dynamics in every disability-segregated setting I have ever been in, whether there were autistic people besides me or not. This book is one more that convinces me that whether you call it a group home, a psychiatric ward, special education, or a residential school, some things never change. There are particular spins on things depending on what the setting calls itself and what kind of person is placed in it, and this book is no exception. But its descriptions of life there are surprisingly wide in their applicability.

   One thing this book is not, though, is all that insightful about what autism is. It claims to provide insight into autism, but it really doesn't. It describes situations involving a lot of autistic *people*, including the author, but in truth it has ended up more about life in that particular place than about a particular condition. It also contains the common misconception that people who appear "more autistic" are necessarily less aware of their environment and therefore less suffering from what happens around them. People should know that before buying this book -- the real focus is not necessarily the same as the apparent focus.

   This is not a problem, though. There are a lot of books out there already that discuss "autism from the inside" ad infinitum. This book describes institutional dynamics from an autistic point of view, which is much rarer, and to my knowledge this is the only book by an autistic person that takes place *only* within such a place.




2. Neurotypical people read books by people with AS to find out about the condition or gain some illusive insight. As a person diagnosed with AS myself I just read them as most people would read any `normal' persons auto-biography... for interest and enjoyment and because, for a change, I can identify with the experiences the main character describes.
   
   Diagnosed with Asperger syndrome at 12 and sent away to a residential school for young people with autism, this is the tale of the next 5 years of this girls life, the characters she meets, the emotional struggles she faces, and her rebellion against a misguided and inflexible system.
   
   However, Jessica makes clear herself in the introduction that this book is not about naming and shaming people from her past. Names are changed, characters are composite, and she describes the experiences rather than the events, in a way that I at least found meaningful and compelling. My only disappointment was reaching the end and still wanting to know what happened next.
   
   I don't think you'll learn much about AS from reading this, but it is still a worthwhile read in my opinion.

3 comments about Other Side of the Rainbow: A Patient's Perspective of Experimental Medicine.

1. If you want to read about a young woman with true courage, then read this book. A great autobiography.



2. The book takes the reader through the experiences only a patient could have endured, I was moved by the emotional highs and lows not only Gina experienced but her family as well. I have had friends and family go through the trials that Cancer and its treatment put them through but seeing them through the eyes of the patient brings an in depth understanding you could find nowhere else. I would recommend the book for anyone, dealing with an illness or not, if only to get a better perspective on the family's ability to pull together.



3. I have read the book and absoultly loved it. I passed it on to other friends and it is so inspirational that you want people to know what she has been through. I know her personally and have to say, I don't know anyone as strong willed as her. She has a 13 year old daughter (a miricle from God) and does her best to see that she doesn't miss a thing of her growing up.
   Gina gives much hope to others that anything can be overcome by the Grace of God. She has bad days and needs to rest reguraly but some of the things she is able to do inspires me myself.
   Her husband is a God send to her and is so good to and for her.
   People need to read this book and know that things that look so uncurable can be. I love her as a friend and sometimes envy her. This story tells of a brave little girl and a strong family, Christian family and what the power of prayer and strong will can do. Put this book out where people can see it and want to read it. It's a wonderful read.
   Cheryle Griffith

5 comments about Under the Devil's Thumb.

1. From start to finish, I was deeply moved by Gessner's insightful and creative prose. This is perhaps the greatest book I've ever read. Thank you, Mr. Gessner, for making an invaluable contribution to contemporary American literature.



2. Though I enjoyed much of this book immensely, calling it a book would be a bit generous. Though its major theme of the importance of a person establishing connectedness to a place rings true, the disparate chapters and their topics do not lead to a book that is greater than the sum of its parts. It stands better as a series of essays. Some chapters are full of the overwrought musings of an overly sentimental tree hugger, others are just too downright giddy and reek of so much gosh gee willikers amazement as to be pure drivel. There is also a narcissistic tone to the book that detracts from many of the aithors very moving and genuine observations. However, other sections ring so true that they should be lifted straight out of the book and put on a travel brochure. Mr. Gessner is at his best when waxing eloquently about the past (his own or anyone else's) or when he is on his bike ( a kindred spirit with this reviewer), but when he drifts into reflections on the zen of the moment it seems just too drippingly forced for this rreviewers taste.



3. It sounded good. And I could relate to parts of it, as a recent transplant to Denver and having just experienced the deaths of close relatives. But the pomposity was too much. Some interesting stuff, but a lot of disorganized rambling. It feels like Gessner is just trying too hard to write the book he wants to be so proud of. The word "narcissistic" pops up a lot in the book. Totally appropriately. Does the guy mention beer in every single essay in the book? Yes, David, you're cool - you carried beer along on your hike.



4. After 143 pages of drinking in the great outdoors, on page 144 David blunders onto the idea that he might be an alcoholic. Gee, dyathink? This book sounds like work of a man who desperately wants his words or his life to mean something big. He must refer to "personal myths" a dozen times in this book. He uses an incident where he leaves his sick, laboring wife behind on a x/c ski trip, only to "rescue" her and carry her pack near the end as a launching pad into an essay on heroism and heros (a title he doesnt claim, but one gets the sense he thinks he deserves). Oh puhlease! David is obviously well-read and I think he has potential when he writes about something other than himself. But his personal essay is too personal, he is too shallow for me to care about his character, and he never does anything interesting to write about (unless you call ski-drinking interesting). His essays of "place" about his affection for his new home in the west ring hollow to me, as if he desperately wants to believe what he has written. The book has its good moments, he occasionally turns a few good paragraphs when he is talking about something other than himself. But they seem like window dressing when viewed in the context of the whole. This was a hard book to finish because I just didnt care.



5. Found this to be an ejoyable read. It fits on the shelf next to edward abbey and bill bryson quite nicely. I recently read an essay by David Gessner in Orion - Learning to Surf - find the article online and read that if you want a quick taste of the superb writing gessner is capable of. I found this book to be close to that level of greatness; no "desert solitaire" but thoroughly enjoyable. I don't understand the previous reviewers abhorrence of beer - those contradictions contribute to a rich life. But fair enough, if you are the type who will occasionally negate your lightweight hiking gear by packing in a bottle of wine to share around the campfire, you will love this book.
   Be Well,
   Art

5 comments about Right Address ... Wrong Planet: Children with Asperger Syndrome Becoming Adults.

1. This is a very personal story of a family dealing with the struggles of a teen/young adult who does not quite fit the definition of "normal". For any family dealing with this in their lives, this book is a good read. However, the descriptions of the teen in the book did not lead me to believe that he has Asperger Syndrome. This is somewhat addressed in the book in the early chapters while the parents were trying to find an appropriate label for their child. If your looking for something specific to Asperger Syndrome, I would look elsewhere. If, however, you would like to share in the experiences of a family who struggle and want the best for their child, this is a good read.



2. Gena Barnhill does an excellent job pulling back the curtain and letting us see inside life with (and as) an Asperger child growing into adulthood. As an adult dealing with the disorder, raising a son with it, I found myself looking both in a mirror and a crystal ball.
   
   Barnhill's down to earth, real life writing style lets you in where you really feel you know the principals.
   
   The book is not (and is not meant to be) a medical or psychological manual. It is human and real and gives a real world view of what the disorder is and how it affected Barnhill's son, and her family - and how they dealt with things. A very interesting and useful read.



3. This has its good and bad points. First the good, which is this author's candor in life with a son who has Asperger's Syndrome (AS), which is the spectrum partner to autism.
   
   Now, the bad points. The young man featured in this book was not correctly diagnosed until he reached adulthood. As another reader on the US review boards noted, it does not appear that much had been done for the young man during his boyhood except express disappointment, dismay, disillusionment and disgust over his behavior.
   
   Once the diagnosis of AS is in, the young man's behavior is taxed on his sensory neurobiological condition. Instead of taking proactive steps in working with him to conquer his social difficulties cognitively, dismay over past insensitivities to his behavior and wailing and lamentation appear to underscore a good portion of this book. And, as another reviewer on the US boards noted, I, too would hate to think that people just learning about AS would use this book as "the" approach to take for all people on the autism/Asperger's (a/A) spectrum. There are many approaches to take, such as ABA; floor time; social stories/scripts and playacting social scenarios and working cognitively with the person so they are taught the social mores and norms.
   
   The topper for me was when AS was called a developmental disability. That is just not true! AS is NOT a cognitive NOR a developmental disability, which implies delayed milestones. AS is a sensory neurobiological condition that shares a place on the autism continuum. It is a form of autism that affects sensory integration and processing and, to a certain extent language. However, people with AS are seldom delayed in speech development. What upset me the most was the author's erroneous claim that people with AS outgrow it, which simply isn't true. People with AS learn to cope and compensate and try to camouflage social difficulties and remain baffled by certain social codes and norms, but AS is not something one outgrows. I'm tired of erroneous claims like this because they raise people's hopes, but are grossly inaccurate. I also don't think that kind of thing speaks to tolerance or acceptance.
   
   Skip this and read Jerry Newport's "Your Life is Not a Label - a Guide to Living Fully With Autism & AS," "Solutions for Adults with Asperger's Syndrome: Maximizing the Benefits, Minimizing the Drawbacks to Achieve Success" by Juanita Lovett and "Loving Mr. Spock: Understanding an Aloof Lover - Could it Be Asperger's" by Barbara Jacobs far more helpful and informative for adults with AS. There are better narratives by parents of children who are on the a/A spectrum, such as Cammie McGovern's stellar work about her son Ethan. I want more good books for adults with AS, but I don't feel this is one.



4. I am truly offended by some comments such as, "Unfortunately, this family doesn't have the first clue about what AS actually is." This is absolutely not true. I can attest my family has done a lot for myself. Therapy is not the ONLY answer here. Seeing a shrink is only a piece of the puzzle. The people that have rated the book with 1 star are totally out of line. If you want to pay money for therapy then go ahead and waste your money. If you really want help get then try some medication with some good old-fashioned disipline. Seek help from others as my family has done so. God Bless :)



5. Just to set a few of the participating veiwers straight, Asperger's Disorder is recognized by the American Psychiactric Association as a Pervasive Developmental Disorder. One can refer to the DSM IV-TR- a comprehensive book on specific criteria for qualifying diagnoses, used by psychologists and other mental health providers, and published by the American Psychiactric Society-to access the definitive criteria for establishing the existance of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder and Asperger's, in particular.

2 comments about A Mother Held Hostage.

1. Got this book. . . One of my favorites--one that helped convinced me that I was ready to be a father. The mom in the book went through hell--worse than anything I could have imagined (and this is not a novel. It was a real account of her experience with her son). Yet, I felt a strange conviction that this is what being a parent is about. For, I don't think it was ever meant to be easy. Those who choose to go into parenthood with their eyes open are the kind of special people who give unconditionally, despite how much of a thankless job, at times, it may seem.
   
   This book was not some miracle tale. The outcome of the story in the book was far from a happy ending. In fact it was tragic. However, there was just something about the journey that this woman went through that resonnated with me and with my idea of parenthood.



2. Barbara Borntrager's book is an honest, open and straightforward look at living as a family with someone who has a mental illness. It "tells it like it is" and also shows how love and inspiration can help you survive. It is a wonderful tribute to her son. We know so little still about the human body and mind even today. When something is wrong and so poorly understood what a frustrating, trying circumstance that can be. This book is about love in the highest degree because sometimes that is all you have left to keep you going. Wonderful, wonderful book!

5 comments about The Bridge Never Crossed.

1. After meeting the author in person,reading his book was as powerful as listening to him speak.Mr.Burk takes you on a journey that only a true survivor would attempt. His stop at the Bridge is the starting point for us all !



2. George Burke's survival story was first heard by me on a radio talk show. His book is as awsome as his discussion was, and I was profoundly moved by his courage, determination, and humor. I have often recommended his book to my "special needs" clients. His story gives much needed encouragement to them, and a new perspective in facing the challenges of living, despite tragic events. I was so impressed by George, that he will now be the keynote speaker at the 6th Annual Joint Services Special Needs Awareness Forum in Norfolk, Virginia.



3. This wonderful, courageous and inspirational story makes a perfect gift for anyone on your list - mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, co-workers, friends, enemies, ANYONE! Capt. George Burk is a truly remarkable, amazing man with a truly remarkable, amazing story...a story that I defy ANYONE not to be moved by. Capt. Burk was a recent guest on our radio show...and never has any guest had the impact on my me and my co-host, Debbie...but our producer, the engineer - EVERYONE IN THE BUILDING! George Burk is one of the most incredible people I have ever had the great opportunity to come into contact with. I will say right now...if you haven't read this book - read it NOW!! You will not be sorry - you will be changed.



4. This story has been and will continue to be a true inspiration to anyone who reads it. I have known Captain Burk for thirteen years and was familiar with his experiences. The book provided me an in depth realization of the chain of miracles that lead to Mr. Burk's survival of such a tragic event. The Bridge Never Crossed causes the reader to reflect on what is really important in life and realize that God has a plan for each of us. I have purchased several copies to share with family and friends. George has been one of the most influential people in my life. He is constant reminder that each of us control our own destiny.



5. This story has been and will continue to be a true inspiration to anyone who reads it. I have known Captain Burk for thirteen years and was familiar with his experiences. The book provided me an in depth realization of the chain of miracles that lead to Mr. Burk's survival of such a tragic event. The Bridge Never Crossed causes the reader to reflect on what is really important in life and realize that God has a plan for each of us. I have purchased several copies to share with family and friends. George has been one of the most influential people in my life. He is constant reminder that each of us control our own destiny.

3 comments about My Soul Purpose: Living, Learning, and Healing.

1. In November,1994, was wife and I were involved in a motor vehicle accident which left her a C-6 quad. Ever since the accident I have attempted to create a life which may have resembled that which we used to enjoy yet I was never quite able to find the "magic bullet". When I read the review of Heidi's book I felt I had nothing to loose but to purchase it. I have to tell you, it was Good Medicine! My wife poured through the book several times and with each reading felt more inspired to never end for quest for the cure. In addition to a renewed zeal to live life again Kathleen began to exercise religiously and see progressas aeach week passed. kathleen continues to this day to inform me that "Heidi would do this each day and eventually........" In a nutshell "My Soul Purppose" is a painfully truthful account of a young woman who has sustained an injury which only those who too have sustained a SCI can have an appreciation for her personal tale. Rather than painting a picture of woe Heidi provides personal experiences which provides hope and inspirastion for those individuals who have sustained a SCI. To see the smile and sense the inner peace which my wife experienced as she read "My Soul Purpose" made me accutely aware that the healing which occurs after a SCI is clearly more spiritual than physical. Suffice it is to say that this book has provided the direction to heal the psyche, now it is just a matter of being patient for the rest of the healing to occur!



2. I just finished this book, and I would recommend it to anyone with a spinal injury, especially those who were once athletic. If you ever feel like "giving up", then you MUST read this book!! Matter of fact, I plan to read it again. Inspiring! The book reminded me I MUST keep moving!! Never stop!! Don't give up!!! As long as you keep moving, you'll get better, day by day. Don't ever let the "inner you" die; for THAT INNER SPIRIT is what will keep you and your body alive, and make life meaningful.



3. Heidi's account of her on-going quest to comeback from paralysis is a beautiful statement of her courage, intelligence and spiritual knowledge. I finally got around to reading this book that a friend gave me and I am so glad I did. What she has to say is a message for all of us. A message on inner peace of understanding how we truly work...physically, emotionally, spiritually, mentally. She is a remarkable woman to not give up and to understand that the physical is just one element of who we are. Do yourself a favor and read this book.

1 comments about The Best of Both Worlds: (A Not-So-Silent Life).

1. I feel the same exact understandings and feelings of Deaf culture being a CODA. This book is excellent.