Uniquely Human: Updated and Expanded: A Different Way of Seeing Autism Paperback – April 19, 2022

My favorite book on Autism. Many different stories on several individuals with autism. I gift these books as Christmas gifts to all of my son’s teachers, paraprofessionals, and therapists. It’s a great read for anyone wanting to learn and understand these amazing people on the Autism Spectrum!

If you are burned out on books to help you as a parent, and only want to read one book — read this one. Positive, hopeful with excellent information. I appreciated the emphasis on acceptance and “seeing” the reality of our beautiful, smart, funny, unique children. Good information that helps reframing life’s journey.

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.

It encourages, enlightens, and offers hope for those on the spectrum & their families. It gives voice to the autistic community

"Uniquely Human" by Barry Prizant is a groundbreaking book that redefines how we understand and interact with individuals on the autism spectrum. As a parent of a child with autism, I found this book to be incredibly enlightening and uplifting.Prizant's approach is refreshingly humane, emphasizing the importance of seeing the world through the eyes of those with autism. Instead of focusing on deficits and behaviors to be corrected, he encourages readers to appreciate the unique ways in which individuals with autism experience the world. His message is clear: behaviors are not random or senseless, but are meaningful responses to their environment.The book is filled with compelling stories and practical advice, making complex concepts accessible and relatable. Prizant's decades of experience shine through in his compassionate, respectful, and optimistic perspective. He challenges many traditional methods of intervention, advocating for a more empathetic and understanding approach.What sets this book apart is its focus on building positive relationships and creating supportive environments. Prizant provides concrete strategies for parents, educators, and therapists to foster trust, communication, and emotional well-being."Uniquely Human" is a must-read for anyone who knows or works with individuals on the autism spectrum. It not only changes how we view autism but also inspires us to become better, more compassionate human beings.

One of the better new books on Autism, font size (regarding reading book) bit small, but otherwise can read and get it.Sadly so few books of any value done in Australia, hence again a USA publication. Does cover Autism in Adults despite kids on cover.Many rubbish books on Autism as a 'disease' or as 'super special' - both wrong. This one avoids those traps. For those who want another option regarding a good Autism account, look up recent books by Digby Tantum, a UK author. Delivered fine, no problems.

The perspective of how to view the autistic child and how they fit into the world / grow up is shown in many years of experience from this Dr. It is caring and also insightful. Follows many examples of kids and how they and their parents navigated various scenarios. This gives invaluable context to those parents with a new diagnosis beyond clinical descriptions of autism or autism resources. It is not written by someone with autism, so if you are looking for that, look at Asperger's from the inside out or some other relevant book.