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Succeeding with Autism
Judith H Cohen, £3.95
ISBN: 1843107937

STAR RATING 3/5:

Judith Cohen first met Michael when she interviewed him for a teacher education programme. This book provides an honest portrayal of Michael and an insight into how he developed from a young child into a truly remarkable individual battling with autism, writes Mandeep Sabejpal

Judith has given us an intimate view of Michael's life through interviews with his friends, family, and various professionals who have worked with him. What interested me in particular was how Michael viewed his autism, and how he addressed particular events in his life compared to how others around him did.

The relationship between Michael and his mother is particularly interesting, as well as his relationships with his doctors, friends and colleagues. But what is clear is that, in general, Michael has left a positive impression on everyone he has met despite his difficulties and has, in some cases, built life-long friendships.

This book may be particularly beneficial to individuals who would like to learn more about autism from the perspective of the child as they try to break the stereotypes that we don't realise we all have until reading this book.

Mandeep Sahejpal is a support worker with Solihull social services