Freaks, Geeks, and Asperger Syndrome
A User Guide to Adolescence
by Luke Jackson When he wrote this book, Luke Jackson was a thirteen year old Australian with Asperger Syndrome. He writes that he wrote this book because he was looking for an instruction manual for adolescence and couldn't find one, but in that respect I would say that this book is a failure. This is not a guide to adolescence; it is Luke's account of his own adolescence and childhood, with lots of information about how autistic traits affect his family. This book is illustrated with drawings by his sisters Sarah, Rachel, and Anna, one picture by his brother Joseph, and photographs. The tone is mostly that of a thirteen year-old conversationalist, with plenty of humor and Australian slang. Throughout the book, Luke tries to use as many common sayings as possible, and lists them in the back with their meanings. I could have used a listing for the meanings of Australian slang. As an autobiography or an explanation of life with Asperger Syndrome, this account is honest and light; not dull.
Pleasant reading
