Book review of Living with Adult Autism

by Claude Moore (Author)

Updated at: 19/01/2025

Living with Adult Autism: Practical Tools for Executive Functioning, Sensory Overload, and Better Communication, so You Can Thrive Unmasked, by Claude Moore, offers a practical guide for autistic adults navigating daily life. This book moves beyond childhood-focused narratives, providing clear, accessible strategies to manage executive dysfunction, sensory overload, and communication challenges. Learn personalized coping mechanisms, effective self-advocacy techniques, and methods to build meaningful connections. Discover how to thrive in social situations, manage anxiety, and embrace your neurodiverse identity. Moore's guide empowers you to reclaim control, fostering self-acceptance and authentic living in a world that isn't always understanding. Unmask your true self and begin your transformative journey today.

4.9 / 12 ratings

Review Living with Adult Autism

"Living with Adult Autism: Practical Tools for Executive Functioning, Sensory Overload, and Better Communication, so You Can Thrive Unmasked" resonated with me deeply, offering a refreshing and empowering perspective on the adult autistic experience. Unlike many books that focus solely on childhood autism or get bogged down in complex jargon, this one cuts straight to the heart of the matter, providing practical, readily applicable strategies for navigating daily life. I particularly appreciated the emphasis on self-advocacy and the author's clear understanding of the unique challenges faced by autistic adults.

The book’s strength lies in its holistic approach. It doesn't just address specific symptoms or difficulties in isolation, but rather weaves them together into a comprehensive understanding of the autistic experience. For example, the chapters on sensory overload are not simply lists of coping mechanisms, but are contextualized within the broader challenges of executive functioning and communication. This interconnectedness helps to create a more nuanced and realistic picture, fostering a sense of understanding and validation for the reader. It acknowledges the complexities and the sometimes overwhelming nature of sensory processing differences, but instead of leaving the reader feeling hopeless, it empowers them with tangible solutions.

The author skillfully balances practical advice with a compassionate and encouraging tone. The book doesn't shy away from the difficulties autistic adults face, but it consistently emphasizes their strengths and capabilities. The focus is not on "fixing" autism, but on embracing and celebrating it as a unique neurodiversity. This positive and affirming approach is crucial, helping to build self-esteem and fostering a sense of self-acceptance. The strategies offered are clearly explained and are easily adaptable to individual circumstances, avoiding the one-size-fits-all approach that can often feel invalidating.

What struck me most was the book's insightful exploration of intersectionality within the autistic community. It acknowledges that the autistic experience is not uniform, and that factors like gender, race, socioeconomic status, and other neurodevelopmental conditions can significantly impact an individual's journey. This recognition is crucial, as it promotes a more inclusive and equitable understanding of autism, moving beyond the often-narrowly defined stereotypes. The inclusion of sections on navigating relationships and workplace challenges further showcases the practical applicability of the advice offered. These are not just theoretical concepts, but real-world concerns that the book addresses with sensitivity and actionable steps.

In conclusion, "Living with Adult Autism" is a valuable resource for autistic adults, their families, friends, and colleagues. It is a compassionate, practical, and empowering guide that fosters self-acceptance, promotes effective coping mechanisms, and advocates for a more inclusive and understanding world. The book’s clear writing style, combined with its deeply empathetic approach, makes it an accessible and insightful read that leaves the reader feeling understood, supported, and ready to thrive. It's a book I highly recommend and one that I believe will make a real difference in the lives of many.