Valerie L. Gaus: Living Well on the Spectrum: How to Use Your Strengths to Meet the Challenges of Asperger Syndrome/High Functioning Autism

If I was asked to define “Living Well on the Spectrum” in one word, the first one that comes to mind is: Pragmatic. The book is one that directly addressed the needs of individuals on the Autism Spectrum. It is heavily based on Dr. Gaus experience with individuals on the spectrum. Unlike some other books and material available, this book specifically address and opens up a dialogue on the issue of quality of life and the difference between being alive and living. I believe that some of us Neurotypical forget at times that there is and should be a difference between the two. With a direct focus on the individual, this book zooms in on personal strengths and uses positive psychology to address some of the challenges individuals on the spectrum may experiences. Throughout the book, Dr. Gaus uses strategies to assist individuals in all aspects of life. The clever separation within the book allows the differentiation between areas of struggles and problem solving approach. While many books focus on deficits and challenges or even the symptoms of ASD, this book is focusing on the differences between one person on the spectrum and others. I appreciate the systematic and consistent structure of each chapter which assist in creating a “familiar environment” and a routine that can assist individuals on the spectrum while navigating through the book. The book offers ample and extensive amount of information which made me at time overwhelmed. The incorporation of multiple examples of others on the spectrum truly normalized the spectrum and assist in creating a community. …