The Stolen Child: Aspects of Autism and Asperger Syndrome

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Personal stories and professional research findings make this highly readable book a ready summary of the current knowledge surrounding autism. Recent coverage in popular media has increased awareness and understanding of this condition, creating the need for access to current scientific research and reports of common experiences with it. Directed toward parents and professionals, this book explains what research has revealed and supports it with personal accounts written by people with autism and the parents of autistic children. The focus of the book encompasses the wide spectrum of characteristics and ability levels that exist within autism and their implications for individuals as children, older adolescents, and adults. From the first diagnosis of autism by Leo Kanner in 1943 to the most recent research by neurologists Isabelle Rapin and Robert Katzman, the study of autism has shed increasing light on the mysteries of this disorder. This book summarizes research findings as it explores the dilemmas faced by parents and individuals with autism in their search for early diagnosis, professional help, and suitable services. Chapters include discussions of co-existing conditions, causes of autism, and its relationship to Asperger Syndrome. Appendices include a glossary of related terms and an international directory of support organizations and publications.

Reviews

Upper-division undergraduates through faculty and professionals. * Choice *
A strong introductory text that includes personal narratives, historical information, summaries of different treatment programs, and excellent resources for people to move forward. A big plus: Hewetson, the mother of a son with high-ability autism, carefully balances the different approaches and does not promote one treatment over another as the cure for all people with ASD. * Library Journal *
Ann Hewetson is a very rare individual. A meticulous researcher, she has done her homework extensively in this fact-filled book.Seldom does one read a book crammed with information that is eminently READABLE. * The Maap *
Amidst the plethora of books on the subject in recent years, this one stands strong. [Hewetson] writes for professionals in the many arenas where autistic children are present, as well as for parents who must strive for the deepest understanding in order to help their children. * SciTech Book News *

Author Bio

ANN HEWETSON is both a professional and a parent of a son with high-ability autism. In her professional capacity she has worked as a research scientist with the National University of Ireland and later as Head of Science in a large public school. She was instrumental in founding the Asperger Syndrome Association of Ireland.