Freaks, Geeks And Asperger Syndrome : A User Guide To Adolescence by Luke Jackson

Part of the Reading Well scheme, this book is one of the 27 carefully selected titles aimed at providing young people between the ages of 13 and 18 with high-quality support, information, and advice about common mental health issues and related conditions. In fact, it even won the prestigious NASEN & TES Special Educational Needs Children’s Book Award in 2003.

In this book, Luke Jackson, a 13-year-old with Asperger Syndrome, shares his own experiences and knowledge to shed light on the challenges faced by adolescents with the condition. While Luke has learned to brush off derogatory comments like “freak” or “geek,” he acknowledges that other aspects of life can be more challenging.

As teenagers navigate the tumultuous waters of adolescence, dealing with emotions, transitions, and decisions, those with Asperger Syndrome often face explosive situations. Luke, with three adolescent siblings of his own, realizes how different he is and how little information is available specifically for adolescents like himself.

The book covers various sensitive topics, including bullying, friendships, disclosing AS to others, school problems, dating and relationships, and morality. Drawing from his own experiences and insights gained from his siblings, Luke offers enlightening, honest, and witty perspectives on these subjects.

While providing amusing anecdotes about his younger autistic and AD/HD brothers, Luke also offers advice for parents, carers, and teachers dealing with younger children with AS. However, his primary motivation for writing the book was his realization that many books are written about people like him, but none directly to adolescents with Asperger Syndrome. He aims to create a learning experience where everyone can grow together.

“Book Review: Luke Jackson’s Guide to Adolescence for Teens with Asperger Syndrome”

Hi, my name is Barbara Lester and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in working with children and adolescents on the autism spectrum. Welcome to my blog where I share tips on autism spectrum treatment. Today, I will be reviewing a book called “Freaks, Geeks, and Asperger Syndrome: A User Guide to Adolescence” written by Luke Jackson, an Australian author.

“Freaks, Geeks, and Asperger Syndrome” was published in 2002 when Luke Jackson was an adolescent himself. It is a valuable resource not only for teenagers on the autism spectrum but also for parents who want to gain insight into the minds of their adolescent children.

This book covers a wide range of topics such as disclosing the diagnosis, navigating teenage conversations, dealing with school-related challenges, handling bullying, managing friendships, and even exploring the complexities of dating. Luke has a unique way of describing these issues, and it’s worth noting that he uses Australian terminology, which adds an interesting perspective for readers.

One of the book’s standout features is the importance Luke places on sharing the diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome. He argues that keeping it a secret may lead others to label individuals negatively, such as calling them “freaks” or “geeks”. However, by disclosing the diagnosis, people are more likely to understand, empathize, and offer support rather than reject or misunderstand.

“Freaks, Geeks, and Asperger Syndrome” is a remarkable resource that offers valuable insights and advice for individuals on the autism spectrum, as well as their families and friends. If you would like to learn more about autism spectrum issues, consider subscribing to my blog for future updates. If you have any questions or topics you would like me to address in my upcoming posts, please leave a comment, and I will make sure to respond.