Finding a Different Kind of Normal: Misadventures with Asperger Syndrome

by Jeanette Purkis

Jeanette Purkis spent her early life reacting violently against her feelings of embarrassment, anger and confusion about her 'difference' from other people. She was unaware until well into adulthood that everything she found difficult, including her lack of success in forming relationships, could be a result of having Asperger Syndrome. Used to being a misfit from a very young age, Jeanette found that being a member of a group in which she had a label - Jeanette the Communist; Jeanette, Enemy of the State; Jeanette the convict; Jeanette the drug addict - gave her a sense of order she could depend on, particularly in prison, where each day had a set routine and the inmates accepted her because of her rebel attitude. Finally diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome at the age of 20, the author only began to accept her diagnosis some years later when she felt for the first time that she might learn to cope with being herself. Jeanette's remarkable life and her journey towards finding a different kind of normal is compelling and inspiring reading for people with autism spectrum disorders, and those living or working with them.

Genres: Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Biography, Biography Memoir, Psychology, Memoir

192 pages, Paperback

First published January 6, 2006

Reviews

[Brad · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book about Jeanette Purkis is different to many other stories I have read especially by those written by John Elder Robison and Rudy Simone. It is not because they are from America, but because she has written about her many hats that she has worn through her life and having major problems fitting into society. While Jeanette doesn’t write about hints and tips like Rudy Simone in Aspergirls, but instead shows the darkness in her life especially denial of her diagnosis of Aspergers Syndrome right up to when she finally accepts the diagnosis years later. The book is by no way the reflection of her entire life as it still continues onto today as her journey continues well past the final pages until today, where she continues to work within the Asperger / Autism community. The book itself is interesting and an easy read, not everyones cup of tea especially if they are looking for something inspirational from the beginning telling you how to live on the spectrum. People do forget that life is not all about Unicorns and rainbows for there is always the darkness hiding at the edges where the dragons and goblins come out to play. I would be happy to read her other books when they come out as I would like to see the inner workings of a brilliant mind. I would like to read more books about Australians and how they have handled life.

[Rob Damon · Rating 3 out of 5]

A biographical account of someone with Asperger's Syndrome. To me, I showed a woman who had gone through her life without any real strategy. She went from being one thing to another, and I think it put across very well how she was constantly trying to fit in with those around her, even if it was to her detriment.

[Shelley · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was disappointing. It desperately needed an editor. No insights were drawn from her experiences whatsoever. It's just a long, rambling account of her sad life.

[Chloe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was some what torn over what to rate this as. In the end I chose 4 stars because whilst it's not beautifully written it is an important account of Autism and mental illness. I found it relatable and would definitely recommend it, I feel it needs to be read.

[Shaquaria Reid · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good


Was a good book but a bit repetitive, it was interesting to watch her life unfold and manifest at the same time.

[Dane Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting perspective on living with Asperger's syndrome.

[Vicki]

did not finish reading it