Born on the Wrong Planet

by Erika Hammerschmidt

This story of the childhood and young adulthood of Erika Hammerschmidt, a young woman diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, takes the reader into a confusing and often tumultuous world, including the years of dating and ultimate marriage to John, a young man who is also on the spectrum. The author began compiling the many stories, poems and essays she penned during and after high school when she studied abroad and, ultimately, Born on the Wrong Planet came to be. Throughout this book, Erika s unique language skills and her fresh perspective on the world combine to make a delightful and enlightening read.

Genres: Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Nonfiction, Memoir

198 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

About the author

My first name is Erika. Not Erica. Not Ericka. My last name is Hammerschmidt, which has thirteen letters, including five consonants in a row. People still find it easier to spell than my first name.

In college I majored in German and Spanish. I also accidentally minored in art, just by taking so many art classes for the fun of it. I grow my own vegetables and sew my own clothes. I am obsessed with pet birds and reptiles. I make jewelry that looks like a Renaissance Fair gone wild.

I'm an author, artist and speaker who moved from Minnesota to Pennsylvania, and then to Los Angeles. Going by temperature, I'm on the road to hell.

I work in a pharmacy as well as giving speeches on autism and writing books.

Reviews

[Emily Lilja Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book not only because I'm a teacher who appreciates the insight, and not only because I love autobiography, but because of Erika's courage & candor in sharing her story. It's so engaging I read it in two nights.

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought this book at a comic book convention last year. After a brief discussion with the author, she mentioned that she was diagnosed with Aspergers. Inside my head, I thought "big surprise". Outloud I mentioned that I worked with teenagers on the Autism Spectrum. I liked the book. It tells about her experience growing up with the diagnoses of Aspergers and Tourettes. I think the author might be surprised to know just how similar many of her experiences were to those of us considered to be neurotypical. Some, though, were very different.

I enjoyed the book. Erika Hammerschmidt is a capable writer. At times, the story can feel like a recitation of details, instead of a grippingly well told story, which can happen with memoirs. It has, in fact, happened with another memoir I am reading at the moment. But the author is young, and has many years to nurture her writing. I am looking forward to reading the book I bought from her at this year's comicon.

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This autobiographical vignette exposes the struggles of growing up with autism. The author herself is intellectually and linguistically gifted and gives a voice to others not so inclined. My compassionate for those living with this condition increased exponentially through this read. I really can't praise it enough. Remember it is speculated that Bill Gates has Asperger's Syndrome. Worth the read due to an upturn in what is known also known as "the geek syndrome".

[Stephanie A. · Rating 1 out of 5]

I read this book in 2006 and I can't remember a word of it, but Past Me gave half stars in her ratings and was usually generous, so a solid 1 is damning evidence of how little enjoyment there was to be had.

[JonnieAngel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A series of essays, it was easy to follow and difficult to put down. Written from the point of view of someone with Aspergers, it gives insight into the mind of a girl who is universally misunderstood.

I highly recommend it.

[Meaghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting perspective and a collection of essays, so easy for pick up, put down reading.

[Brandi J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!!!