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Different . . . Not Less: Inspiring Stories of Achievement and Successful Employment from Adults with Autism, Asperger's, and ADHD
Temple Grandin offers the world yet another great work, an inspiring and informative book that offers both hope and encouragement. In these pages, Temple presents the personal success stories of fourteen unique individuals that illustrate the extraordinary potential of those on the autism spectrum. One of Temple’s primary missions is to help people with autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, and ADHD tap into their hidden abilities. Temple chose these contributors from a wide variety of different skill sets to show how it can be done. Each individual tells their own story in their own words about their lives, relationships, and eventual careers. The contributors also share how they dealt with issues they confronted while growing up, such as bullying, making eye contact, and honing social skills. Different...Not Less shows how, with work, each of the (and sometimes) Raised families
407 pages, Paperback
First published April 16, 2012
75 people are currently reading
1843 people want to read
About the author
Temple Grandin
157 books1,776 followersMary Temple Grandin is an American academic and animal behaviorist. She is a prominent proponent of the humane treatment of livestock for slaughter and the author of more than 60 scientific papers on animal behavior. Grandin is a consultant to the livestock industry, where she offers advice on animal behavior, and is also an autism spokesperson.
Grandin is one of the first autistic people to document the insights she gained from her personal experiences with autism. She is a faculty member with Animal Sciences in the College of Agricultural Sciences at Colorado State University.
In 2010, Time 100, an annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world, named her in the "Heroes" category. She was the subject of the Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning biographical film Temple Grandin. Grandin has been an outspoken proponent of autism rights and neurodiversity movements.
Grandin is one of the first autistic people to document the insights she gained from her personal experiences with autism. She is a faculty member with Animal Sciences in the College of Agricultural Sciences at Colorado State University.
In 2010, Time 100, an annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world, named her in the "Heroes" category. She was the subject of the Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning biographical film Temple Grandin. Grandin has been an outspoken proponent of autism rights and neurodiversity movements.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
September 19, 2012
I highly recommend this for anyone and everyone, because most everyone will come in contact with someone on the Autistic Spectrum at some point in time, if not daily. The CDC reports as od 2006 that an average of one in every 110 children have some form of Autism. According to more recent reports from the CDC in 2008, that percentage has grown to roughly 1 in 88. This book chronicles fourteen adults and their life stories in dealing with Autism. Each of the stories has an introduction from Temple Grandin. This book is a "must read" for anyone with an Autistic child and should be in their permanent library as a reference while they grow.
March 26, 2023
Interesting range of first-hand accounts of the different paths that people living with ASD have taken and the struggles and successes they've encountered along the way. I appreciated the variety of viewpoints.
April 28, 2019
Very interesting collection of stories. These people have managed to make good lives for themselves despite the difficulties of living in a mostly-neurotypical world. They describe their individual challenges and advantages and how they worked with them to get to where they are now. Most knew they were different but did not know that they were on the autism spectrum until later in life (they are mostly over 50). They all have had good jobs at some point in life (most still do) and many of them have married (with more or less success) and/or had children (all who did are very happy with their kids).
Each person's story is interesting and inspiring in a unique, quirky way. These are likable people who have more insight into how their minds work than most people. The stories have a set format, where they describe their early childhood, school years, relationships, employment, and other aspects of their lives. The writing style is simple, with very straightforward sentences. I don't know if it was edited to be more uniform or not. It does make the book easy to read.
These people, however, are not your typical non-neurotypical people. Most had large childhood advantages, mostly parents who supported them though they were unusual and sometimes difficult children. By support I mean they worked within and outside of the educational system and sometimes the workplace to make it accommodate their children. And almost all were white and in middle-class or higher households.
Also, I think that Temple Grandin has a tendency to moralize about work ethic and manners. A number of the stories stress these things. I think that either she chose the people/stories on the basis of this, or they were edited to stress it. It's not a problem, but I do wince when she gets into the "kids today [don't try hard enough, etc.]" statements. Other than that, her introductions and afternotes are very nice.
I'd recommend the book to anyone with an interest in high-functioning autistic people and anyone who thinks that they might be on the spectrum (like me). I think it's also pointed at (and I'd recommend it to) young or not-so-young people on the spectrum who want to figure out how to start or advance in a career.
Each person's story is interesting and inspiring in a unique, quirky way. These are likable people who have more insight into how their minds work than most people. The stories have a set format, where they describe their early childhood, school years, relationships, employment, and other aspects of their lives. The writing style is simple, with very straightforward sentences. I don't know if it was edited to be more uniform or not. It does make the book easy to read.
These people, however, are not your typical non-neurotypical people. Most had large childhood advantages, mostly parents who supported them though they were unusual and sometimes difficult children. By support I mean they worked within and outside of the educational system and sometimes the workplace to make it accommodate their children. And almost all were white and in middle-class or higher households.
Also, I think that Temple Grandin has a tendency to moralize about work ethic and manners. A number of the stories stress these things. I think that either she chose the people/stories on the basis of this, or they were edited to stress it. It's not a problem, but I do wince when she gets into the "kids today [don't try hard enough, etc.]" statements. Other than that, her introductions and afternotes are very nice.
I'd recommend the book to anyone with an interest in high-functioning autistic people and anyone who thinks that they might be on the spectrum (like me). I think it's also pointed at (and I'd recommend it to) young or not-so-young people on the spectrum who want to figure out how to start or advance in a career.
September 6, 2021
I bought this to give to my 16-year-old autistic son, as it sounded like a good read to give him perspectives on the travails and triumphs of autistic adults. I think it succeeds in that for the most part, though it will need some prefacing.
The book chose to feature people in their 50s and 60s, which makes sense, as they had a lot of life experience to discuss. However, their journeys are radically different than what a young person would experience now. These people in my parents' generation and somewhat younger (I should note this book came out about 10 years ago) were in an era where an early autism diagnosis meant institutionalization, if that was even the diagnosis at all--as the book Neurotribes explains in grim detail, schizophrenia and other major disorders were often the label instead. Many of the people in this book only were often regarded as 'different' as children but were only diagnosed as adults--which makes their experience no less valid, but it's important to note how things have changed with time. (And they need to change a lot more yet.)
I really appreciated the candor about which people wrote about their lives. There's a broad variety of experiences here, with people from America, Scotland, Australia, gay and straight and bi, some with kids, some content on farms with animals for company, and some with college degrees that may have taken 13 years or a return to school in middle age. The biggest common element is their resiliency. These people gradually realized they weren't like everyone else, and they've worked to find their place in the world, whether as an artist, a vet, or historical site tour guide.
In my first edition paperback, I was surprised by some blatant typos that distracted me at times. Actually, one about "Dessert Storm" made me laugh aloud. As I said above, this book is about ten years old, and some of the terminology has changed since then; a lot of the people talk about being diagnosed with Asperger's, and that name (and its Nazi roots) are definitely being phased out. (DSM 5 folded it into autism in 2013.) Maybe these issues have been updated in later editions.
The book chose to feature people in their 50s and 60s, which makes sense, as they had a lot of life experience to discuss. However, their journeys are radically different than what a young person would experience now. These people in my parents' generation and somewhat younger (I should note this book came out about 10 years ago) were in an era where an early autism diagnosis meant institutionalization, if that was even the diagnosis at all--as the book Neurotribes explains in grim detail, schizophrenia and other major disorders were often the label instead. Many of the people in this book only were often regarded as 'different' as children but were only diagnosed as adults--which makes their experience no less valid, but it's important to note how things have changed with time. (And they need to change a lot more yet.)
I really appreciated the candor about which people wrote about their lives. There's a broad variety of experiences here, with people from America, Scotland, Australia, gay and straight and bi, some with kids, some content on farms with animals for company, and some with college degrees that may have taken 13 years or a return to school in middle age. The biggest common element is their resiliency. These people gradually realized they weren't like everyone else, and they've worked to find their place in the world, whether as an artist, a vet, or historical site tour guide.
In my first edition paperback, I was surprised by some blatant typos that distracted me at times. Actually, one about "Dessert Storm" made me laugh aloud. As I said above, this book is about ten years old, and some of the terminology has changed since then; a lot of the people talk about being diagnosed with Asperger's, and that name (and its Nazi roots) are definitely being phased out. (DSM 5 folded it into autism in 2013.) Maybe these issues have been updated in later editions.
August 13, 2021
This is a collection of success stories from a variety of very different people on the autism spectrum, selected and with introductions by Temple Grandin. The people are very different, their stories are very different, and their definitions of success are very different.
For some, success is holding down a job, however modest, and being able to support themselves. For others, there's considerable professional success, in technology, art, teaching, and business in various forms.
Some have found that marriage and romantic romantic relationships are not a thing they are successful at, no matter how well they do in other areas of life. Some have built successful marriages, though often only after being diagnosed as autistic, enabling them and their partners to understand their behavior better.
These are diverse, fascinating individuals, who have learned to understand and work with, rather than against, their autism. Having been recently been diagnosed as autistic myself, after a lifetime of trying to be "normal," with feelings of frustration and failure at how out of place I feel in many "normal" settings, while "hiding" in setting where geeks and nerds set the standard for "normal" and I feel far more at home, this definitely resonated for me.
These are the stories of people who "don't fit in," yet have found ways to live that work for them and let them be themselves.
Recommended.
I bought this audiobook.
For some, success is holding down a job, however modest, and being able to support themselves. For others, there's considerable professional success, in technology, art, teaching, and business in various forms.
Some have found that marriage and romantic romantic relationships are not a thing they are successful at, no matter how well they do in other areas of life. Some have built successful marriages, though often only after being diagnosed as autistic, enabling them and their partners to understand their behavior better.
These are diverse, fascinating individuals, who have learned to understand and work with, rather than against, their autism. Having been recently been diagnosed as autistic myself, after a lifetime of trying to be "normal," with feelings of frustration and failure at how out of place I feel in many "normal" settings, while "hiding" in setting where geeks and nerds set the standard for "normal" and I feel far more at home, this definitely resonated for me.
These are the stories of people who "don't fit in," yet have found ways to live that work for them and let them be themselves.
Recommended.
I bought this audiobook.
April 4, 2012
This book is a MUST HAVE and will inspire, motivate
and move us all--especially those that live, work
and want to empower people on the autism
spectrum, like their kids to continually empower
people with autism to become their own personal
best - whatever direction they want to go and wherever that may be.
and move us all--especially those that live, work
and want to empower people on the autism
spectrum, like their kids to continually empower
people with autism to become their own personal
best - whatever direction they want to go and wherever that may be.
August 20, 2012
Very interesting read about the lives of adults, mostly in their 50's who received often late in life a diagnosis of autism or asperger's. Most of them struggled significantly during their childhood and in particular dealing with peers at school, but as adults have largely found their niche in life.
August 15, 2014
Through the book, I've learned that even though Autism and AS limit our abilities in some areas, we can still overcome problems and achieve the best positions in our careers.
Especially thanks to Karla Fisher for the useful lessons on working in multi-national company. She's going to be my role model in the next few years to come.
Especially thanks to Karla Fisher for the useful lessons on working in multi-national company. She's going to be my role model in the next few years to come.
February 24, 2017
Even though many of the people who tell their stories in this book success in the world of work, most have broken lives. I had hoped for more encouragement.
August 25, 2018
Temple odviedla vynikajúcu prácu, ide síce skôr o spísanie rôznych životných osudov ľudí na spektre, avšak je to naozaj dobre napísané a upozorňuje to na najlepšie pointy, ... Ak sa cítite (tak ako ja, že ste divní), že ste Aspík a tak trochu sa cítite ako mimozenšťan čo sa ocitol na planéte Zem s podivnými tvormi okolo vás, túto knihu rozhodne odporúčam:
Opäť raz mám pocit, že sa nachádzam v spektre - vymenujem citátmi v knihe aspoň najzaujímavejšie divnosti (mám ich aj ja), ktoré ma v tomto utvrdzujú v tom, že som "Aspík": (plus moje detské čítanie encyklopédií od strany A po Z, a znova a iné veľmi divné zábavky, ..).
- "Dodnes mám rád starty letadel a chvíle, kdy let zasáhnou turbulence."
- "Když přijde na hudbu, nejprve písničku poslouchám kvuli melodii. Potom, pozdeji, po mnoha měsících a doslova stovkách přehrávaní začínám rozeznávat slova. Pořád se ale někdy musím dívat do poznámek, protože hudba ta slova rozmazáva."
- "Cítim se handicapovaná životem. Nesnáším chaos, hluk a davy a lidi. Neustále něco pouštím na zem, rozbíjím a ztrácím a nedokážu přijít na to, jak otvírat nebo zavírat ruzné věci. Jsem absolutní a totální nešika."
- "Plánování je nástroj, který vám pomáhá převzít zodpovědnost".
- Keď vás často najlepšie identifikuje táto veta: "Nejsi tak hloupá, jak se chováš." "Moje diagnoza vysvětlovala, proč jsem zároveň intelektuální a dětinská."
- "Jediným zpusobem, jak se mi na škole dařilo přežít, bylo, že jsem trávila co nejvíc času v knihovně mezi knihami, kde jsem se cítila bezpečně.
- Když sedíme, na první pohled v tichosti, zoufale se snažíme zrekonstruovat svět všezahrnujícím zpusobem, který dáva smysl."
- Když mám vztah, necítim žárlivost ani skutečnou zlost. Teprve ted vím, proč. Všiml jsem si, že sex a láska jsou pro mě dvě ruzne věci - ne jedna. Sex je sex a láska je všechno, co neí sexuální.
- "Měl jsem problémy s navazováním a udržováním přátelství. Dodnes mám obtíže s udržováním přátelsví, která nejsou jen povrchní."
Opäť raz mám pocit, že sa nachádzam v spektre - vymenujem citátmi v knihe aspoň najzaujímavejšie divnosti (mám ich aj ja), ktoré ma v tomto utvrdzujú v tom, že som "Aspík": (plus moje detské čítanie encyklopédií od strany A po Z, a znova a iné veľmi divné zábavky, ..).
- "Dodnes mám rád starty letadel a chvíle, kdy let zasáhnou turbulence."
- "Když přijde na hudbu, nejprve písničku poslouchám kvuli melodii. Potom, pozdeji, po mnoha měsících a doslova stovkách přehrávaní začínám rozeznávat slova. Pořád se ale někdy musím dívat do poznámek, protože hudba ta slova rozmazáva."
- "Cítim se handicapovaná životem. Nesnáším chaos, hluk a davy a lidi. Neustále něco pouštím na zem, rozbíjím a ztrácím a nedokážu přijít na to, jak otvírat nebo zavírat ruzné věci. Jsem absolutní a totální nešika."
- "Plánování je nástroj, který vám pomáhá převzít zodpovědnost".
- Keď vás často najlepšie identifikuje táto veta: "Nejsi tak hloupá, jak se chováš." "Moje diagnoza vysvětlovala, proč jsem zároveň intelektuální a dětinská."
- "Jediným zpusobem, jak se mi na škole dařilo přežít, bylo, že jsem trávila co nejvíc času v knihovně mezi knihami, kde jsem se cítila bezpečně.
- Když sedíme, na první pohled v tichosti, zoufale se snažíme zrekonstruovat svět všezahrnujícím zpusobem, který dáva smysl."
- Když mám vztah, necítim žárlivost ani skutečnou zlost. Teprve ted vím, proč. Všiml jsem si, že sex a láska jsou pro mě dvě ruzne věci - ne jedna. Sex je sex a láska je všechno, co neí sexuální.
- "Měl jsem problémy s navazováním a udržováním přátelství. Dodnes mám obtíže s udržováním přátelsví, která nejsou jen povrchní."
January 1, 2020
I read this book because my son is autistic. Autism is a broad term used to describe behaviours, lack of development, communication challenges, and mental health. We are still finding out about it and how to help those with this aspect, and their caregivers/families.
Temple Grandin is autistic. She has a PhD and has learned how to connect with others. She is also famous for having an independent life that is successful and meaningful on her terms. It was my honour to meet her once several years back.
This book is her authentic voice. Many of the chapters are part of her public speaking engagaements. This book contains historical facts and results from more modern research. It is helpful for those who seek to understand autism and learn what is helpful for support and communication. I highly recommend this book.
Temple Grandin is autistic. She has a PhD and has learned how to connect with others. She is also famous for having an independent life that is successful and meaningful on her terms. It was my honour to meet her once several years back.
This book is her authentic voice. Many of the chapters are part of her public speaking engagaements. This book contains historical facts and results from more modern research. It is helpful for those who seek to understand autism and learn what is helpful for support and communication. I highly recommend this book.
October 24, 2017
I love that this is rightly described as a book of success stories, although each person's path is so unique. This is a collection of personal narratives reflecting on school, employment and relationships while navigating the world with a diagnosis of autism. It is insightful to read the experiences of these adults, most of whom did not actually get a diagnosis until they were in their 40s or older. I would love a similar collection featuring the experiences of adults who were diagnosed as young children. Temple Grandin's introduction and conclusion to this book are thoughtful and provocative as always.
April 27, 2019
I'd say anyone who has a family member with Asperger's (including a person who has it themselves) should read this book for inspiration. I'd say it would help relieve some of the worry that is probably a parents' worst fear in regard to Asperger's. All these people achieved amazing things & they did it because of determination & perseverance. They are almost all content where they are in life.
I also like the title - it applies to so many things in life, don't you think?
I also like the title - it applies to so many things in life, don't you think?
March 21, 2025
This was such a meaningful, insightful, educational and engaging read to listen to during my communes to work/school.
We follow the story of adults who have Austism/Asperger’s and ADHD, and learn how they coped with their childhood & adult lives with being neuro divergent.
There were many great stories told and left me feeling very inspired that everyone is unique and special and should be treated with respect regardless of their circumstances.
A solid 5* for me!
We follow the story of adults who have Austism/Asperger’s and ADHD, and learn how they coped with their childhood & adult lives with being neuro divergent.
There were many great stories told and left me feeling very inspired that everyone is unique and special and should be treated with respect regardless of their circumstances.
A solid 5* for me!
July 18, 2023
This book was illuminating but for me, kinda depressing and daunting. I did appreciate greatly such candid first person accounts of their lives. I would love an updated version or second round with people who were diagnosed in childhood. How maybe support/services helped them figure out some stuff sooner or some of life was easier?!
April 20, 2019
An important book for individuals on the Spectrum, their families and those who care about them and work with them. Useful suggestions and perspectives to finding jobs, utilizing your special interests and mentors and exploring relationships.
April 9, 2022
Maybe I missed something here, all the contributors were in later life when they learned they had Asperger’s, over 50, and all had the same problems growing up, no friends, getting bullied and not understanding why, just to name a few.
May 8, 2022
The best anthology of autistic stories I've found so far.
A very strong emphasis on employment, which will be a mismatch for those looking for autistic perspectives where more support is needed and employment might not be a realistic goal.
A very strong emphasis on employment, which will be a mismatch for those looking for autistic perspectives where more support is needed and employment might not be a realistic goal.
May 29, 2023
It was interesting to hear these perspectives of adults on the Autism spectrum. I was surprised how much I identified with some of their experiences, and also challenged to consider how I have acted towards any others who don't quite fit in.
August 22, 2017
Very good book on an important topic
September 20, 2023
DNF @ 36%
very meritocratic and fixed moral mindset.
didn't care for Dr. Grandin comments.
very meritocratic and fixed moral mindset.
didn't care for Dr. Grandin comments.
December 23, 2023
very validating to see so much of myself in so many of these stories. i love autistic people:)
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June 27, 2025Compilation of personal stories of people with autism
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February 27, 2021“I respect my betters, not my elders.” - Stewart Forge
April 3, 2024
Informative but dry and clinical feel. I wouldn't use the word inspiring.
January 6, 2025
Temple Grandin’s Different... Not Less is an inspiring collection of real-life stories that highlight the challenges, triumphs, and resilience of adults on the autism spectrum. As an autistic adult myself, I was both moved and intrigued by the diverse experiences shared in this book, but I found myself conflicted about certain aspects. While it offers invaluable insight and hope, it occasionally falls short of its potential.
The Strengths: Empowering and Honest
The book shines in its celebration of neurodiversity. Each contributor’s story is a testament to the resilience and creativity of autistic individuals, showcasing a variety of paths to fulfillment and success. For example, Charli Devnet’s account of finding purpose as a tour guide at the Rockefeller estate deeply resonated with me. She reflects:
"This job has made me very happy, provided me with a touchstone through years of loss and personal tragedy, and given me an opportunity to develop many interpersonal and social skills that I never dreamed I could possess"
Similarly, the contributors’ honesty about the “dark” times—including bullying, relationship struggles, and depression—adds a layer of authenticity to the book. Dr. Tony Attwood sums it up perfectly in the foreword when he describes the book as having “antidepressant qualities to rival those of medication”
The emphasis on perseverance, self-discovery, and the value of mentorship is inspiring. Temple Grandin’s message that “people on the autism spectrum always keep learning. It is never too late to learn new skills, improve relationships, or learn better work skills” is a powerful reminder of the potential for growth at any stage of life
The Challenges: Missing Depth and Systemic Context
That said, the book left me wanting more in several areas. While the contributors’ personal triumphs are inspiring, the stories rarely address systemic challenges in detail. Many contributors succeeded because they found supportive mentors or unique niches, but what about those who don’t have such opportunities? A deeper exploration of how society could become more inclusive for autistic individuals would have enriched the narrative.
The uneven writing styles of the contributors also made the book feel inconsistent at times. While their authenticity is commendable, some chapters felt repetitive or lacked the depth needed to fully engage the reader. Additionally, I found myself wondering if the focus on exceptional achievements might unintentionally overshadow the quieter, everyday successes that are equally valuable.
A Mixed Recommendation
Ultimately, my feelings about Different... Not Less are as complex as the spectrum it seeks to represent. On one hand, it is a powerful, hopeful read that celebrates the unique strengths of autistic individuals. On the other, it sometimes feels incomplete, missing the opportunity to provide broader insights or solutions.
For parents, educators, and allies, this book offers a window into the diverse experiences of autistic adults. For those on the spectrum, it can provide validation and inspiration, though it might not resonate with everyone equally. As Charli Devnet eloquently writes:
"Although few people in the neurotypical world would consider my story indicative of professional success, the personal level of success and fulfillment I have found is invaluable".
I remain undecided between 3 and 4 stars, but I would still recommend this book to anyone wanting to better understand autism. It is a reminder that being “different” is not a limitation, but a unique and valuable perspective.
The Strengths: Empowering and Honest
The book shines in its celebration of neurodiversity. Each contributor’s story is a testament to the resilience and creativity of autistic individuals, showcasing a variety of paths to fulfillment and success. For example, Charli Devnet’s account of finding purpose as a tour guide at the Rockefeller estate deeply resonated with me. She reflects:
"This job has made me very happy, provided me with a touchstone through years of loss and personal tragedy, and given me an opportunity to develop many interpersonal and social skills that I never dreamed I could possess"
Similarly, the contributors’ honesty about the “dark” times—including bullying, relationship struggles, and depression—adds a layer of authenticity to the book. Dr. Tony Attwood sums it up perfectly in the foreword when he describes the book as having “antidepressant qualities to rival those of medication”
The emphasis on perseverance, self-discovery, and the value of mentorship is inspiring. Temple Grandin’s message that “people on the autism spectrum always keep learning. It is never too late to learn new skills, improve relationships, or learn better work skills” is a powerful reminder of the potential for growth at any stage of life
The Challenges: Missing Depth and Systemic Context
That said, the book left me wanting more in several areas. While the contributors’ personal triumphs are inspiring, the stories rarely address systemic challenges in detail. Many contributors succeeded because they found supportive mentors or unique niches, but what about those who don’t have such opportunities? A deeper exploration of how society could become more inclusive for autistic individuals would have enriched the narrative.
The uneven writing styles of the contributors also made the book feel inconsistent at times. While their authenticity is commendable, some chapters felt repetitive or lacked the depth needed to fully engage the reader. Additionally, I found myself wondering if the focus on exceptional achievements might unintentionally overshadow the quieter, everyday successes that are equally valuable.
A Mixed Recommendation
Ultimately, my feelings about Different... Not Less are as complex as the spectrum it seeks to represent. On one hand, it is a powerful, hopeful read that celebrates the unique strengths of autistic individuals. On the other, it sometimes feels incomplete, missing the opportunity to provide broader insights or solutions.
For parents, educators, and allies, this book offers a window into the diverse experiences of autistic adults. For those on the spectrum, it can provide validation and inspiration, though it might not resonate with everyone equally. As Charli Devnet eloquently writes:
"Although few people in the neurotypical world would consider my story indicative of professional success, the personal level of success and fulfillment I have found is invaluable".
I remain undecided between 3 and 4 stars, but I would still recommend this book to anyone wanting to better understand autism. It is a reminder that being “different” is not a limitation, but a unique and valuable perspective.
October 13, 2012
This book is an extremely important one because it is very real and practical. It lets everyone know that, yes, life is hard much of the time, especially in our younger years, often up until we hit middle-age/our 40s, and this is true for everyone but more so for those of us living on the Autistic Spectrum. It also shows that we must not give up, not use our Asperger's or other diagnoses as an excuse, but find the mentors, support groups and creative paths that will lead us to success, happiness and self-actualization.
We are in charge of our own destinies and this work re-iterates that fact. It might go without saying for some (perhaps mostly neurotypical people) that a constant striving and circle of supportive relationships is necessary to ensure happiness as a way of life, and pave the way to eventual success, but it can't be repeated enough for those of us on the spectrum who mostly don't ask for help for a myriad of reasons, and who often don't have a wide enough circle of help, friends and/or support either by choice or by circumstance or both.
This book helps us to recognize that we innately possess a worth which does not have to be proven to any but ourselves, and reminds us without judgment that we have a choice to believe that we owe it to ourselves to fulfill our destiny or to choose the path we already know but ensures a life of continued hardships.
This is not a book for those who want all the steps laid out for them or who wish to find excuses not to try anything new and risk the possible pain of rejection. It is for the brave, but then again, life is for the brave and I feel that if we are still alive there is a very good reason for that! We must recognize our courage and keep on living every day of our lives to the fullest. Hopefully this book will open minds to seeking out the answers for themselves by reaching out and making connections with others in our growing world-wide Autism Community. As many have already pointed out, we are no longer alone. The latest statistic is that 1 in 88 people the world over are living on the Autism Spectrum. There already exist many on-line AS communities. All it takes is taking the time to contact and connect with the ones that share similar views. The ones I'm in are very supportive and informative and I'm so glad and grateful to be a part of these groups.
We are in charge of our own destinies and this work re-iterates that fact. It might go without saying for some (perhaps mostly neurotypical people) that a constant striving and circle of supportive relationships is necessary to ensure happiness as a way of life, and pave the way to eventual success, but it can't be repeated enough for those of us on the spectrum who mostly don't ask for help for a myriad of reasons, and who often don't have a wide enough circle of help, friends and/or support either by choice or by circumstance or both.
This book helps us to recognize that we innately possess a worth which does not have to be proven to any but ourselves, and reminds us without judgment that we have a choice to believe that we owe it to ourselves to fulfill our destiny or to choose the path we already know but ensures a life of continued hardships.
This is not a book for those who want all the steps laid out for them or who wish to find excuses not to try anything new and risk the possible pain of rejection. It is for the brave, but then again, life is for the brave and I feel that if we are still alive there is a very good reason for that! We must recognize our courage and keep on living every day of our lives to the fullest. Hopefully this book will open minds to seeking out the answers for themselves by reaching out and making connections with others in our growing world-wide Autism Community. As many have already pointed out, we are no longer alone. The latest statistic is that 1 in 88 people the world over are living on the Autism Spectrum. There already exist many on-line AS communities. All it takes is taking the time to contact and connect with the ones that share similar views. The ones I'm in are very supportive and informative and I'm so glad and grateful to be a part of these groups.
June 4, 2012
Different…Not Less: Inspiring Stories of Achievement and Successful Employment from Adults with Autism, Asperger’s and ADHD is a brand new collection of essays showcasing individuals with a developmental disability who have nonetheless found meaningful and fulfilling careers.
The stories are not without their emotional ups and downs. Each contributor has faced his or her share of detractors and even bullies, but has also encountered those who have accepted and even embraced their differences. Dr. Temple Grandin, who compiled the book, is herself an example of someone who persevered through many challenges to find her place in the world, and who has indeed excelled in a number of different arenas.
Different…Not Less includes essays from fourteen different individuals, ranging from “techies” to medical professionals to artists to some who are themselves involved in the area of autism advocacy.
Read the rest of my review at 5 Minutes for Books.
The stories are not without their emotional ups and downs. Each contributor has faced his or her share of detractors and even bullies, but has also encountered those who have accepted and even embraced their differences. Dr. Temple Grandin, who compiled the book, is herself an example of someone who persevered through many challenges to find her place in the world, and who has indeed excelled in a number of different arenas.
Different…Not Less includes essays from fourteen different individuals, ranging from “techies” to medical professionals to artists to some who are themselves involved in the area of autism advocacy.
Read the rest of my review at 5 Minutes for Books.
July 22, 2014
It's good to hear the stories of autistic people - autistic people tend to be talked about more than listened to, so I enjoyed this greatly. Almost all of the writers are in their 50s and were diagnosed with ASD as adults, which did make me wish for a little more variation in their life stories, but it was interesting that they are shared a few common threads leading to life success - good mentors, early work experience, and the ability to follow their interests toward a sense of purpose. More disheartening was the common thread of bullying that most of them experienced, surprisingly not only as children (in school) but even as adults (in the workplace)... it made me sad that so many were targeted for being different.
October 3, 2015
Grandin's words really resonate with me more than any of the other books on Asperger's I've been delving into over the past year. Most people don't appreciate her approach, however I relate well to it due to having been raised mostly in the way she recommends. There's entirely too much free reign and excuse making and little discipline and the people showcased in this book show what happens when you have guidance early on. A must read for anyone especially parents who think that this dx is a death sentence.
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