The Asperger Love Guide

Book excerpt: ′This book breaks down the social, emotional and practical aspects of relationships so usefully that it is a good resource for teachers and others working with neurotypical individuals. In fact the book so sensibly discusses pitfalls, strategies and individual responsibilities that it would be valuable reading for teenagers generally as well as for individuals with Asperger syndrome′ - Tess Coll, autism outreach teacher ′The Asperger Love Guide is recommended reading for those with Asperger′s syndrome who are seeking or within a relationship. The authors provide a clear explanation of how the characteristics of Asperger′s syndrome can affect the development of a relationship and the expression of love. They then provide sound practical advice for individuals and couples. I really enjoyed reading The Asperger Love Guide and will be recommending the book to my clients′ – Professor Tony Attwood `This is the first book I′ve read in a long time that, once started, I couldn′t put down until it was finished. It is an exceptionally good read. The 77 pages are written succinctly with no waffle - just straight to the point. I will definitely buy a copy of this book for the whole family to use! I will use it to guide Joe (my 17 year old Asperger son) when he′s ready for it. It′s not a book he would read himself; in fact I read the section "the merits of single life" out loud to him a bit like a bed time story′ - Action for ASD ′There is a great need for more awareness of Asperger syndrome and how it affects personal relationships. The National Autistic Society find this a helpful guide′ - Cathy Mercer, NAS ′This book sets out some helpful facts about relationships in a neat, simple form′ - Asperger United ′An excellent self ′help-text′... the book is a clear and matter-of-fact guide to relationships and is unapologetic in offering straightforward and helpful advice for romantic success... Not a word is wasted, and as well as being highly recommended for individuals with Asperger′s Syndrome, should also be read by education professionals supporting young people with Asperger′s Syndrome in schools, colleges and universities′ - SENCO Update ′Aimed primarily at individuals with Asperger syndrome, this very readable book is in fact of use to a much wider audience. The issues are discussed openly and logically and the advice given is both sympathetic and very matter of fact... The book breaks down the social, emotional and practical aspects of relationships so usefully that it is a good resource for teachers and others working with neurotypical individuals. Infact the book so sensibly discusses pitfalls, strategies and individual responsibilities that it would be valuable reading for teenagers generally as well as for individuals with Asperger syndrome′ - British Journal of Special Education Material based on the experiences of the people on the Autistic Spectrum is usually written by neurotypical writers. Here, Genevieve and Dean, both adults with Asperger′s Syndrome, share their advice and tips for romantic success. The chapters cover: o building self-esteem; o the best places to meet potential partners; o dating; o maintaining relationships. Both authors work with the Asperger community, either providing support or training, so their insight is based upon other people′s experiences as well as their own. This is shown in a number of case studies that support the elements described in each chapter. They write in a clear, accessible and non-patronizing way which will suit their audience. This will prove to be an invaluable book to those with Asperger′s or those that support Asperger people. Dean Worton is a 31 year-old high functioning individual with a very positive expression of Asperger Syndrome. He runs a successful UK-based website for adults with Asperger Syndrome and hosts real-life meet-ups around the UK for its members. His key interest is in encouraging adults with AS to live positively and successfully with the gifts that Asperger Syndrome provides. He also works in adminstration and resides in North-West England. Genevieve Edmonds is a 23 year old with ′residual′ Asperger Syndrome, which she views as a significant gift. She works as an associate of the Missing Link Support Service in Lancashire supporting those ′disabled by society′ including individuals with ASD. She speaks and writes frequently in the field of Autism, along with giving training, workshops and soon counselling. She aims to empower those with ASD, carers and professionals in the understanding of Asperger Syndrome as a difference rather than an impairment. She lives and works in a solution-focused way and is based in North-West England