Please note this review is made by a person who has mental illness, but has not been tested for Autism. I have characteristics that can be seen in someone with ASD. I cannot say for sure whether or not these characteristics are ASD. I try not to come off as someone who has the disorder.

My purpose for taking up this book (and others like it) was to learn more about the folks in my life who have been diagnosed with ASD. I didn't want to subject my loved ones to verbal investigations and conversations that would make them uncomfortable. I wanted to know what to do to make them feel safe to be themselves in my presence, and what not to do. I wanted to learn how to be there for them, how to treat them as equals, and how to be an ally. Also, I wanted to hear more about people who I share characteristics with. I don't truly identify with the "Idiots" here, but I feel personally rewarded just reading about people who are out there in the world living with similar traits as I possess. Not inspired, but just a little more encouraged. A little less alone.

Anyway.......

I had the wrong notion that it was going to be more of a "documentary" about the students Nazeer attended school with. It was actually more about his experience getting to know the people from his past again - his thoughts, observations, impressions, deductions, etc. I was a little disappointed that I didn't get what I had wanted, but that doesn't mean I didn't care for this book. I came to appreciate Mr. Nazeer's almost constant presence and what he chose to contribute to the stories.

I saw other reviewers were not thrilled about the politics included in the book. I'm a Democrat, so I was okay with the beliefs shared in here. However, it felt like it wasn't necessary to the extent it was included. Some of the explanations were long-winded and had detailing that was drawn out to the point of boring overextension (the speechwriting sections stand out here). You're going to get a bit of an education on some different things in this book. It's not necessarily a bad thing. If you don't find yourself enjoying these bits, you can scroll through a bit and not miss anything too important.

There was a lack of humor in the book that I noticed. I was sad that the lighthearted bits in the book weren't really styled to be chuckled or smiled along with. It would've helped with the human connection more. In my opinion, the people in this book lose dimension because of this lack of intensity.

I appreciated all of the studies cited and woven in among the stories. They were presented in a way that left me interested in learning more. A couple of times while reading, I stopped to Google researchers, theories, and terminology to better acquaint myself with them. These sections of the book bordered on textbook-y, but had enough of Mr. Nazeer's voice to keep them from going over the line.

I had been exploring the viewpoint that many Autistic people have - that they are not broken and in need of fixing. That they are not special or gifted because of their diagnosis and their differing traits. He explained the reasoning for this argument and the facts that support it. I think that was touched upon well in here. He also explored the opposing viewpoint, giving it the same treatment. Thumbs up for that. I don't know why this debate isn't more of a talking point, but Mr. Nazeer probably does.

I also appreciated how he really made a point of explaining, through cited research, that it is believed by experts that ASD is a developmental disorder produced by genetics, and not by any parental shortcomings, environmental influences, or chemically-induced neurological alteration. That message needs to be shouted from rooftops by influential people loudly and as often as possible! He touched on the complicated psychology of ASD parenting a bit, and that needs more exposure as well.

All in all, I am a better person for having read this book, even though I was not enthralled through most of it. I would suggest it to some, and not to others.

I normally don't have a penchant for individual stories of someone's life with autism. However, upon reading this book, I had an epiphany. I realized that despite the fact that autism can vary significantly in all aspects from one individual to another, it is of utmost importance to read about it.

Even if it doesn't affect my daughter in the same manner. The author delved into what some individuals with autism struggle with, such as fluency, conversation skills, local coherence (a term that was entirely new to me), and sensitivity to touch, among others. I was almost inclined to give the book 4 stars.

I believe that the book could have been structured differently to enhance its趣味性. There were certain parts that seemed to drag for me. Nevertheless, I think that there is a wealth of knowledge to be gleaned from this book. It provides valuable insights into the challenges and experiences of those living with autism, which can help us better understand and empathize with them.

This is a good novel if one wants to deeply understand the difficulties and challenges that children with autism spectrum disorders face.

The novel is structured in five chapters. In these chapters, we can observe those who have triumphed and those who have been left behind. It also presents the challenge of educating these children and the difficulties that their families endure.

Autism spectrum disorders can have a significant impact on a child's life and the lives of those around them. This novel provides a fictional but realistic portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of these children and their families.

By reading this novel, readers can gain a better understanding of the complex issues surrounding autism spectrum disorders and develop more empathy and compassion for those who are affected by them.

Overall, this is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that offers valuable insights into the world of autism spectrum disorders.

At first, I was rather passive regarding my feelings towards this book.

There were certain moments when I felt a bit weighed down. However, what an interesting concept it presents!

The successful adult with autism, who is also an author, revisits his former classmates and teachers in a kind of "where are they now" exploration of adults living with autism.

Listening to this diverse range of stories has made me think about a great many things that I'm finding difficult to put into words as I type this.

I happened to hear the author being interviewed on NPR. If it weren't for that, I'm not certain I would have ever discovered this book that I believe has been significant for me.

TGILNPR (Thank God I Listen to NPR *wink*). This experience has truly opened my eyes and made me more aware of the lives and challenges of those with autism. It has given me a new perspective and a deeper understanding. I'm glad I came across this book and the interview on NPR.

It has made me realize the importance of listening and learning from different voices and experiences.

I look forward to sharing what I've learned with others and continuing to explore this fascinating topic.

Overall, this has been a valuable and eye-opening experience for me.

The premise of this work is indeed interesting.

It offers an honest and detailed depiction of the characters, which is quite remarkable.

However, it cannot be said that it is the most thrilling or compelling read of all time.

Nevertheless, some of the stories within it do have a certain charm that makes them linger in your mind.

What's more, Nazeer's attitude of "You just have to see it from the right perspective and it makes good sense" is truly praiseworthy.

It neither patronizes those who are neurotypical nor those who are autistic.

This balanced and understanding approach adds an extra layer of depth to the overall narrative.

Overall, while it may not be a page-turner in the traditional sense, it still has its own merits and is worth exploring for those interested in a unique take on characters and perspectives.

My Review:

It is truly wonderful to hear from an individual with autism. All too often, it is doctors, professionals, researchers, and parents who write books about their clients and children. While they do possess important and valuable insights, their descriptions of the actual realities faced by autistic individuals are shockingly lacking.

Mr. Nazeer raised an extremely insightful point regarding the nature of labels. Autism does not predispose an individual to any particular outcome. Genius, idiocy, or mediocrity - these are all qualities that accompany a person, not their specific label. Far too often, people make assumptions and pass judgments based solely on these labels. However, when it comes to individual uniqueness and the subjective realities within each of our worlds, labels mean absolutely nothing.

Eloquent and beautifully real, Mr. Nazeer not only depicts the autistic world but also the world of individuality itself. His words offer a fresh and much-needed perspective, allowing us to see beyond the labels and into the true essence of each person. It is a remarkable achievement that should be celebrated and shared widely.

CW: Suicide

A remarkable book has been penned by an autistic adult. His journey began with the determination to locate the other autistic children who shared his special needs classroom during his school days. This book delves deep into their lives, chronicling their past deeds and future aspirations. Alongside the accounts of his former classmates, snippets of Nazeer's own life are interwoven.

The book presents viewpoints that are unexpected and can be rather divisive. Indeed, the final chapter and epilogue hold some controversial discussions. However, the chapters dedicated to the four classmates Nazeer wrote about are fascinating and offer comprehensive portraits of very different individuals and their unique ways of life. Nazeer's writing style is highly engaging, making it effortless for the reader to be drawn in and keep turning the pages.

A truly funny book has crossed my path recently.

It vividly recounts the experiences of a young man who embarks on a journey to find and reconnect with his former classmates from a childhood autism class.

It is truly fascinating to observe where each of them has ended up in life and what unique personalities they have developed.

The author writes with such real insight and compassion for this diverse group of individuals.

It is evident that he has a deep understanding and respect for their differences.

His ability to bring their stories to life on the pages makes this book a truly engaging read.

I found myself completely immersed in the narrative, laughing at the humorous moments and being touched by the more poignant ones.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a heartwarming and entertaining story.

It offers a unique perspective on friendship, acceptance, and the power of reconnecting with those from our past.

Fascinating read.

Working with autistic children, I often find myself wondering what they will do as adults once they step out of the bubble we have created for them in school. It's a thought that constantly lingers in my mind.

This article is a truly thoughtful exploration of the lives of 4 people who happen to be autistic. They are connected by their attendance at a “special” school, yet they were too young to remember much about it.

It delves into their individual experiences, challenges, and achievements, providing a unique perspective on the lives of those with autism. Through their stories, we gain a better understanding of the potential and capabilities that autistic individuals possess, as well as the obstacles they may face in the outside world.

It's a reminder that autism is a spectrum, and each person has their own unique strengths and weaknesses. It also highlights the importance of providing support and opportunities for autistic individuals to thrive and reach their full potential as they transition into adulthood.

Great Insights

I truly liked the fact that this author, being autistic himself, was capable of reflecting upon his upbringing. He not only analyzed how schooling had an impact on him but also on his classmates. It is important to note that each individual on the autism spectrum remains unique. Despite sharing certain characteristics, they all have their own distinct personalities, strengths, and weaknesses. This author's ability to look back and understand the effects of his educational experiences is truly remarkable. It provides valuable insights into the world of autism and how different people cope with it. By sharing his story, he is helping to raise awareness and understanding about this often misunderstood condition.

A very interesting opportunity to peek into the lives of people living with autism has been presented.

There were an abundance of coping mechanisms, which were truly remarkable.

Moreover, the interesting jobs that these individuals held and their various personal relationships added another layer of complexity and intrigue.

Through this experience, I have come to realize that there are no boundaries to what an individual can do, regardless of their condition.

It is truly inspiring to see how people with autism can overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives.

We should all strive to be more understanding and inclusive of those with different abilities.

This opportunity has opened my eyes and made me more aware of the unique qualities and potential that each person possesses.

It is a reminder that we should never judge a book by its cover and always look beyond the surface to see the true essence of a person.

Overall, it has been a fascinating and eye-opening experience that I will not soon forget.

Nazeer visited a school that caters to children diagnosed with autism or other “special” needs. As an adult, he decided to go back and reconnect with his former classmates to discover what they had been up to since their school days together.

What he found was that his classmates were leading diverse lives with varying levels of functioning. One of them had become a speech writer, while another had a rather strange incident where he locked Nazeer in a bathroom after a disagreement with a puppet named Ben Gurion. Fortunately, Nazeer was eventually set free by his friend’s sister, who had been waiting for them at a bar. She went home a couple of hours later and found Nazeer trapped.

Nazeer appears to be delving into the different types of people we are and how we navigate the world despite our differences. Some of us have an easier path than others, sometimes there are clear reasons for this, but at other times, there are more nuanced factors at play. Nazeer also interviews the father of a classmate who had taken her own life. The father essentially poses the question to Nazeer as to why he managed to get better.

This exploration by Nazeer not only gives us a peek into the lives of his classmates but also makes us reflect on the complex nature of human existence and the challenges and opportunities that come with our individual differences.