Uniquely Human

Essential reading for parents, teachers, therapists and anyone who cares for people on the autism spectrum.

Winner of the Autism Society of America's Dr. Temple Grandin Award

Autism is a different way of being human: it offers possibilities and opportunities, not disabilities. By understanding autistic behaviours as responses based on an individual's experiences and as strategies to cope with a chaotic world, Barry Prizant seeks to enhance a child's abilities, to teach new skills, help individuals build on their strengths and develop coping strategies that could aid the fulfilment of every child's promise.

Uniquely Human debunks many of the false and outdated stereotypes that surround autism. It is a first step towards a greater understanding of people with autism and an essential part of their successful participation in and contribution to society.

With a wealth of inspiring stories and practical advice from thousands of children and older people with autism and their families, Uniquely Human conveys a deep respect for the qualities in people on the autism spectrum that make them special. It offers a compassionate and insightful perspective that could be life-changing as well as uplifting.

About the Authors

Barry M. Prizant, PhD, CCC-SLP, is among the world's leading authorities on autism, with more than forty years of experience as a scholar, researcher, and international consultant. He is an adjunct professor at Brown University and coauthor of The SCERTS Model: A Comprehensive Educational Approach, now being implemented in more than a dozen countries. Dr. Prizant has published more than 120 articles and chapters and has received many awards for his career in supporting autistic persons and related disabilities and their families. Dr. Prizant lives in Cranston, Rhode Island, with his wife, Dr. Elaine Meyer.

Tom Fields-Meyer is the author of Following Ezra, an account of what he has learned from his autistic son. He teaches at the Extension Writers' Program of UCLA.