Asperger's On the Inside - Amazon Reviews
Amazon US, Amazon UK, Amazon AU & Amazon CAFTC: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation for this review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Asperger’s on the Inside by Michelle Vines was an interesting book to read. When I saw one of the places I review books for was offering this book, I knew I had to get it and fit it into my schedule sooner than it would have taken me usually. I am so glad that I did because I loved everything about this book. I had to keep reading it because I wanted to know how it worked out for her and how her life turned out. I also loved that instead of just talking about her life throughout the entire book she answered questions. I am sure that it would bother some people that she jumps around but I love it because it made me understand a little bit more about how some individuals who have Autism may think. She also did an excellent job of making me understand why some people who have Autism don’t react to things right away and why that may be. I could go on for days about this book so I will leave it here. I think everyone should read this book because it was so super interesting.
Margaret TidwellOpen, honest, and relatable! Loved this book!
This book is a must read. I adore her style of writing and how open and honest she is with the audience. This book is very relatable and helps me understand my son so much more. Would recommend it to friends and family for sure!
SEKThis book is an exceptional read, I couldn’t put it down. The old adage is true, you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, but one can’t help but come away from this book without gaining an insight into life as an Aspie, and feeling a great deal of compassion and warmth for the kind and funny woman who wrote it.
What struck me most about Michelle’s wonderful book (aside from her charming writing style that grabs her reader by the hand as if they were an old friend taking a trip down memory lane) is her capacity for kindness and forgiveness. She suffers some terribly difficult experiences with women throughout the book, yet her depiction of those events and the women themselves is fair minded and presented with humility. There is no hint of vitriol, or spite, simply a bewildered mystification that other human beings could behave in such an alien manner.
Michelle’s capacity for emotional depth will likely come as a surprise to anyone with only passing familiarity with Aspies, given they are so commonly (and unfairly) tarred with the unfeeling brush. I would challenge anyone who holds such beliefs about Aspies to read Michelle’s book, and think again.
Amazon CustomerRefreshing And Captivating Look At Asperger’s
This book very beautifully balances the informative and the interpersonal. This is as much a story of a humorous, creative, thoughtful mother, wife, and friend as much as it is practical advice to those seeking to understand their beloved spectrumites. As a fellow female on the spectrum, I could relate to much on both of these fronts. Well-written and an enjoyable read. 🙂
Paula GomezIt’s like reading a conversation with a trusted friend
Reading Michelle’s book is a rare experience. It’s like reading a conversation with a trusted friend. It’s comfortable and informal. She starts off slowly, easing you in to the format of the book and her quirky sense of humour takes off right away. She tells her story, interspersed with answering questions and other topics of interest. It’s an easy read but detailed and gives a clear insight into the inner world of this Aspie. Good for non-Aspies looking for understanding and for newly discovered Aspies to better understand themselves.
Raymond LI thought it was great the way that her voice really shone in the writing. It was easy to read and seemed very honest and open about her own experiences. It was a book that took off to a slow start, however. Once I was into the book and really got going, I was able to dive in and really enjoy it. Definitely informative and has amazing voice. I feel like I could hear the author talking right to me!
Amazon CustomerA publication that I HIGHLY RECOMMEND to others!
This book is as much a story of a creative, humorous, thoughtful mother, wife, and friend, as it is practical advice to those seeking to understand their beloved spectrumites. As a female on the spectrum, I could relate to much on both of these fronts. Well written and an enjoyable read. In short, a publication that I HIGHLY RECOMMEND to others! 🙂
ACCI really liked this book – the author’s style is charming and witty, and the book vastly deepened my understanding of and empathy for the “Aspies” in my life. Insightful, interesting, and informative.
Amazon CustomerIt’s so great to have a window into the mind of a person with Asperger’s Syndrome. This book will surely help anyone who is willing to consider another perspective to understand that people on the autism spectrum have different ways of thinking from the majority and that their unique perspectives add a great deal to what drives humanity forward. I couldn’t recommend this book more highly.
J. P. MitchellHow did you get inside my head!
I’ve just finished “Asperger’s on the Inside” and all I can say is – how did Michelle get inside my head! I’ve spent the last 24 hours nodding repeatedly and shouting “yes!”.
I’m 48, married with two children, carer to my wife who has Multiple Sclerosis and I am currently in the process of, hopefully, getting an Asperger’s diagnosis (I’ve been on the waiting list for six months). This book explained so much about the last 48 years of my life. Thank you so much!
American’s don’t have kettles? Weird!
Amazon UK CustomerI love Michelle’s insight into the positives of Aspie life
I found Asperger’s on the Inside by Michelle Vines to be completely fascinating, and so honest! I think I may know some people on the spectrum, and found this book so encouraging. All we hear about Asperger’s and many other syndromes is gloom and doom, but her book changes everything! As a Christian, I believe we must celebrate our uniqueness. I love Michelle’s insight into the positives of Aspie life. I believe God is good all the time and He makes no mistakes. We all face challenges in our lives, but this book reminds me that there is good in everything. Thank you, may God bless you and I am sharing my thoughts on your book with my friend and family!
Linda P. HullettWell worth the time, especially for anyone who loves, lives with or works with neuroatypical people. Written in a strong and engaging voice. The author shares her wisdom as well as her experience.
Jodi HendersonAfter 60yrs wondering why I was “different”, this book and on – line self assessment, I Love who I am, I’m an Asperger’s women, thank you Michelle I will hold my head up high!!
Kay
The honesty in this book makes you feel like you are peeking into someone’s diary. True to the title of the book. A precious look into Aspie’s mind and soul.
Amber ChuBeautifully written and full of relatable experiences and clear insight into them. Will be of invaluable help to many like me on their road of discovery.
Amazon UK CustomerLots of new info on Asperger’s
I’m no expert, but I’m pretty sure no other book like this one exists. It shows the inner workings of someone who doesn’t fit the stereotypical image of Asperger’s, who is seen as normal while silently struggling with so much. Also gets into positive strengths which can always use more attention. Enjoyable read, heartfelt and even made me laugh a few times.
JulietI am only halfway through the book but am posting this because I want to let others know how great a read Michelle’s story is…it is heartfelt, warm, and so relateable for me. She opens up her world with each chapter set up as a question and answer (with the answer being a story). Easy to understand her points, and as I delve into each chapter I am seeing how I wish I could have had a friend like her growing up. This will not disappoint. If you suspect you may have, or have been diagnosed with Asperger’s, pick it up. I can hardly wait to finish!
CkempLoved this book. Michelle made me realize I am not alone in my oddness and that odd is not the end of the world. I have a tribe. Such a relief.
Janet KennedyWith such an engaging writing style, I found this book impossible to put down. Such a fascinating life to read about! This book challenging to the core, not least towards the underlying message of compassion. I just love it! So grateful to Michelle Vines for sharing her experiences so bravely (and humorously!) that I might glimpse something of her inside view of Aspergers. Honestly, so beautiful. Shine on!
iliI really enjoyed Michelle’s open and honest style and being taken on her journey to her eventual diagnosis & life beyond.
I think the book actually made me think about my own interactions generally especially with people who prefer quiet space etc. And really it is snook about accepting & embracing diversity in ourselves & others.
A great insight into the world of someone coping with Asperger’s, with helpful advice and information on how to try to support anyone who also has this condition.
Dot RI bought this book because I suspect I have Asperger’s Syndrome. On reading this book I found so many similarities to my own life. It’s a Brilliant Read very informative also funny in places. Would recommend this to any one wanting to learn more about what it’s like for an Aspie to cope in daily life.
For a NT this was a very helpful book to …
For a NT this was a very helpful book to understand my newly diagnosed young Aspie friend. It gives me some ideas about how to communicate with him and to help him shine as his true self. Thank you Michele for honestly taking us on your journey.
Amazon Canada CustomerIt was such a blessing reading your book. My grandson is an 18 year old Aspie and i now realize how very little i understood him or why his behaviour was as it was. It makes me sad that I didn’t read it when he was 7 (no it wasn’t written yet).
RibbarnardInteresting view from one who lives it. Helps with …
Interesting view from one who lives it. Helps with understanding this condition and with compassion for those who have it.
Understanding a person with Asperger’s Syndrome
There are lots of information on AS and almost entirely on clinical aspects of it which has limited value to anyone. This book is sincere and well-written from personal experiences that can really help other Aspies and NT, friends and relatives who seek to understand and want to be part of their lives. Even If you have no interest in AS, this book is quite an interesting read.
Danny ChinA very good explanation from childhood to complete adult journey about the …
Wow. A very good explanation from childhood to complete adult journey about the Asperger spectrum. Easy to read.
I saw a stranger on facebook randomly post about this book, and I just so happened to be feeling impulsive. Thank God! I felt like I had read everything I could on female aspergers until this book! This book gives you the EXPERIENCES rather than the textbook explanations. I had no idea how VITAL reading the experiences could be. I had a lot of trouble putting it down! So many stories Michelle told made clear so many of my confusing memories, and I felt myself completely uplifted by this book! Definitely required reading in Aspie literature!!
SaraIdeal for non-autistics to grasp a better understanding of a woman living with autism.
If you want a firsthand account of autism from an actual autistic female who was diagnosed as an adult, then this delightful book is the answer. Michelle writes in an easy-to-read, airy fashion and brings the traits of a woman with Asperger’s into a pleasant light. I read Michelle’s book after receiving a complimentary copy in preparation for an interview with the author […] I appreciate how Michelle has divided the book into short chapters by topic. I can quickly find a subject matter. This book is ideal for researchers and university students looking for autistic accounts, for Aspies out there searching for connection and commonalities, and for non-autistics to grasp a better understanding of a woman living with autism. Michelle explores multiple challenges and offers her insights, including employment issues, schooling, anxiety, and many other common autistic traits. What I appreciated most about Asperger’s on the Inside was that author’s voice; it was kind, honest, sincere, and comical at times. When reading the book, I felt like I was chatting with a dear friend over tea. (author of Everyday Aspergers)
Samantha CraftAn engaging, funny, personal story where Michelle goes on a journey to understand how her Aspie traits make up part of who she is, and how the lack of awareness made her life more difficult.
If you have Aspie people you know and care about (and you might without knowing it – this book shows how it is possible to hide and pretend, even from yourself), this book will give some insight into people with Asperger’s and how you can support them.
Even if you don’t have Aspies in your life, this book shows how much better we’d all be by taking people for who they are.
Please buy and read – you won’t regret it!
ALIncredibly intriguing and interesting, the author herself has Asperger’s, but wasn’t diagnosed until she was an adult. Her novel is part reflection, part informative and part memoir of her experiences, thoughts, reasonings and hopes. Part of the book is set out in a Q & A format, which actually makes for clear understanding. I would recommend this book to anyone curious about Asperger’s in child or adult, or for any adult recently diagnosed and struggling with what this means.
DreamLilyThis book manages to be an extremely engaging personal story as well as a wealth of information about Asperger’s and the Autism Spectrum. Curiously, it was both fascinating enough that I didn’t want to stop reading, while also being organized in such a way that made stopping for a while at chapter boundaries easy to do without losing track of the personal story. Had I bought a hard copy of this book instead of a Kindle copy, this one would go on my bookshelf as a keeper. I’m sure I’ll be reading this one again.
John H. HardinInformative, personal and entertaining.
A very interesting book on a subject about which I knew very little. The style is personal and entertaining and serves as a useful reminder that “normal” is just a setting on a clothes dryer.
Bill HerodHelpful for parent of an Aspie.
Michelle covers her struggles and “quirks” very well for me, the mother of an Aspie. I love my child and will appreciate their individuality even more.
amAsperger’s on the Inside is a different memoir and look on how it is to have so called high functioning Aspergers and yet have struggles. It hit me hard because on the outside it might look as a person that comes from a academical family with great support should have every opportunity to succeed well in life. And yet it seems like internally I go from challenge to challenge in ways many people haven’t even considered as something to be bothered by.
Michelle write with a lot of humor. It makes the book enjoyable to read and it is also a very honest memoir. I can’t recommend it enough, even just to the curious. It has take on many different issues and it is written differently than many books on the theme out there.
Amazon US CustomerI spent a Saturday and read this book…
I spent a Saturday and read this book. This is an autobiography of a young woman diagnosed with ASD after reaching adulthood. The book is done in a question and answer format that seems quite fitting for the author. I found her book to be very engaging and insightful regarding the social struggles she faced with employment; school and in developing friendships. This is a story of self-discovery and self-acceptance that ends on a high note. I think it advances my understanding of my son who is not as willing to be as forthcoming as Ms. Vines.
Amazon US Customer
Brilliant Book! – Best to read on Kindle!
Oh Michelle…Thank you for taking the time and energy to write this book. At age 45, I’m 2 years in to my journey of ‘Do I have Asperger’s?’ and whilst I kinda know I do, your book has just been a massive confirmation for me.
For prospective buyers of this book…if you are one of the many people who discover they may be on the Spectrum later in life, or even have a daughter and are wondering how she may be experiencing her world, you may find this book particularly useful.
I think it’s specific strength comes from translating the DSM specifications (not literally) into ‘How do Aspies experience the world?’
It broke my heart and then mended it again as I identified with many of the ups and downs of life and relationships that Michelle explained so honestly and eloquently. My one TOP TIP though, (and please forgive me for this Michelle), although I love the feel of a book in my hands, the font was so tiny that I’d wished I’d got the Kindle edition. It was a compliment to the author’s good writing that I struggled with those tiny words all the way to the end 😉
Very helpful, insightful and moving. Michelle writes very fluently and with humour!
FlickaAfter having seen her presentation at Houston Oasis on Youtube, a lot of things about myself started to make sense. Still a little bit unsure if I am on the autism spectrum, I purchased the book still expecting to read something weird. Well….nope…nothing weird at all…..doesn’t everybody experience the world like she does? Apart from differences in detail (I don’t have any problems with phone calls and I’m not a nyctophiliac, but more of a claustrophiliac) everything made sense. So, after some some consideration I got myself tested and found out I’m on the autism spectrum as well. Yes, there are drawbacks: being in a group of people is as exhausting to me as a game of chess. But if, like I am fortunately capable of doing, you can intellectually compensate to a high degree, autism has upsides as well. The ability to hyper focus is one of the more generally occurring autistic traits which can be employed when logical problems need to be solved.
This is the way Michelle treats this subject: it’s not all bad news, there are upsides and downsides. Furthermore, her book is very well written. If you imagine an Australian accent it is as if she’s right there next to you. “Asperger’s on the Inside” is a useful and enjoyable book about what it’s like to be autistic and be capable to adapt intellectually to a certain degree….you know….the people who don’t seem autistic but once you get to know them you sense something is a little of….. All in all a highly recommended read! Beware of the word “daggy”, though. In my case that particular word has been etching itself in my brain since I read her book. And the first word of her acknowledgements……HILARIOUS!!!
Amazon US CustomerI loved how the author uses such honesty and great detail …
I loved how the author uses such honesty and great detail to really help the reader understand her journey with Asperger’s! As a teacher of students on the spectrum, I found this book to really help me understand things my kids experience on a daily basis from a totally different perspective! A great read!
Melissa SchaeferMichelle’s book is one of several biographies and educational books on Asperger’s I’ve been reading since my diagnosis in October. I can relate so much to the burnout experiences at work that she describes, and many many other things. Been highlighting all the way (Kindle edition). For any Aspie girl or woman out there who wants to feel that she is not alone in her experiences and learn more about the condition from a fellow spectrum person, highly recommended! As well as for those who want to understand us better. Thank you Michelle! Your presentation was amazing as well.
AnnaHeart breaking story. What a very very strong lady …
Heart breaking story . What a very very strong lady.
Great read ,helped me to have an insight into your world . I have learned so much . Thank you.
Ann HogarthI just finished Michelle’s book, and felt inspired to write a review. I found Michelle’s writing style to work very well for me, a non-Aspie woman! You go, girl! I have been interested in autism and Asperger’s Syndrome for years – learning how our brains can be wired differently and contribute to varied abilities and skills. Michelle’s story helps me understand her different inner world, and her struggles to be accepted in in a social or work world that functions in a very restricted way. My view of the world just got bigger. Thank you, Michelle.
AraluenI love psychology books, but this was also a fun story as well as insight into a tribe of people most don’t understand. All engineers and their families should read it, but female engineers and scientists definitely must pick it up. It’s the first time that a stranger had so much in common with me…both struggles and strengths.
I really enjoyed this book in every way. I am on a journey of discovery myself, an adult women having learned later in life that I have Asperger’s. Ah, all those odd-shaped pieces finally have a place to fit. It was wonderful to crawl into Michelle’s head and see what goes on in there and why things happened as they did for her. I could relate to so much she said – especially the pain of living a life on the “outside” and never knowing why things weren’t working out for you. That can lead down such a bad path… There a ton of chapters on all sorts of subjects because we have 1000 things to talk about at once and I liked that we could just go from one to the other and not get too bogged down in one particular subject. Thanks for writing this, Michelle.
T.P.Revealing and honest look at Asperger’s
By sharing her life, from childhood to adulthood, the reader really experiences the strengths and weaknesses of Asperger’s. Would be great for teachers, employers or anyone who is curious a about the human mind.
Sue CassanVery interesting read about Asperger’s
This was a very interesting book about Asperger’s, written by a lady who has this and gave me a very clear understanding of people who experience this disorder.
SherlisI really liked this book. Michelle Vines clearly sets forth how someone with Aspergers, or high-functioning autism operates in every day life. I found her style of writing easy to follow and understand, unlike the typical textbook definitions and descriptions of people on the spectrum that mostly confused and confounded me. I have a much deeper comprehension of AS in general and so much empathy for Aspies and of their struggles now. I do relate to a lot of what she is saying. While this book is useful for both men and women on the spectrum, I feel it is most helpful for women who up until now have not been recognized as being different in their manifestation of Aspergers than men. I think this parallels the history of sexism in general in the mental health profession where women were judged solely by men’s standards rather than their own. If you have wondered if you might be autistic this book may clarify your doubts and lead to a self-diagnosis or formal diagnosis by a mental health professional. Much needed book by a delightful and gifted individual!
Sylvia PathI could not put this book down! It should be required reading for anyone married to, related to, friends with or STUDYING a woman with Asperger’s Syndrome. You will come to understand her and empathize with the difficulties she has connecting to other people, and trying to live a normal life. We should be welcoming and supporting people with Asperger’s so they can accomplish all the wonderful things they are capable of.
Catherine G. WilsonRecommend for any belated adult-diagnosed ASD person.
I finally finished _Asperger’s on the Inside_ by Michelle Vines, and as an autistic individual only diagnosed myself at age 39, I could really identify with the life narratives that Michelle lays out in her engaging book. They ring so true to me and reflect my own experience growing up with autism (Aspergers) but lacking a formal diagnosis. My go-to pre-DX label was that of “introvert”, but while this is not wrong, it’s woefully inadequate, and Michelle’s very visceral life experiences make this patently clear. I can very much relate to having friends yet managing to alienate them without ever knowing truly why. I can relate to being in workplace environments, and following the letter-of-the-law written expectations verbatim yet ultimately still failing because I didn’t “get” the “unwritten” social rules of the same workplace. I’ve suffered the same kinds of workplace discrimination the Michelle has; nothing I could ever prove in court, but still real all the same. There is so much of Michelle’s experience that deeply resonates for me, right down to the preferring subdued lighting when coming to work in the morning. I thought that was a purely personal quirk of my own so it was a bit of a shock to find out it’s a fairly common thing among my fellow Aspies. The book’s conclusion is Michelle finally meeting and learning to relate with fellow High Functioning Adult-Diagnosed fellow Aspies, myself among them. I am quoted in the book in a few places and I can also attest that meeting fellow adult Aspies was quite the watershed moment in my own life as well. I’m glad Michelle wrote this book and hope it will provide inspiration and solace to other adult Aspies out there who may feel as if they’re isolated and alone in their struggles and that nobody understands them. We do understand you, our ASD brothers and sisters, and urge you to reach out and find your neurodivergent kin in cyberspace and in the physical world around you. We’re here, we’ve always been here, and we’re not going away. We need to be there for each other in a hostile and indifferent world that wasn’t designed for us.
John RonaldI needed this book so many years ago. This personal account is valuable to all age groups and the whole community.
Michelle is so open and cute.
A very comforting and encouraging read
Michelle has a lovely way of writing. She puts the reader at ease and writes in an intuitive way. I also love how her thoughtfulness, caring nature, quirkiness and sense of humour come across as she writes. This book could have been written about me! And I’m sure many other Aspies will say the same thing and find enormous comfort from reading it. Well done Michelle and thank you 🙂
V.H.I really liked this book and found it very helpful! I was reading more technical books on Aspergers/Autism at the same time that gave me great information, but liked that I could relate to so many of the life stories in this book.
S. RiceI received this book as an ARC from Grey Gecko Press. As a teacher of students with ASD, I found Asperger’s on the Inside very easy to read and understand. Though autobiographical in nature, it is insightful, honest, funny, sweet, and entertaining as well as educational. It gives a very personal glimpse into how a person on the spectrum views the world through a different lens than a neuro-typical peer. This is a book I will recommend to others! Thanks, Michelle for sharing your story.
Bob“Asperger’s on the Inside” is a Must Read
“Asperger’s on the Inside” by Michelle Vines seems like a “coming out” book of an adult who finds a name for why she thinks and acts the way she does, but it is really a debut . . . of a new writer. The book starts rough, which Michelle explains is done on purpose. The format of each chapter is question and answer. Michelle is talking directly to you, the reader. The chapter order is a bit strange too but by the end, it worked. This is one of those books where you read it and then read the intro again and everything falls into place beautifully. The inclusion of the Aussie slang dictionary was a nice touch, making the book more enjoyable to read. The worst part of the book is that it ended. I wanted to know what happened next, so I hope Michelle continues to write.
Amazon US CustomerGreat personal glimpse of the inside!
My son was diagnosed with Asperger’s, since then I tend to try and read anything I can get my hands on to research AS, and a lot of books I’m finding myself questioning “could I be?” most of the books I read lack personal experiences, things that happened, it’s just a book giving definitions and tricks to cope (holistic stuff, etc) so many books like that focus on some of the traits and not all, and that’s why I go back and forth between, Am I? no..I’m normal! but what about when I do this..? so textbook definitions are not what I want. This author found me on a review I wrote complaining about it.
This book satisfied a lot of my need to read personal experiences, I really liked that she went back in her past and identified a lot of situations and things that happened, straight up to her questioning if she had it or not. There was a lot in it I wish got more depth and more time, but overall I enjoyed reading the book. The author comes across as really likeable and if I lived where she lived I would totally consider looking her up to be friends. A lot of pages and passages made me feel like she was me, a lot of it really made me think, opened up my eyes, I really appreciated that, and that the author opened up her inner thoughts to us to read.
KimG
I’d give it 1000 stars if I could!
I haven’t yet finished this book but I have to say that it’s one of the best, if not THE best book I’ve read about Asperger’s. There are so many parts that I feel like I could’ve written about myself?!
I cannot emphasise enough the amazing value of finding out that you aren’t alone. I really would recommend this brilliant book to any woman who finds out she has Aspergers later in life!
Thank you so much Michelle Vines!!
It was fascinating to get such a beautifully described glimpse into the mind of an intelligent, observant and resilient woman – who also happens to have Asperger’s. Even as an “NT”, I could identify with many of the issues that the author describes and was completely absorbed from beginning to end. I particularly liked the section about the advantages that people with A/S can bring to society – and I agree that there are many. If you have A/S and are newly diagnosed, or if you are interested in A/S or even just how other people think, this is a compelling read. I strongly recommend it.
WoodwalkerThis book is written in a delightful format which is both informative and entertaining. Michelle has changed my thinking and I have reccomended it to others. Michelle’s personality shines through and I wish her well in the future.
Maureen BurnsAmong the absolutely top books for Aspies to understand THEMSELVES and the world.
I have read just about every book on Asperger’s and autism. This is a real standout as it truly describes what being a female Aspie is. How do I know? I’m old enough to be her mother and I am an Aspie. Although I have not had all the trials and tribulations she has experienced, there is so much I can identify with. What I found different than other books in this area is that she analyzes why things are as they are in so many areas we Aspies struggle with and explains the situations and why things go as they do with us in the world. If one is not an Aspie perhaps this book would not be understood –this is not a book for parents or clinicians or teachers. Off the almost 400 books I have read and considered, I consider this among the top 5 for Aspies to read; for them to feel a kinship She does a great job with describing what Neurotypicals are and do — that would be helpful as we Aspies are always trying to understand NTs.. Yes, she does use some terms that are British; but she does explain them. Lastly, her writing style is so Aspie-like. Yes, we have great powers of concentration; but we do jump around. I think each chapter begins by making clear what that chapter is about.
dqhA must read for every NT. Definitely puts the thoughts in your head that cement a saying I was quoted years ago. “Every one has special needs – some are more special than others” Stands true.
Sandie BarettThis has revealed so much about people in my family.
After years of walking on eggshells.
1. trying not to upset a particular member of my family.
2. Wondering why she disliked me despite my efforts to have a good relationship with her.
3. Feeling annoyed, hurt and even abused.
So now I have an inkling of where the misunderstanding comes from and can maybe broach the subject together.
Thanks for the effort you put into writing it Michelle.😍
Very Interesting and increases ones understanding.
Miss Lesley ShaylerArrived in good time and well packaged. Got this to try and understand Asperger a bit more from first person perspective. It’s very good read t has humour & gets you talking & thinking.
C.PWell written, insightful book about having Asperger’s. My goodness the writer is so honest and fair in her assessments. I am a nurse and have only read clinical information on Asperger’s …this book took things to a way more informative level …congratulations Michelle.
It was an alarming experience for me, reading this book. Michelle was relating things that I thought were weirdly unique only to me. I had no idea that what I’ve been experiencing all my life actually was named and definable.
DebbieI found this book very insightful sharing the perspectives of the “Aspie world”. A lot of food for thought and thinking about how to treat everyone well and appreciate all the differences that make the human race so interesting. Very well expressed, realistic, and hopeful.
This book is perfect for anyone wanting to learn about what life is like for someone who has Asperger’s. Michelle’s real-life examples and explanations are better and more helpful than textbook information. Very easy to read and useful for helping to understand myself and my friends on the Spectrum. Thank you, Michelle, for your courage and effort in sharing your story!
Deborah D.Goodreads
First of all, thank you very much to the author Michelle Vines, for giving me a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
I really loved how Michelle Vines set her book out, with her story being told, and chapters in between that covers so many interesting topics relating to Asperger’s.
I like Michelle’s light-hearted humor through the book. Recently, I have been going through a tough time with my diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome. I’ve been finding it hard to accept myself and my AS (I was diagnosed 5 years ago, but haven’t dealt with it yet.). Asperger’s on the Inside is especially a good book, to me, because I’m learning more about AS and therefore myself, and discovering another person I can relate to so much is really uplifting for me. She has helped a bit in coming to terms with my AS.
I really respect and admire Michelle Vines. I think, without meeting her, she’s an awesome person.
I highly recommend to anyone with AS and people who know someone with AS and want to understand them more.
JoJoHow special to be invited into someone’s private world. I now have a better understanding of what Asperger’s Syndrome is. Perhaps it will make me more understanding in the future. I come away from this book thinking that we all have some Asperger symptoms but not enough to receive the label.
I enjoyed seeing Michelle’s becoming more and more positive as she came to grips with her awareness of herself-both her strengths and weaknesses.
FrankieVines’ book reads more like a chat with a good friend. She’s amazingly open and honest about her life as an “aspie” Although it’s true you can never really walk in someone else’s shoes, you can follow them down the street 🙂 I like how Vines makes it clear this is her experience and she’s not speaking for what is a really wide range of personalities and experiences. I learned new ideas such as aspies having male brains which led to an aha! moment, of which there were many for me. The Australian language glossary at the back was fun. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
KimMichelle Vines learns as a young adult that she has Asperger’s Syndrome. “Asperger’s on the Inside” is her autobiography, with her own story interspersed with chapters containing her answers to common questions about Asperger’s.
This is not so much a book as it is a chat with Michelle. Really, it’s like listening to a friend. The book has a very conversational style.
Michelle has a very positive view of being as “aspie,” and so I think this book would be helpful to young people who are also on the spectrum and who may be struggling with that finding.
One thing I found interesting was Michelle’s assertion that females with AS may have it easier than males. She found that “many men have seemed to like my aspie quirks and often even find me charming or my rationality refreshing and a relief from the norm … when I look at the aspie guys I know, however, I can’t help but notice how quickly typical women are repelled by those same traits and how much male aspies can struggle in want of a partner.” Also “Autism in a boy can make an individual seem extreme, an outlier on the charts of what’s considered ‘normal’ behavior, whereas women can be more of a mixed bag of ‘unusual.’ We may come across as odd, more rational/logical in our thinking, less empathetic, quirky, and /or ‘not really like the other girls,’ but we don’t fall so far out of the realm of ‘normal’ human behavior as to be flagged.”
Other insights — noise and light are hard for Michelle to handle. She often has trouble determining the volume at which she should speak. She discusses the difference between the way aspies deal with things vs how NT’s (neuro-typicals, or non-aspies) do, giving 9/11 as an example. When she heard what had happened, she thought, “Oh no, that isn’t good,” and went on with her day. It was only later that she realized that it was a “big deal” to people.
Michelle makes a good cheerleader for aspies in general, noting a quote by Tony Attwood: “Asperger’s has probably been an important and valuable characteristic of our species throughout evolution.” And, “Autism is not a processing error. It’s a different operating system.”
I’m not sure this book would appeal to the general public, but if you either have Asperger’s yourself or know someone who does, you’ll find it an interesting insight into the mind of someone on the autism spectrum.
SusanAfter finishing reading your book, I must say it was absolutely brilliant and could relate to so much of it. It certainly made me think back to my younger days, and even now realizing that I too was oblivious to some of these things that happened. Thanks so much for writing such a heartfelt story. I especially loved the way you went back and forth with the chapters…. Works completely fine with my Aspie way of thinking!
Barb CookA very easy read and written from the heart. When I received this book, I didn’t know it was going to be a personal story and reflection. I think this book is good for educators or parents who may have children with Asperger’s — these children may be easily misunderstood to be anti-social or unfeeling. I enjoyed reading this book because 1. there weren’t many scientific terms to get through and really, it was an easy read and 2. it wasn’t some made-up fictional story about someone. Thanks Michelle for the book. 🙂
Desilu Anne Nair“Asperger’s on the Inside” by Michelle Vines seems like a “coming out” book of an adult who finds a name for why she thinks and acts the way she does, but it is really a debut . . . of a new writer. The book starts rough, which Michelle explains is done on purpose. The format of each chapter is question and answer. Michelle is talking directly to you, the reader. The chapter order is a bit strange too but by the end, it worked. This is one of those books where you read it and then read the intro again and everything falls into place beautifully. The inclusion of the Aussie slang dictionary was a nice touch, making the book more enjoyable to read. The worst part of the book is that it ended. I wanted to know what happened next, so I hope Michelle continues to write.
Nancy BehrendtOne of the annoying things about many books with “autism” or “Asperger’s” on the cover is the lack of actual content relating to the title. Having said that, it is delicate balance to craft a personal story as well as deliver on the promise of the title. In Asperger’s on the Inside Michelle Vines does the job and balances the content rather well. Personally I liked the stories about people interactions at work earning money as an engineer and then the stories about people interactions working as a full-time mother. It shows the consistency of social problems across different environments, even though they may be of a different type. I am also glad it is not marketed as a story of the feminine version of autism (as many are). Whenever I have read the stories there is more to relate with than not. Just like those books, there is much to relate with here regardless of gender. Sometimes it is a help just to know we are not alone in our experiences.
The book is written in an interesting format – each chapter is the answer to a question, or an expanded thought, or a part of Michelle Vines’ life story. The chapters are generally short, and with the mixture there is always something interesting happening for the reader. The conversational style Michelle uses comes across as someone who has the aim of informing and helping. And she does.
Warren MayocchiAnother very interesting book on Asperger’s, from the perspective of an Aspie. Vines goes into a lot of detail, not just about her own life story and how that has been influenced by her AS traits, but how Asperger’s can influence people in general, from reactions to certain situations, to the sense of humor (usually using examples from her own life). I enjoyed Vines’s writing style, which is clear, engaging and often funny.
Richard SouthworthI found this book fascinating. It’s organized as a set of questions and answers, with each chapter discussing the answer in depth by relating personal episodes in the author’s life. This made it every personal and every engaging. Once I started reading it, I had difficulty putting it down. I kept wanting to talk about it with people, but I also kept recommending others read the book, so I couldn’t discuss it with them until they read it. Frustrating!
I bought this book because I was interested to find out more about Asperger’s and the Autism Spectum and it seemed like hearing about it from a personal angle would be more interesting. But I started to find that I could related to may of the experiences the author discussed. Hard to do better with a book than find out something about yourself as well as having a good time reading!
John HardinDespite the occasional typo and the overly conversational style of writing, I really enjoyed reading this book. As an Aspie who was also diagnosed later in life, I was able to relate to many of the author’s experiences.
For example, her description of discovering that she truly had Asperger’s instead of just having a few of the traits was very similar to how I felt during my discovery process: “I wasn’t just a little bit Aspie. This was me – the stories being related – were completely me, and it was the most amazing discovery.”
This book will definitely feel familiar to other Aspies, and it’s also a decent resource for NTs who want to learn more about what it’s like to have Asperger’s without reading long, drawn-out medical explanations. Of course, not all of the author’s traits and experiences are shared by every Aspie. After all, as the saying goes, if you’ve met one person with Asperger’s, you’ve met one person with Asperger’s.
April TaylorI was given this book as an advanced readers copy in exchange for a honest review.
This book was very interestingly written, very different from other autobiographical books. Also knowing a person with Asperger this book gave more insight into what must be going on in such individuals private thoughts and feelings.
It was a very interesting book to read. Worth a read ( especially if you know an aspie).
Yolande BirdVines’ book reads more like a chat with a good friend. She’s amazingly open and honest about her life as an “aspie” Although it’s true you can never really walk in someone else’s shoes, you can follow them down the street 🙂 I like how Vines makes it clear this is her experience and she’s not speaking for what is a really wide range of personalities and experiences. I learned new ideas such as aspies having male brains which led to an aha! moment, of which there were many for me. The Australian language glossary at the back was fun. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Perri5 Stars
Asperger’s on the Inside is a different memoir and look on how it is to have so called high functioning Aspergers and yet have struggles. It hit me hard because on the outside it might look as a person that comes from a academical family with great support should have every opportunity to succeed well in life. And yet it seems like internally I go from challenge to challenge in ways many people haven’t even considered as something to be bothered by.
Michelle write with a lot of humour. It makes the book enjoyable to read and it is also a very honest memoir. I can’t recommend it enough, even just to the curious. It has take on many different issues and it is written differently than many books on the theme out there.
WinterAll through her schooling and working life, the author struggled to develop relationships, fit in and generally cope with social interaction. Aware that she didn’t see things the way others did, she spent a lot of time observing how people related on a day to day basis, in an effort to be like them. However, her natural honesty was often not appreciated, and on the other hand, she found the subterfuges of others confusing. Eventually, in her late 20s, she received a diagnosis of Asperger’s and her world not only began to make sense, but she was able to connect with other Aspies, and in doing so, recognize and celebrate her true self. I found this a highly engaging and generous read, learning much about the world of the Aspie along the way. In some ways, the most important message was one of acceptance and inclusion of anyone who differs from the norm. Highly recommended.
LynneThis was an excellent book! I found it very eye-opening and very interesting to read. The author takes the reader through her own experiences as a person with Asperger’s. Her writing is entertaining and from the heart. After having read her book, I have a much better understanding of what my adult son must have gone through growing up with Asperger’s. I think every parent with a child (or adult) on the autism spectrum should read this book. It puts so many things into perspective.
Ginette HannanAs the mother of an Aspie son, I’ve read everything Aspie related that I could get my hands on in the 18 years since he was diagnosed. I love to read books written by other Aspies, as they offer a greater insight in to Aspie life. This book is one of the best, I learned something new from reading this that I hadn’t seen in other Aspie books. A really enjoyable read, (although at times very sad) I would recommend this to anyone with an interest in Asperger’s and how it affects an Aspie’s life.
Paula Hannaby