Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism

Winner of the Autism Society of America’s Dr. Temple Grandin Award for the Outstanding Literary Work in Autism

A groundbreaking book on autism, by one of the world’s leading experts, who portrays autism as a unique way of being human—this is “required reading....Breathtakingly simple and profoundly positive” (Chicago Tribune).

Autism therapy typically focuses on ridding individuals of “autistic” symptoms such as difficulties interacting socially, problems in communicating, sensory challenges, and repetitive behavior patterns. Now Dr. Barry M. Prizant offers a new and compelling paradigm: the most successful approaches to autism don’t aim at fixing a person by eliminating symptoms, but rather seeking to understand the individual’s experience and what underlies the behavior.

“A must-read for anyone touched by autism... Dr. Prizant’s Uniquely Human is a crucial step in promoting better understanding and a more humane approach” (Associated Press). Instead of classifying “autistic” behaviors as signs of pathology, Dr. Prizant sees them as part of a range of strategies to cope with a world that feels chaotic and overwhelming. Rather than curb these behaviors, it’s better to enhance abilities, build on strengths, and offer supports that will lead to more desirable behavior and a better quality of life.

“A remarkable approach to autism....A truly impactful, necessary book” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review), Uniquely Human offers inspiration and practical advice drawn from Dr. Prizant’s four-decade career. It conveys a deep respect for people with autism and their own unique qualities. Filled with humanity and wisdom, Uniquely Human“should reassure parents and caregivers of kids with autism and any other disability that their kids are not broken, but, indeed, special” (Booklist, starred review).

• Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew: Updated and Expanded Edition
• A Parent's Guide to High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, Second Edition: How to Meet the Challenges and Help Your Child Thrive
• The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy with Autism
• Positive Parenting for Autism: Powerful Strategies to Help Your Child Overcome Challenges and Thrive
• An Early Start for Your Child with Autism: Using Everyday Activities to Help Kids Connect, Communicate, and Learn
• Neurotribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity
• Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders: Evidence-Based Intervention Strategies for Communication and Social Interactions (CLI)
• Nathan's Autism Spectrum Superpowers (One Three Nine Inspired)
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Models and Applications for Educators, Speech-language Pathologists, Psychologists, Caregivers, and Users
• Articulation and Phonological Disorders: Speech Sound Disorders in Children (8th Edition)