The cover alone is reason enough to read this book. The image of the boy with the squinched up face in a red checked collar buttoned shirt is a volume of its own.
Asberger's syndrome is like "Autism lite". Recognized relatively recently, it is part of the spectrum of Autism- a condition seemingly more and more common in our lives today. John Elder Robison writes of his life with straightforward, brave truth. And his life is remarkably interesting. His parents are dysfunctional- to the point of straight-jacketed insanity at times- and his undiagnosed Asberger's makes understanding social interaction very difficult for young John Elder. But, he discovers electronics and with Asbergian focus makes a niche for himself in the world, creating sound systems for Pink Floyd and exploding guitars for Kiss. He tries corporate life for a time and eventually settles into his own business of repairing Rolls Royces. All the while taking us through the ups and downs of living a life as an oddball. In one of his later chapters he explains the thought process of marrying his second wife "Unit Two". Unit One being the elder sister and Unit Three the younger sister. I laughed aloud for this one, and decided Unit Two might be Saintly One.
Although he didn't participate in the drug/booze/sex culture around him, he did travel with rock bands for several years, and this culture is described. There is some foul language in the book as well. For these reasons, not a great book for the kids. Too bad, as I think this generation will be encountering Autistic conditions far more often than my own. Empathy stems from knowlege and this book gives you a lot to think about.
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