Book Reviews

Beyond the Wall: Personal Experiences with Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Expanded Second Edition by Stephen M. Shore, Foreword by Temple Grandin (March/April 03)

This expanded second edition, which features a foreword by Dr. Temple Grandin, includes an important new chapter on getting ready for college. In addition, the discussion on common sensory reactions has been expanded. Finally, there's a new chapter on Shore's recent public involvement with autism spectrum-related issues, including testifying on the state of autism-related issues to the chair of Governmental Reform, speaking at conferences, both in the United States and internationally, and advocating for services for individuals on the spectrum.

What Parents and Professionals Are Saying

"A surprisingly warm journey into the psyche of an 'Aspie.' The reader is led on a wonderful excursion showing how personal courage and persistence mixed with an encouraging and unyielding family has allowed Stephen Shore to successfully deal with significant brain differences that are called Asperger Syndrome. His openness is refreshing and his use of music to contact and relate to himself and other 'Aspies' is remarkable. This is an invaluable guide and statement of hope for 'Aspies' and people who love them."
John Ratey, M.D., associate clinical professor of psychiatry, Harvard Medical School

"This book is an important welcome addition to the literature on Asperger Syndrome. Stephen Shore understands AS from the inside, and has taken on the valuable role of guide to the outsider. A patient teacher, he opens doors for the traveler that otherwise remain closed. His book, and the life it describes, will go a long way to raising awareness of AS, highlighting the special strengths that AS confers, whilst not minimizing the difficulties. It also contains a wealth of information on how to manage AS."
Simon Baron-Cohen, professor of developmental psychopathology, Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge

Sneak Preview

Excerpt taken from Appendix B: Getting Ready for College

Going away to college poses multiple challenges for every student, not just those with AS. For example, most college students are expected to:

• work more independently and take on more sophisticated, in-depth, or complex intellectual challenges.
• learn the rules of a new social environment. For example, a college freshman will face the challenges of meeting a lot of new people, making new friends, and participating in new social activities.
• live more independently and rely less on their parents for practical help with things like laundry, meals, and personal finances.
• begin thinking about a career and making plans for life after graduation.

It is important to plan ahead to ensure that a person with Asperger Syndrome has the best chance of meeting the major challenges listed above and therefore benefit from and enjoy the college years. Among the many issues students and their families need to think about, we will look more closely at the following four:

1. Pick a college that is a good match, both academically and socially
2. Submit proof to the College Disabilities Office of one's AS in order to obtain helpful supports and accommodations.
3. Establish a support network of people on and off campus who can help in key areas such as academics, living arrangements, and social issues.
4. Start early with career exploration and planning

About the Author

Diagnosed with "atypical development with strong autistic tendencies" and nonverbal until age four, STEPHEN SHORE was viewed as "too sick" to be treated on an outpatient basis. Stephen Shore is now completing his doctoral degree in special education at Boston University with a focus on helping people on the autism spectrum develop their capacities to the fullest extent possible. He presents and consults internationally.