In a field where many of the books on autism are written by outsiders who perpetuate myths, stereotypes, and negative images of autism - or at best, that autistic individuals deserve respect despite their wildly different and often bizarre behavior - Dr. Prizant's take on autism as a unique way of being human is refreshing. Through explanation of concepts and theories, backed by real life examples throughout his extensive career, Prizant highlights the universally human underpinnings of behaviors in autistic individuals that many might not understand. An autistic person who repeats the same question over and over despite being answered the first time? How many neurotypical kids ask "are we there yet" ad nauseum on long car trips? An autistic person flicking their fingers repeatedly? How many neurotypical people twirl their hair to help focus or chew gum to calm their nerves?
The perspective shift in "Uniquely Human" is one sorely needed in the world and Prizant writes in a way that is accessible by anyone and very easy to read. With a blend of stories and concepts, the book never gets boring or drags, but rather keeps a comfortable pace. Anyone with a loved one with autism would benefit from reading this book as would every professional who does or might work with an autistic individual. After reading "Uniquely Human", I told a friend of mine who is a principal that *this* would be the book her teachers and staff should read for ongoing autism education. Not only does the book provide an excellent perspective shift, it does so in a way that addresses how to tackle many of the struggles that caregivers, educators, and others have in understanding and supporting autistic individuals. To be honest, I had avoided this book for several months because I thought the title would be an exercise in trite condescension of the autistic community, but I found it to be genuine and respectful of the dignity of everyone. For those who are somewhat familiar with the neurodiversity community, the one caveat you should know is that Prizant acknowledges that many adult autistics prefer an identity first language (autistic person) as opposed to a person first language (person with autism), but chooses to use a person first language without much explanation as to why. Aside from that, which I realize can be very significant for many, I found "Uniquely Human" to be the perfect introduction to autism book in terms of hands-on application. If you are looking for a good understanding of the historical development and story of autism as a diagnosis and the emergence of the neurodiversity movement, I highly recommend "NeuroTribes" by Steve Silberman.
If you are a parent, grandparent, caregiver, teacher, administrator, etc., please read this book.
Uniquely Human: Updated and Expanded: A Different Way of Seeing Autism
4.8 | 3,606 ratings
Price: 15.74
Last update: 08-09-2024
Top reviews from the United States
Lindsey W
Not to be trite, but this is a MUST Read
Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2017James Muncy
Transformative and Compassionate Insight into Autism
Reviewed in the United States on August 1, 2024Crafter
Very informative book
Reviewed in the United States on May 29, 2024Brownie
Easy Read
Reviewed in the United States on July 10, 2024
David
Great ideas!
Reviewed in the United States on June 3, 2024Amazon Customer
Need
Reviewed in the United States on April 25, 2023C. Ford
Excellent Reference for Understanding Autism
Reviewed in the United States on July 7, 2024Taybuehler
Easy read
Reviewed in the United States on June 22, 2024