The Fabric of Autism, Weaving The Threads Into A Cogent Theory

by Judith Bluestone

In The Fabric of Autism: Weaving the Threads into a Cogent Theory, Judith Bluestone combines her personal autistic experience with acedemic research and over 40 years of clinical practice to craft a unique and compelling view of the phenomenon called autism. Bluestone's book is both a significant clinical work and a moving memoir that illuminates the humanity beneath the brewildering facade of autism. Infused with rare and hard won insights into the etiology of autistic behaviors, this book weaves the various threads of autism into a sensible theory while simultaneously offering practical tools for strengthening the interactive systems of the body-brain-mind-spirit.The Fabric of Autism takes it's readers on a riveting journey into the world of individuals whose lives are influenced by ASD, most of whom have achieved significant improvements in their communication, general functioning and quality of life with the help of HANDLE- Holistic Approach to NeuroDevelopment and Learning Efficiency. The Fabric of Autism shows us that compassion, understanding and intuition can co-exisit with neuroscience, as it provides a new view and appreciation of the complex neurological dysfunction labeled autism.

Genres: Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Health, Nonfiction, Psychology

260 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

i found this to be a very interesting read, especially coming from a behavior stand-point. Judith Bluestone created a program called HANDLE for use with people on the autism spectrum, as well as people with social issues, etc. she herself suffered from a form of autism, so i think the strength of the book lies in her ability to explain why these things we think are "so strange" actually make sense.

i was frustrated, however, with her clear implication that ABA or any behavior therapy was basically useless - especially when so much of what she talked about intersects perfectly with quality behavior therapy. we don't hate coping mechanisms!! just ones that are self-destructive/quality of life impairing, and i wish she could have seen that.

the book is a great introduction to HANDLE, however, and explains how you can do it yourself - as a person with autism, or as a "helper". it's refreshing in its simplicity, and inventive with new "holistic" approaches to dealing with issues of the receptive systems.

i thought it was a little too simple at times, and a little too "it's so easy!", and it might have benefited from an update with new findings in the field related to neurology, etc. but all in all, it's a good foundation book. especially now that i've been to a training, i can see how well the book really does explain how to do the exercises, which is always great for people who can't afford to have a training session, etc.

[Sarah Moore · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is very informative and I would actually recommend it to anyone looking to learn about the subject, but it’s convoluted to read. In part, that’s due to the subject matter: truly making the case (which I appreciate) for a holistic approach since autism is woven together by so many different strands. Yet the book feels like it meanders all over, as a result, and can be hard to follow. Any given chapter covers a range of topics and rarely stays on focus. For example, a chapter on sleep, starts off talking about how sleep interplays with autism, but goes on a rabbit trail of how autism presents in different age groups, before ending without ever returning to the topic of sleep. It’s still a wealth of info and interweaves the science of brain function with case studies. Sometimes it’s a bit heavy on the case study and I’d prefer more explanation of the neuroscience that is often summarized very quickly. The book also reads a bit like a long informercial, constantly pointing back to the author’s developed method of autism therapy. I’m sure it’s helpful and valuable, but so little is shared about *what* that therapy is or how it actually works, that it ends up a bit frustrating. There is an appendix that lists some of the more practical bits, but the focus is still more on pursuing a therapist trained in her method. Also, the book likely may already be outdated (written in 2004) but still provides a thorough overview into how many different facets and factors contribute to autism (and therefore need to be addressed). I’d consider it a great jumping off point to discover more areas to dig into deeper and more currently.

[Aleksander · Rating 3 out of 5]

Książka ma już 20 lat i mam wrażenie, że sporo rzeczy nie zestarzało się dobrze. Kilka kontrowersyjnych tez, ale ogólnie sama książka pozwala w ciekawy sposób wejść w świat autysty. Dla mnie na pewno ważna z perspektywy holistycznego podejścia do człowieka, jak również zwróciła moją uwagę na kwestie środowiskowe w kontekście zaburzeń neurorozwojowych.
Osobiście na pewno w przyszłości bliżej przyjrzę się metodyce HANDLE (Holistic Approach to NeuroDevelopment and Learning Efficiency) zapoczątkowanej przez autorkę.

[Mona Akmal · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Autism conferences beat the drum of ABA, there are geniuses like Judith whose work doesn’t get the attention it deserves. This was a remarkable book. By far the most nuanced, rich, neurodiverse explanation of neurodiversity. I understand my nephew and so many other people with Autism in my life better. And I know I can now be more helpful.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a special needs pediatric nurse for a dozen years. This books gives caregivers insight into what it’s like to be in the spectrum, but it also applies to neurological disorders and genetic disorders that culminate in developmental delays and disorders. Everyone should read this book. Judith Bluestone worked with one of my patients, phenomenal.

[Brenna Bonner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book because I want to understand my nephew, and through understanding him, love him more. This book is very "readable" and easy for a regular person to understand. With interspersed case studies and personal sharing (Dr. Bluestone is on the spectrum) it is interesting and engaging reading. I now have a glimpse of the answers to my questions (why???) about Ian. Thanks Darla, for sharing these answers with me through my favorite venue, a book.

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like their ideas on how to help children and adults with their Autism. Their approach to find the symptoms rather than cover the symptoms up, to have the body's systems come together to work in harmony rather than working on one system at a time, and so forth. I appreciated how the topics discussed were backed up by real examples of former clients. There was a lot of good information presented in this book!

[Jeniann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was life changing for me and the way that I deal with my son who is PDD/NOS (high functioning autism). It talks about the physiologically characteristics of people on the autism spectrum and how they perceive the world and how you can support and help them. It helped me to see things from my son's point of view and have more empathy for him and his challenges.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this since the HANDLE program was put forth as a possibility for my brain injury. I realized the program wasn't for me, but continued reading as the book was interesting and had some good insights.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for teachers/parents.

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a true rating as I couldn't finish it. Seemed good, but just putting it here for future reference

[Dry Can · Rating 5 out of 5]

a must read for those seeking to identify and understand the coping methods used by a autistic individual. Insightful and holistic.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book...Learned so much!

[Elizabeth AcesoUnderGlass · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found done of these exercises helpful, but the science is absolutely atrocious.

[Shauna Hamm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book I've read on autism. Holistic and comprehensive understanding of root causes for puzzling behaviours.