Endorsed by MAAP Services/ Highly commended in the Popular Medicine Category of the BMA Book Awards 2009

In this new book Simon Baron-Cohen summarizes the current understanding of autism and Asperger Syndrome. He explains the process of diagnosis, as well as the options for education and intervention for those with these conditions. Taking a lifespan approach, Professor Baron-Cohen considersa how the conditions affect very young children through to adulthood. He also outlines his new Empathizing-Systemizing (ES) theory, which aims to explain all of the psychological features of autistic-spectrum conditions. This book is designed firstly for people with these conditions and their families. It will be useful to clinicians, teachers, and other professionals involved in the care and support of people on the autistic spectrum. The book will also provide an invaluable introduction to the topic for students in the social and biological sciences.

"This is an excellent and engaging book, providing an up-to-date and remarkably comprehensive source of knowledge and practical information on autism and Asperger syndrome." - Richard Mills, Director of Research, Research Autism, Communication

"This is a clear, well-illustrated little book that provides a concise introduction to the ASDs and balances coverage of many of the issues that preoccupy families in the initial stages of coming to terms with the diagnosis with coverage of less immediately obvious issues and direction to resources such as websites and support groups." - Journal of Autism and Development Disorders