Beyond the Wall: Personal Experiences with Autism and Asperger Syndrome by Stephen M. Shore, Arnold Miller (Foreword by)

Beyond the Wall: Personal Experiences with Autism and Asperger Syndromeby Anonymous

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September 24, 2005: Initially, although I purchased this book for our therapy center's library, I didn't take the time to read it myself. I assumed it was merely another, touching account of someone living with autism, but that it wouldn't be particularly helpful to me as the mother of three YOUNG children with Asperger Syndrome. However, after meeting Stephen Shore in person I became curious because he is a bright and funny guy and I wanted to know more about him. I borrowed back the book and began reading it. The predominant feeling I have is of wishing I'd read it sooner. It is not only interesting and insightful as he narrarates his life past and present, but it is heartwarming, humorous, and helpful. The book is written in an unusual way--in three narrative voices--all of them Stephen. The first is him sharing the intriging tale of how his life unfolded, the second giving context in present time and the third an ongoing interjection of facts regarding autism, treatment, and related concepts. It explains things in a clear and understandable manner. It is also has a sort of quirky warmth about it, even as he is quite honest about the various challenges he has faced, and continues to face. But it goes Beyond the Wall of autism to explain how he was able to develop and connect with the outside world. It includes accounts by the significant people in his life, such as his mother. She relates both in fact oriented language, what the challenges were in raising this unusual boy, but also is blatantly honest about her own struggles and perceived shortcomings. Yet I find myself amazed that even in the 1960s when little was understood about autism, going against convention wisdom of institutionalizing, she sought out and found solutions to help her son. Perhaps the most significally striking thing about this book however is that it is a WEALTH of ideas for helping someone with Autism Spectrum Disorder live a richer, fuller and more rewarding life. Stephen lays out strategies for people with autism spectrum disorder for everything from work to relationships. I find myself realizing that it IS relevant to my children's lives NOW. It has me thinking differently about how I can support them into growing to their full potential. It is a hopeful, optimistic, albeit realistic account of the good, bad and the ugly moments of living with the challenges of autism. I read this book because I wanted to know more about Stephen specifically, and while that goal may have been accomplished, I also discovered a view into my own children's lives...and mine. I find myself looking toward their future with more hope, more confidence and more excitement than I have for a long time. Don't wait to read this book!