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By  Martine Ives and Nell Munro.
Jessica Kingsley Publishing
ISBN 1 85302 996 3
£12.95

This handbook is a practical guide for the parents of children with autistic spectrum disorders. The authors, who have worked on the National Autistic Society helpline for many years, are clearly familiar with the concerns of parents.

The first half of the book provides background information on autism, including chapters on its causes, the history of autistic spectrum disorders, an overview of diagnosis, the impact of the condition on siblings and on finding sources of help.

In the second half the authors provide guidance on how to choose a suitable school, educational assessment, management of social problems and responding to autistic behaviour. The final chapter critically evaluates the range of therapies. Suggestions about useful contacts are interspersed throughout the text.

The book ends with an excellent list of up-to-date references.

There is much controversy about the diagnosis and treatment of autistic children so social workers will find this handbook an excellent source of well-balanced information and opinion.

The handbook is published with the approval of the National Autistic Society and will no doubt become the standard reference manual for parents.

Oliver Russell is a consultant psychiatrist.