How to start, carry on and end conversations: Scripts for social situations for people on the autism spectrum

by Paul Jordan, Anthony Attwood (Foreword)

Do you find it hard to make friends? Do you struggle to know what to say to start a conversation?

In this book, Paul Jordan, who is on the autism spectrum, explains how to make sense of everyday social situations you might encounter at school, university or in other group settings. He reveals how, with the use of just 65 simple words, it is possible to create 'scripts for thinking' that break conversations down into small chunks and help you to think of what to say, whether you are speaking to a fellow student, starting a conversation with a new friend, calling out bullies or answering a teacher's question.

These small words will be a big help for all teenagers and young people with ASD.

Genres: Nonfiction, Autistic Spectrum Disorder

90 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 21, 2017

About the author

I am an autistic celibate published author.

Reviews

[Carlisle · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a member of the BookTrib Book Club, I was deeply moved by How to Start, Carry On, and End Conversations. This isn’t just another “communication skills” book it’s a genuinely thoughtful and compassionate guide for young autistic readers who often feel left out of social circles or overwhelmed by conversation expectations.

What impressed me most is how clear, kind, and respectful Paul’s approach is. Nothing feels forced or patronizing. Instead, each page offers encouragement, relatable examples, and practical steps that build confidence rather than pressure. You can feel that this book was written with real understanding and genuine care for neurodiverse teens.

In our club discussion, we kept returning to how empowering this book is. It gives young readers tools to navigate conversations but more importantly, it helps them realize they are already enough, and communication is simply another skill they can learn, not a judgment on who they are.

This is a resource every parent, teacher, and support center should have on hand and a comforting companion for any young autistic person wanting to find their voice in a world that doesn't always slow down to listen.

[Kenji · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paul Jordan delivers an incredibly thoughtful and accessible guide to understanding social dynamics, especially for young people who often find conversations overwhelming. His 65-word “scripts for thinking” provide structure without feeling rigid, and they offer readers a real sense of control over everyday interactions. While reading this title as part of the BookTrib Book Club, I was continually impressed by how clearly the author translates lived experience into practical, reliable tools that teens can use immediately. This is an outstanding resource for anyone on the spectrum seeking confidence in social communication.

[Jerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paul Jordan offers a remarkably insightful and structured approach to understanding everyday communication. The clarity with which he breaks down conversations into manageable steps is both practical and empowering. During our FreshFiction Book Club evaluation, members consistently highlighted how the 65-word script method provides a dependable framework for young people who often feel unsure of what to say. This guide stands out as a meaningful, experience-driven resource that can make social interactions far less overwhelming.

[Ried · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jordan’s approach to communication is refreshingly direct, breaking down social complexity into manageable patterns that are easy to practice and master. His personal insight adds credibility, while the practical scripts offer immediate value to readers. In the heart of our FreshFiction Book Club review session, members emphasized how rare it is to find a guide that is both simple and truly effective for real-world situations. This book deserves wide recognition for its clarity, usefulness, and empathetic design.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book delivers a thoughtful blueprint for navigating social situations, especially for teens and young adults on the autism spectrum. Jordan’s explanations are concise yet impactful, and each script is presented with encouraging clarity. In the midst of our FreshFiction Book Club discussion, it became clear that these techniques offer real-world value and can be used immediately in academic, social, and community environments. A highly practical and compassionate guide.

[Jame · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paul Jordan combines personal experience with a structured, methodical approach that makes this guide exceptionally effective. The step-by-step scripts serve as reliable tools for anyone seeking to build confidence in conversation. FreshFiction Book Club members noted during our analysis that the book’s simplicity is its greatest strength each section provides clarity without overwhelming the reader. This is an excellent resource for educators, families, and students alike.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This guide surpasses expectations in both practicality and accessibility. Jordan skillfully addresses common social challenges by breaking them down into manageable components, offering clear language choices that can be reused in countless situations. When evaluated halfway through our FreshFiction Book Club meeting, the group universally agreed that the 65-word foundation is a smart and adaptable strategy, especially for young people looking to strengthen social competence.

[Jullie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jordan’s book provides an exceptional roadmap for developing stronger, more confident communication habits. His lived experience brings authenticity to every example, making the guidance relatable and trustworthy. Within our FreshFiction Book Club conversation, members appreciated how the book reduces the anxiety surrounding social interactions by offering straightforward, repeatable scripts. This is a resource that can truly support growth and independence.

[Darren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a standout contribution to assisting teens and young adults on the autism spectrum with communication skills. Each section is thoughtfully organized, making it easy for readers to understand, practice, and apply the strategies provided. During our FreshFiction Book Club assessment, numerous members remarked on how effectively the book transforms complex social tasks into achievable actions. A well-crafted, compassionate, and highly practical guide.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The brilliance of this book lies in its clarity and real-world usability. By reducing conversations into intentional, repeatable scripts, Jordan empowers readers to take control of social situations with confidence. When discussed in FreshFiction Book Club, it was unanimously recognized that these tools are beneficial not only for individuals with ASD but for anyone seeking structured guidance in communication. An excellent and thoughtfully designed resource.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paul Jordan’s guidance is both practical and compassionate, offering teens and young adults concrete steps for beginning, maintaining, and ending conversations. The examples are realistic, accessible, and easy to integrate into daily life. FreshFiction Book Club members, during our mid-session review, praised the book for providing stability and clear direction in moments that often feel unpredictable. A well-written and highly supportive tool.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

This guide succeeds in making the art of conversation feel attainable. Jordan’s 65-word concept is innovative, memorable, and incredibly effective for building confidence. As highlighted in the center of our FreshFiction Book Club discussion, many members felt the book provides readers with a sense of structure that is often missing in social learning resources. A must-read for families, educators, and young people wanting guidance they can rely on.

[Joann A.! · Rating 5 out of 5]

“A must-have guide for teens with ASD and their parents!”
Paul Jordan’s approach is refreshingly simple and compassionate. He breaks down the art of conversation into manageable steps that actually work in real-life situations. My teen found the examples relatable and the tone encouraging not overwhelming. This book truly builds confidence where it’s needed most.

[Theresa Hildebrand · Rating 2 out of 5]

As a parent of a teenager on the spectrum, I can see how this guide could be useful. The fact that it is less than 100 pages & broken up into chapters that would apply to mostly everyone is great. It would be a useful tool for parents as well as educators, therapists, etc.

[Kate Keaveny · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was written for teenagers, however as a parent of a teenager with autism it felt too complicated to give the helps it suggests. I found it hard to see how it would help as it was somewhat difficult to follow and didn’t really help my daughter.

[Aria Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a parent of a child on the spectrum, I could feel Paul’s personal experience in every chapter. His honesty and empathy make the book powerful. It’s not just instructional it’s inspiring. You can tell he genuinely wants to help others.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many communication guides feel clinical, but this one feels human. Paul speaks directly to young readers in a voice that’s kind, patient, and real. The strategies are practical and easy to practice every day.

[John]

If Tony Attwood endorses it, you know it’s exceptional. This book offers clarity and support for teens who often feel lost in social settings. Paul Jordan’s insights make conversation seem not only possible but enjoyable.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Educators in our BookTrib Book Club praised this as one of the most useful ASD guides they’ve seen. Paul’s insight offers a bridge between understanding and support it belongs in every school library.

[Lucinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

In our BookTrib Book Club review session, readers described this book as “life-changing.” It helps both teens and their families replace social anxiety with understanding and confidence. Absolutely inspiring.

[Jonal]

The BookTrib Book Club unanimously agreed: this is more than a guide it’s a gift. Paul Jordan’s compassion and insight prove that conversation can be learned, enjoyed, and celebrated. A must-read this season.

[Micheal · Rating 5 out of 5]

The BookTrib Book Club loved Paul Jordan’s gentle tone and easy-to-follow advice. His real-life perspective turns what could be intimidating lessons into moments of empowerment. Teens will see themselves in these pages.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our BookTrib Book Club members were deeply moved by Paul’s mission to help others with ASD. This guide doesn’t just teach conversation it builds bridges to understanding, empathy, and self-confidence.

[Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Members of the BookTrib Book Club praised how every chapter feels like advice from a trusted friend. Paul’s strategies are clear, achievable, and make everyday interactions feel less stressful and more natural.

[Gabriel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Parents in our BookTrib Book Club called this one of the best books they’ve read for teens on the spectrum. It explains not just how to talk, but why conversations matter in a way kids actually understand.

[Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

One BookTrib Book Club reader said, “This isn’t just a guide it’s a friend in book form.” Paul Jordan’s voice is reassuring and kind, offering understanding instead of pressure. Perfect for teens finding their way.

[Ayo]

The BookTrib Book Club loved how Paul breaks down the art of conversation without overwhelming readers. His words are encouraging, practical, and full of heart perfect for the holiday reading season.

[Matthew · Rating 5 out of 5]

The BookTrib Book Club admired Paul’s straightforward approach. His compassion shines through, making complex social skills feel manageable. A wonderful addition to any family or classroom library.

[Callum · Rating 5 out of 5]

With Christmas approaching, our BookTrib Book Club recommends this as a thoughtful gift for families, educators, and anyone supporting teens with ASD. It’s not just informative it’s uplifting.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

My son has been practicing some of the techniques from this book, and I can already see his confidence growing. It’s remarkable how small adjustments like how to start or end a chat can make such a difference.