Freaks, Geeks and Asperger Syndrome: A User Guide to Adolescence

"Im 15 years old and I was diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome (AS) last year and reading this book has changed my life. Before I was told I had AS, I was always picked on for being different and sometimes I was so depressed and felt so alone, I wouldn't get out of bed for days. When I was diagnosed, I was told to read this book by a family friend and in doing so, my life changed. Luke Jackson, the author of the book writes about the everyday struggles that AS sufferers have to deal with, and after I finished the book, i thought 'Im not alone, there are other people who know what im going through'. Now I have turned my life around and I am looking foward to my future. Luke Jackson, i just want to say 'Thank You' for making me realise that im not a freak."
~ Written on 2008-05-11

"This is a fantastic book regardless of why you are reading it. I have worked in the past, and still do, with children who have AS and this was my main reason for reading it. It has such a different feel from other books as he is only 13 and this comes across so much in the book. I have read other books by teenagers and young adults with the same condition and they are equally just as good. I liked the fact that it all seemed to be Luke coming through rather than an adult's influence (apart from the obvious guidance and tidying up a book would need before it gets published).

The topics he covers are very relevant to those who have AS and those who come in contact with AS. Aspects such as bullying, fixations, sleeping, sports, friendships, dating, difficulties at school and language are dealt with brilliantly. However the most pertinent chapter for me was the one about when to tell a child they have AS.

Luke used his immediate sources - mother and siblings to help him with some of the content so that others with the condition can understand how people see them and this was such a good part of the book. I loved the idioms he uses and laughed out loud in many places. Not only will it give people an insight there is also practical information in there with websites, books and dietary information (also discussed in his other book). A fabulous read that is both inspirational and refreshing. "
~ Written on 2008-04-29

"I bought this book more out of curiousity rather than a need to know about AS/ Autism; I know/'work' with people on the autistic spectrum and this book was fantastic.
I'd recommend it to anyone whether autistic, family or friends of someone who is autistic or just someone who is interested."
~ Written on 2007-09-18

"As an individual with Asperger's syndrome, I thought that it portrayed Asperger's syndrome perfectly, I could relate to almost all of it. The humour worked really well, because AS is normally portrayed really negatively. So, in summary, it made me laugh, cry, and realise that having AS isn't such a bad thing after all.

So, if Luke Jackson ever reads this, then very well done! I thoroughly enjoyed every page of it!!!

Jennifer Jackson "
~ Written on 2007-01-10

"As a parent of a 5 year old boy who comes in the 'complex disorders' category; maybe AS, maybe ASD, maybe ADD/HD, maybe OCD... the list goes on, I found this book very heart warming and useful. Luke describes many traits that my son has, and advises how to deal with/ adjust to and understand these behaviours and unique ways of seeing and interpreting the world. I was so happy to gain these insights and to 'hear' Luke, brimming with intelligence and enthusiasm for his mission of enlightening us all, refer to his own experiences and slant on things.

Positive and uplifting. Highly recommended for parents, and also of course teachers and AS people amongst others (saving this for my son when he's old enough to read it).

Thanks Luke :)"
~ Written on 2006-07-29