Writers on the Spectrum
How Autism and Asperger Syndrome have Influenced Literary Writing
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From Hans Christian Andersen's fairytale characters to Lewis Carroll's Wonderland and Emily Dickinson's poetic imagery, the writings and lives of some of the world's most celebrated authors indicate signs of autism and Asperger's Syndrome. Through analysis of biographies, autobiographies, letters and diaries, Professor Julie Brown identifies literary talents who display characteristics of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and uncovers the similarities in their writing that suggest atypical, autistic brains.
Providing close readings of authors' works, Brown explores writing processes, content, theme, structure and writing style to reveal the underlying autistic traits that have influenced their writing. The book provides an overview of ASD and common threads in autistic writing followed by an illuminating exploration of how these threads are evident in the literature of both well-known and lesser known authors.
This groundbreaking study of autism in literature will be of interest to anyone with a professional or personal interest in literature or the autistic mind.
Providing close readings of authors' works, Brown explores writing processes, content, theme, structure and writing style to reveal the underlying autistic traits that have influenced their writing. The book provides an overview of ASD and common threads in autistic writing followed by an illuminating exploration of how these threads are evident in the literature of both well-known and lesser known authors.
This groundbreaking study of autism in literature will be of interest to anyone with a professional or personal interest in literature or the autistic mind.
- Published: Dec 15 2009
- Pages: 240
- 226 x 165mm
- ISBN: 9781843109136
Press Reviews
Dr. Patrick Prindle, Professor of Psychology, Clatsop Community College, OR
Once in a great while a book comes along that stops you in your tracks. Writers on the Spectrum is one such book. Like a gifted surgeon, Julie Brown tackles some of our best loved works of literature, cutting through the layers of literary technique to reveal the characteristic traits of Autism and Asperger Syndrome within. In so doing, she casts a new light on these works of literature, and presents the particular artistic gifts of autism as a special gift to humanity. This book is a must read, not just for lovers of literature, but also for people on the spectrum and the mental health professionals who work with them.
Facts & Fiction
This book is a must read, not only for those with a professional interestin the autistic mind, but also anyone who has a passion for literature and stories generally.
The Midwest Book Review
From Henry David Thoreau to Emily Dickinson, Dr. Julie Brown provides a fascinating look into the lives of these writers which can do much to give hope and understanding of the disorders.