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906 reviews for:
NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and How to Think Smarter About People Who Think Differently
Steve Silberman
4.23 AVERAGE
906 reviews for:
NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and How to Think Smarter About People Who Think Differently
Steve Silberman
4.23 AVERAGE
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
This book meant so, so much to me.
informative
medium-paced
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
I really wanted to like this book because it is well renowned in this area of research, however I could not get past the focus on the history of Autism Spectrum Disorders (especially in Germany), and found the historical discussions/descriptions of Eugenics and small-minded scientists whose beliefs have shaped medical opinion for centuries. Instead of celebrating neurodiversity, 30% through this title this book was just a not so subtle reminder of the lack of value placed on those that are "different."
EDIT: I found out today (3/27/23) that the author Steve Silberman is not himself autistic, which makes his approach to this book make more sense. It also makes me want to read it less. I would rather spend time understanding autism through the lens of those who are actually on the spectrum (even if they are self-diagnosed).
EDIT: I found out today (3/27/23) that the author Steve Silberman is not himself autistic, which makes his approach to this book make more sense. It also makes me want to read it less. I would rather spend time understanding autism through the lens of those who are actually on the spectrum (even if they are self-diagnosed).
It took me a year and a half to read this book because every time I read a chapter it would hit too hard and I'd have to put it down for a month. Others have critiqued the amount of extraneous detail he packs into his descriptions of historical figures and events, but honestly I appreciated it because it gave some breathing room to what would otherwise have been just one long gut punch to autistic adults (but in a good way).
This is a clear and comprehensive documentation on the complex history of autism and I learned a lot even as someone who has specialist training in the topic. It contextualizes the neurodiversity movement beautifully, while also helping autistic adults like me have a little empathy for some (not all) of the actions of people in the past who did not have the benefit of the information and insight we do today. And it makes me feel very, very seen. I don't have the words to explain deeper than that, but it was an experience. Excellent book.
This is a clear and comprehensive documentation on the complex history of autism and I learned a lot even as someone who has specialist training in the topic. It contextualizes the neurodiversity movement beautifully, while also helping autistic adults like me have a little empathy for some (not all) of the actions of people in the past who did not have the benefit of the information and insight we do today. And it makes me feel very, very seen. I don't have the words to explain deeper than that, but it was an experience. Excellent book.
For anyone who has a personal connection or interest in autism, find themselves invested in some way (and really, we all should), this book is for you. I was riveted by the in depth historical information and how the author ties all the real characters together. He brought it home at the end, truly a celebration of neurodiversity and inspirational for parents. Neurotribes is a great starting point for professionals who are dedicated to align themselves with the autistic community and push forward for inclusivity, understanding by listening to autistic voices and including them in therapeutic and political platforms. The only thing I think this book is missing are the array of different therapeutic approaches that have been beneficial; I would have especially loved more on this from ND voices. That said, he made the case against ABA loud and clear. (say it louder for the people in the back)!! One for the collection. Thanks for making me feel proud of and excited about autism.
Particularly interesting was the dark past of psychological disorders and the hopeful future of diagnosis and treatment. The individual stories of the families and people most directly impacted were compelling and moving.
Incredibly enlightening book. Definitely recommend to anyone who works in the sciences, the tech industry, and who have children.
Is it just me, or did anyone else find it it a brilliant approach to use green, yellow, and red name badge tags to signal people that they'd like to be approached, that they'd only like to be approached by people they already know, and that they'd prefer not to be approached at all, respectively. I think this tactic would help alleviate some of the social anxiety that I'm constantly trying to hide at conferences. It's also a prime example of how having people of diverse backgrounds can help shine a light on, and find solutions for problems.
Incredibly enlightening book. Definitely recommend to anyone who works in the sciences, the tech industry, and who have children.
Is it just me, or did anyone else find it it a brilliant approach to use green, yellow, and red name badge tags to signal people that they'd like to be approached, that they'd only like to be approached by people they already know, and that they'd prefer not to be approached at all, respectively. I think this tactic would help alleviate some of the social anxiety that I'm constantly trying to hide at conferences. It's also a prime example of how having people of diverse backgrounds can help shine a light on, and find solutions for problems.
hopeful
informative
medium-paced
Informative, far-reaching, and accessibly written. It’s comprehensive nature does makes it also long winded.
The history of autism is full of missteps, misinformation, and hope. With 1 in 68 school-aged children in America on the autism spectrum understanding all of the aspects of this condition is vital to providing the services and resources to a growing number of families. While much of the focus has been on finding a cure for autism the author feels that ignores the large population of individuals living with autism. Some within the community advocate that the neurodiversity of autism is a benefit for tackling certain problems. A well researched read for those not familiar with the history of autism.