Look Me In the Eye: my life with Asperger’s Syndrome

John Elder Robison (author)

Bantam Publishing, Australia: 2007; 288pp

ISBN: 9781863255998

Genre: autobiography

Issues: gifted, identity, special needs, tolerance

Born in a time when Asperger’s, or ‘high-functioning Autism’ was unrecognised, John Elder Robison was simply perceived by those around him as ‘weird’.

The particularly astonishing thing about this autobiography is the apparent clarity with which the author recalls incidents from childhood. For the non-Asperger’s person, it gives valuable insight into the almost computer-type logic that runs the ‘Aspergian’ world, as well as the enormous confusion and communication problems they encounter as a result of that thinking.

As is so often the case with Asperger’s sufferers, John Elder demonstrates high intelligence frustrated by the learning difficulties imposed by the conflict between his perception of the world and how it should function and the less logical reality. He shows the reader that Aspergians experience great depth of emotion, more often related to themselves than others, and explains the thinking behind the problems that he and others on the Autistic spectrum have empathising with or even recognising emotional responses in others.

Aside from a remarkably adventurous and unusual life, including such achievements as designing and making stunt guitars for the rock band, KISS, John Elder’s writing is amazing for the phenomenal insight he has into his own condition. That capacity to articulate his experiences, to explain the ‘why’ behind his actions and reactions to a variety of circumstances, people and events over the years, makes this a ‘must read’.

The bonus is that John Elder Robison imbues his writing with humour. At the same time as he is helping the reader understand Aspergian thinking, especially the tremendous anxiety that is a significant factor in the condition, he pokes gentle fun at both himself and others. Very readable, this is an enlightening book, a remarkable window into a completely different perception of the world, social ‘norms’ and human relationships.

A fascinating read.