Reading some of the reviews of this book, you might think that Uta Frith is an example of neurotypical prejudice against autistic people. There are lots of 1-star reviews, decrying her for using language unacceptable to today’s autism advocates. But what those reviewers appear to fail to realise is that Uta Frith is one of the most important scientists in the history of research into autism. She has been at the leading edge of research for almost as long as there has been research into autism. Frith was one the people responsible for taking autism out of mental hospitals and into everyday life. To see her traduced by reviewers ignorant of her role is annoying.

But it’s worth making this clear: if you’re committed to a view that autism is purely a pyschological difference and never a disability, then this book is not for you. However, it might just be because Frith’s experience of dealing with autism is wider than most peoples. There are cases, in particular those without any language, when it’s pretty well impossible to see autism as solely a difference and not a deficit. Yes, it’s part of that person’s fundamental character but an amelioration of some aspects of that character would make life richer not just for the autistic person but also for those who have to care for him.

Read this book if you want to have a clear overview of autism and autism research from a scientist who has been involved with the subject for forty years. Don’t read it if you’re committed to a view of autism as an invariably an unrecognised blessing.