Author(s): Lynn, Eva

NZ Non Fiction

Revised edition. Asperger's disorder is one of the main autism spectrum disorders that affects approximately 3% of the population. It is present from birth or at a very early stage in development and is a pervasive life long disorder. It affects the development of essential human behaviours such as social interaction, communication, feelings and imagination. Although not entirely understood how, it is clear that the disorders reflect inderlying brain dysfunction. There is no cure for Autism but it can be managed through understanding and learning. It has been acknowledged in the research literature that the family has a significant role in providing for positive outcomes for their child with an autism spectrum disorder, yet this involves enormous challenge. The child perceives the world differently from others, and the family constantly has to accommodate and deal with difficult, sometimes very severe situations. This book is a collection of 174 anecdotes of living with Eva Lynn's daughter Jessica and how she views the world totally differently from the rest of us. The stories reveal the extent to which family life centres round Jessica and the constant need for the family to accommodate and adapt everyday events to avoid major disruptions and outbursts. This is a major challenge for all those involved with young people with Autism. Families and professionals have to understand the point of view of people with Autism in order to work with them effectively. It is only then that we can assist the young person to develop more functional skills. In this book Eva has chosen to focus on the lighter aspects of life with Jessica. This story can act as an inspiration for others. It is a story of success over despair.