Funny, You Don't Look Autistic: A Comedian's Guide to Life on the Spectrum

by Michael McCreary

Length: 3 hrs and 37 mins

Slaying autism stereotypes with stand-up, one joke at a time. Like many others on the autism spectrum, 20-something stand-up comic Michael McCreary has been told by more than a few well-meaning folks that he doesn't "look" autistic. But, as he's quick to point out in this memoir, autism "looks" different for just about everyone with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Diagnosed with ASD at age five, McCreary got hit with the performance bug not much later. During a difficult time in junior high, he started journaling, eventually turning his pain e into something empowering--and funny. He scored his first stand-up gig at age 14, and hasn't looked back. An #OwnVoices memoir breaks down what it's like to live with autism for readers on and off the spectrum.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Audiobook, Humor, Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Biography, Biography Memoir

Audiobook

First published March 12, 2019

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Non-Fiction Memoir. I really enjoyed listening to this book. I have two autistic kids (one boy and one girl) and my husband is autistic. I really love when he talks about taking the autistic test. It is an all day test, and yes some doctors are better then others. Parents has to answer a ton of question has well. My son took the test once when he was 2.5 years old and of course I was the parent that went with him and answer the million questions. My daughter took the test twice (It is so much harder to get girls to get diagnosis has autistic) when she was 7 years old and 9 years old, and I was the parent that answer the million question both times. I agree every autistic person is very different my husband (cannot stand loud sounds and he has to been moving all the time), my son (loves sounds and moving is his friend- he is always flipping his hands and throwing things), and my daughter (get overwhelm very easy and over thinks things so much). I really understood the author of this book. This book let me see how maybe my kids and husband feels. I love reading books about or has autism in it.

[Andi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'd never heard of Michael McCreary and am not at all familiar with his work, so I went into this book totally blind, but as a memoir by a standup comedian, I was expecting it to be, well, funny. There are occasional jokes here, and the tone is mostly light, but I wouldn't really class the book as a whole as humor. It's mostly a straightforward memoir, and the problem is that, from what's been presented here, this guy's life just hasn't been interesting enough yet to justify a memoir. That's not meant as a slight, by any means; I'm sure he's worked hard to get where he is, and good for him. But he's only 22, for heaven's sake; he was diagnosed early, grew up in a loving, supportive family who had the means to provide him with treatment options, enrichment opportunities, and support him as he embarked on his standup career. There's no significant conflict here, no huge obstacles to be overcome, and the biggest wisdom gained is how to deal with schoolyard bullies. As a portrait of growing up with autism, it certainly has some value in terms of representation, but in terms of educating, there's not much here you wouldn't find on a quick scroll through the autism hashtags on Twitter. [EDIT: I didn't realize when I checked out the e-audiobook, but apparently my library catalogs this in the teen section. That makes more sense; a teenager would probably be a lot more interested in the memoir of a 22-year-old than I am.]

Another small thing -- I don't really recommend the audiobook version. His tone and cadence took a bit of getting used to, which wouldn't be a huge deal, but apparently the print book also has several pictures and graphics that don't translate to audio, so he'd just break off and say essentially, "Go look at this thing on this website!"

Anyway, I'd love to hear what he has to say in 30 years, looking back on life as a comedian with autism, and see how that pans out for him. But right now, it doesn't seem like he has all that much original to say yet. A teenager might appreciate this more, especially one with autism or comedy career aspirations (or both), but it wasn't a hit for me.

[Anna lost in stories *A* · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s not much more I can tell you about this book than what’s already explained in the synopsis :) this is an #OwnVoices memoir written by Michael McCreary, who was diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) when he was five and how his life looked after that… how he fell in love with performing and how his everyday life was like… I am especially recommending you the audiobook version because Michael narrates it himself and it’s like a great conversation with your friend… one who quite openly shares his life with you… it’s especially important for people like me, who were not diagnosed with ASD, because it teaches us quite a few interesting and important things, while at the same time still is entertaining and so much more than a story about a comic with ASD :) please, pick up this book and educate yourself a bit to better understand people around you :)

XOXO

A

[Lisa (NY) · Rating 4 out of 5]

[3.5] This short book is an offbeat primer on autism, peppered with anecdotes on the author's life. It felt too basic for me, but I think it would be a comforting and informative guide for families (and friends) new to autism. Teens on the spectrum might also enjoy it.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shit. I was doing just fine listening to this, and then literally, in the space of one sentence in the epilogue, I'm crying and heartbroken. Not. Cool.

I snagged this on a whim as it was one of those virtual book club reads from one of the digital libraries that I use. For most of this short audiobook, I could identify with the title. Michael McCreary does not come across as stereotypically autistic. Obviously, it's a spectrum, and people with autism/ASD will have varying degrees of "presentation" (for lack of a better word). Listening to him describe his experiences and the ways that he learned to live with and through autism, was really interesting and (sorry to use the dreaded "I" word) inspirational. I don't mean it in the "Look how special and awesome you are that you are able to overcome disability like that" way (well... maybe a little), but more of the way that he, or ANYONE, was able to recognize what he loved and was good at, and then make a life from that. Now... if only reading, eating, and sleeping was a market that I could somehow corner and make a career.

One of the things that I really, really liked about this was Michael's relationship with his (also autistic) younger brother Matthew (Matty). They had very different types of autism though. Michael didn't speak until he was three, and then spoke entirely in movie quotes, whereas Matty spoke before age one... but slowly stopped verbal communication around age three, and was non-verbal afterwards. Michael was hyper-sensitive to crowds and loud noises and temperature variation and texture and such... while Matty was hypo-sensitive, loved loud noises, activity, and had to be carefully watched to ensure that he didn't burn himself or freeze because he just didn't feel discomfort from those things.

I loved the way that Michael had to learn how to understand Matty, and that his epiphany came from a conference on autism where a random stranger asked how they can better interact with their child, who seems to only engage with them for specific actions over and over. Matty was the same - he would watch a few minutes of a movie at a time, and enlist one of the family to change it... constantly. He'd also wake Michael up throughout the night and essentially steal wherever he was sleeping. The answer to that parent was to find something you both enjoy doing, and engage via that activity. For Michael and Matty, that was jumping on a trampoline, and they connected through jumping. It was just such an interesting section, and really shows the variance of the autism spectrum. I just really appreciated how he was not only learning about himself and his own autism, but how to relate to his brother's needs because of HIS autism.

So... at the end, the epilogue really dropped the floor out from under me. I was not prepared for that, and it broke my heart. This turned from a lighthearted interesting memoir to a gut-punch in about 10 seconds when he related that Matty died suddenly from a grand mal seizure while swimming and drowned. So horribly sad. :(

Otherwise, I did enjoy this book, and I feel like I learned quite a bit. I am no expert on autism, and I don't think that this book will make me one, but it's still good to read and learn about experiences in life different than mine.

Though I'm 100% in agreement that sock seams are intolerable.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a pretty good autobiography about comedian Michael McCreary who has autism and how he views life being on the spectrum. I enjoy autobiographies and reading about people who have autism and what it is like to have it through their point of view. I have autism as well and its great to read these books as they are inspiring and give great life lessons like never give up on your dreams and more.

Be sure to check this book out at your local library and wherever books are sold.

[☮Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I borrowed this on a spur of the moment knowing nothing about it, because (1) it was short, and (2) I admittedly know very little about autism but have been curious, especially since there is a teenage boy in the neighborhood. The author was diagnosed as being on the spectrum at the age of five, after his parents already had one autistic son. The two boys together illustrate how wide the spectrum is, and how one can change, for better or worse, after that first initial diagnosis. While Michael functions fairly well in social situations (after much trial and error), his brother lost all use of words over time and had greater needs.

I learned a lot listening to this. Michael has really packed so much information into such a short book. He has accomplished so much in his short life and readily admits it is pretty unusual to write a memoir at 22. But that is what he did, all the while performing comedy routines at venues in Canada, making documentaries, and attending filmmaking camp. The book is funny and tender hearted.

He narrated it himself and I enjoyed listening to him a lot: a very funny guy.

[Mariah Roze · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was the free library book for the month. Which means there is an unlimited amount of people that can check it out at the same time. So of course, I had to check it out! Michael McCreary was hilarious! I think his book is great for anyone to read. He really educates others about Autism, but in an easy, funny way.

I suggest the book to everyone!

"Slaying autism stereotypes with stand-up, one joke at a time. Like many others on the autism spectrum, 20-something stand-up comic Michael McCreary has been told by more than a few well-meaning folks that he doesn't "look" autistic. But, as he's quick to point out in this memoir, autism "looks" different for just about everyone with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Diagnosed with ASD at age five, McCreary got hit with the performance bug not much later. During a difficult time in junior high, he started journaling, eventually turning his pain e into something empowering--and funny. He scored his first stand-up gig at age 14, and hasn't looked back. An #OwnVoices memoir breaks down what it's like to live with autism for readers on and off the spectrum."

[Banshee · Rating 3 out of 5]

The memoir wasn't exactly laugh-out-loud funny for me, but I enjoyed the light-hearted tone used for the subject that can be very heavy and I cracked a smile a few times.

It was interesting to see the world from a subjective perspective of a person on a spectrum. I would be interested to read more #ownvoices non-fiction like this.

I have 2 complaints, though:
1. Some of the examples of the situations weren't well-selected, in my opinion, to see the uniqueness of an ASD-wired brain. Many neurotypical people would have very similar reactions to some of them.
2. I was disappointed to realise how young the author is. I expected to learn about experiences of an ASD person as a comedian. What I got was school memories of a person at the beginning of life.

[Rachel (TheShadesofOrange) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.0 Stars
This was a fantastic ownvoices memoir that provided one man's unique perspective of life on the Autism spectrum. The memoir was a good blend of humour and poignant stories. I recommend the audiobook version which is narrated by the author who did a great job bringing his story to life.

[Bam cooks the books · Rating 4 out of 5]

**World Autism Awareness Day--April 2, 2020**
**Big Library Read Online Media pick for March 23-April 13, 2020**

"What is autism?"

"The simplest definition is that autism is a neurological variation. In less fancy language, it's a difference in your brain and how it's wired. You see and process things differently from people who are the norm--what we in the ASD community call neurotypical.

Michael McCreary is a twenty-something stand-up comedian who was diagnosed with autism at the age of five. He has written this humorous memoir about his experiences and attempts to bring some understanding about ASD and how those on the spectrum see and react to the world around them.

[Emma-Kate Schaake · Rating 2 out of 5]

A super quick read without much substance. Yay for representation, but, as the writer himself even mentions, there’s not a lot of profound reflection to happen when you’re 22 (and have had a upper middle class, medically cared for ASD upbringing, with the privilege of chasing comedy dreams at 18).

[Helen Power · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lighthearted perspective on what it’s like to be autistic. It wasn’t quite what I was expecting, because the author is quite young, and all his stories and experience was from his childhood and teenage years. So, there aren’t many stories from the entertainment industry, but a couple from internships and comedy camp, etc.
In general, this book isn’t laugh out loud funny, but there were a few observations/comments that were. One thing I really appreciated about it is how the author doesn’t pretend that his experience is universal. His brother is also on the autism spectrum and the two of them could not be more different. Honestly, my favourite parts of this entire book involved him and his brother, and I kind of hope (wish) that the author will write another set of memoirs that focuses on the two of them. My favourite part of this entire book was when Michael had his Eureka moment that helped him to understand his brother better. So cute!
Anyway, this is an entertaining and informative read, if not a little misleading by stating it’s about a comedian, when in reality it’s just at the beginning of his career.

[Lisa (Remarkablylisa) · Rating 3 out of 5]

a heart touching read that was a BIG LIBRARY READ from toronto public library

[BookNightOwl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Listen to the audiobook. Wanted more of a backstory from him. But listen to it all in one sitting.

[b. ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This memoir was short and sweet, but I think it could have been great had it been written once McCreary had about 30 more years of life experience under his belt. There just isn’t much substance yet, and it shows.

Maybe I feel this way because the author is (I’m 99% sure) the same age as me and I definitely feel like I haven’t lived enough to write a whole book about it, but I do think a younger reader (especially one also on the spectrum) might really enjoy this memoir.

All this being said, I’m glad we are getting more #ownvoices books like this one; they are beyond important now more than ever.

[Philip · Rating 4 out of 5]

Note that this is "a comedian's guide," not "a comedic guide" because this is not a particularly funny book. Informative, inspirational…but when one sees "comedian" in the title, one expects a little more humor somewhere along the line.

I have a son on the spectrum, but we went through the whole worried parent thing nearly thirty years ago now - so nice to read that things have improved somewhat since then, both in how Aspie's are accepted as well as overall advances in understanding of the whole thing.

Interestingly, my son was also bitten by the performance bug at a very young age…would be interested to see if that is a common thing? However, he thankfully - at least from a parent's perspective - didn't pursue this beyond local theater, and instead majored in aerospace engineering, where he really is considerably more talented and definitely better paid; especially when one looks at the sad goings-on in Hollywood these days; where even major stars don't know where their next paycheck is coming from, and even the lowly "extra" - often the bread-and-butter role for many of those going to LA to "make it in movies" - is being replaced by AI replicants. So yeah, we are happy, relieved (and enormously proud) parents.

Basically a 3-star read, but I'm rounding up on principle and for its personal relevance, as well as to give young Michael encouragement and support - God knows he's going to need it.

[Laura (thenerdygnomelife) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not sure what I expected of this book, or even if I had any expectations going in, but I definitely came out of it feeling a little ... unsatisfied? Based on the title, I thought there would be a few more punchlines to it, but this book rarely strays into stand-up territory. Instead, it's a frank look at McCreary's childhood and early adulthood as an autistic, combined with helpful tidbits for those who may be wanting to learn more about the spectrum. I might have enjoyed this book more if it had chosen one path or the other (memoir or informational text) rather than trying to split the difference. Still, I did find some helpful perspectives within, and as a short read/listen, it might be a worthwhile read for you if you're looking to add more voices to your understanding of the autistic spectrum experience.

[Carmel Hanes · Rating 3 out of 5]

For those who don't have much background in ASD, this book offers a good close-up of some of the challenges it offers, along with how this particular person learned and coped over the years. It's a good reminder that the diagnosis doesn't mean anything in particular, as the spectrum is as wide as all humanity, and how it manifests covers enough ground to circle the earth.

It was interesting to hear his journey and I was occasionally surprised by what worked for him, despite my years of working with people who shared some of those challenges. I can't say I learned much, because of my own background, but it did reinforce certain beliefs and observations. It made me curious to see his comedy routine, and I confess to envying his meeting Temple Grandin. That story was one of my favorites.

[Marta · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Am I a comic, or am I an autism advocate who tells some jokes?” - wonders McCreary, and it sort of sums the book up for me. He is a twenty-two year old stand-up comic with autism. How much life experience does a sheltered kid have? Well, predictably, grammar school, middle school, high school, and a few comedy shows at autism events. So this book mostly reads like a kid’s school experiences intermixed with PSAs about autism.

His writing provides valuable insight into an autistic person’s mind, especially if you are not familiar with the typical manifestations. Social cues and interactions are challenging, and autistic kids might get bullied, often not understanding what’s happening. They might be too quiet or annoyingly loud. McCreary is the second kind. Autistic people also often have problems with jokes, as subtlety and double meanings are difficult for literal minds. Which makes it counter intuitive that Michael decides to become a comedian, but it makes sense when he discovers that people often consider his observations funny. He is hooked and starts perfecting his art, with the goal of becoming a full time comedian.

There is definitely good understanding to gain here, however if you already know about autism, the little information boxes are rather too simplistic. The writing is adequate, there is some humor, but nothing to make you roll on the floor. Overall, McCreary is way too young to write a memoir. Just not enough material here.

[Brittany McCann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very short and sweet biographical account of author and comedian Michael McCreary. It was humorous, while talking about the author's experiences growing up and how he took austism into a comedic career.

What stood out to me as an autistic female was the total support that he received from having an early diagnosis and how, even with some growing pains, he was able to always know what was going on with a family who supported and backed him up. Having never had any inkling that I may have autism until my late 30s/early 40s. I am envious of this. He always knew who he was and was able to live accordingly. I wonder how different my life would be had I been given those same assurances and support.

I could and still can absolutely relate to the issues with people who do not have your best interest at heart or who can lie with a smile on their face.

He was funny, not over the top, but someone that will make you chuckle. I honestly had never heard of him before this book, and only picked it up because of the word Autistic in the title.

Worth a read, 3.75 stars rounded up.

[Dru83 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael McCreary is a comedian from Canada who has autism. His memoir tells his story of growing up as a person with autism. He shares many hilarious and embarrassing stories about how his condition affected his childhood. McCreary shares his experiences in acting classes and in becoming a comedian as well as his interactions with famous people including Adam Savage and Temple Grandin. His book also includes several in between sections that describe how certain situations appear for those with autism and how people should act towards those who have autism. This is a great book for anyone who is interested in seeing what life can be like for someone who has autism.

[Line · Rating 4 out of 5]

I cannot decide on a star rating right now because on the one hand it was a read that didn't like...touch me a lot but then again the ending made me almost tear up. Also like...part one didn't really get me but part two and three were really good? And I liked the humor and it was a good way to start Autism Awareness/Acceptance Month. So I guess four stars it is?

[Chloe Liese · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I was taught how to ‘act normal.’ I learned to hold the door for people. I learned to tell the truth, but to understand when it was okay to lie for politeness. I learned to use my manners, not to swear, to respect personal space, and to stop talking when it was time for somebody else to have a turn.

And then I got to school. And I discovered that no one else had learned these things.”

I've never read a memoir/nonfiction that so deeply resonated with what it's like to be an autistic young adult. To learn so well how to hide your weirdness and confusion, only to become mired in the rigid, unadaptable framework of "normal" that no autistic can authentically or safely occupy. Your blessing of being able to hide becomes your isolating curse. As a young person, I was the one always trying to help, to smile, to get it right, to be a good friend, to be dependable and honest; but no one truly operates that way, and it ultimately led to deep disillusionment, distrust, and pain. This is the story of many adult autistics (often females seeing as they're not given diagnosis as girls because they're taught so well to present as "good girls" who exhibit "normal" behavior) who only reach diagnosis after experiencing burn-out.

While I was not diagnosed until adulthood, this book gave me the gift of looking back on childhood and young adulthood with humor, healing, and lots of bittersweet recollection. This book also gave me something many/most autistics love: closure, finality, a sense of order made and the curtain closed.

While I found the first two thirds most relatable (the last third being heavily focused on his journey toward his comedian work), I truly appreciated his ongoing challenges of being a very literal-minded, altruistic person in a world that doesn't operate literally and often abuses such rose-colored generosity many autistics have for others. I've been used and hurt much how Michael was as a young person. Like him, I went through my angry phase where I was hellbent on righting the wrongs done to me. And now, like Michael, I have learned that forgiveness and moving on is what truly heals both the abuser and the abused. I have accepted that I will not "prove" autism to anyone, and it is not my responsibility to convince them. I won't let anyone define autism for me, either, and if my voice can even in a small way shift the collective attitude towards positivity and openness toward autism, then what I went through will have been worth it.

The world needs more books like this, that illuminate the true spectrum nature of autism. I think a wonderful and important inclusion in his story is his nonverbal autistic brother, Matty. Matty teaches Michael lessons that all of us--neurotypical and not--continue to need to learn: we grow and deepen our wisdom and empathy when we see each other as equally valuable, worthy, lovable humans; when we turn toward each other and genuinely try to share space and commonality and understanding. When we make that effort, we realize something--understanding and embracing each other even through deep difference is not nearly as complex as we think it's going to be. In fact, it proves to be the greatest of gifts.

[Moonkiszt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun read/listen. . . .the author narrating. Short and a good education for me. I've spent a good portion of my life with my focus on my focus, tuning out anything that hasn't been my focus. I am learning as my body ages and turns into a poor version of all those warrior grandmas I loved, that limited focus (aka My Way) is a luxury. So with this broadened horizon I've been dragged to. . .here we go! Learning new stuff. Better late than never, and yep, I'm sorry kids. You did a great job raising yourselves in spite of my wings. . .

This is a good book for newbies to the subject. . .i'm sure those with deeper delves in their own experience and studies might find it the shallow end of the pool, but that is just right as one begins to realize how they might have missed so much so far, and have insulted, or just plain been dismissed by someone who could have used support. So, a gentle shake by the collar to reset the path is a good way to start.

5 stars for the collar shake. I will delve deeper and tread more lightly, more bravely going forward.

[Rissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Funny you dont look autistic ⭐️
I love to laugh hence Im a big fan of comedy. This not only made me laugh but i feel like i learned a lot about autism and some of the added struggles they can have because human beings are awful.
I also liked that it was short but had alot packed into it.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

An engaging memoir from a young aspie comedian. Lots of LOLs.

[Izza · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars | Listened to this audiobook while playing Animal Crossing. Some parts were funny, some a little more serious, but overall, for me, it was just an okay read.

Disclaimer: I had no idea who Michael McCreary was before I picked this up. Maybe I would've enjoyed it more if I had...

[Maggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining and amusing. Funny, but not hilariously wet-my-pants funny. I probably learned a few things too.

[Cookie M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would have given this audio book five stars, but I found Michael McCreary's voice annoying. I am allowed to say that. I have ASD. Certain vocal timbres grate on my nerves more than they might a Neurotypical person's. But I persevered. Perseverance is another thing autistic people are good at. I am glad I did.

McCreary's story is inspiring. He is a stand up comedian, and has wanted to be one since he was a small child. This goes in the same category as David Tennant deciding at age three he wanted to be Doctor Who when he grew up!

What warmed my heart about this book is McCreary talking about the bullying and the unique response autistic kids can have to it, and the sad lasting effects it can have on them. I went through this. 5th grade was a particularly horrendous experience for me. My parents were gobsmacked at how I appeared to repeatedly throw myself back into the same situation again and again, always getting hurt, because, "these girls are my friends!"

I got the courage, after listening to this book to tell a family member who was teasing me yesterday to stop it, that it made me feel small and alone and I wouldn't laugh along with it anymore. They apologized. They had been doing it since we were kids, and just thought it was funny. An older family member had set the pattern. I was an east target. They all thought I was ok with it because I laughed with them... all. my. life. No more.
Thanks, Michael.