The Common Reading Program at Appalachian State is excited to announce the 2023-24 book selection: John Elder Robison’s Be Different: My Adventures with Asperger’s and My Advice for Fellow Aspergians, Misfits, Families, and Teachers.
As stated on the publisher’s website, “in Be Different, the New York Times bestselling author of Look Me in the Eye shares a new batch of endearing stories about his childhood, adolescence, and young adult years, giving the reader a rare window into the Autistic mind” and offering “practical advice for anyone who feels ‘different’ on how to improve the weak communication and social skills that keep so many people from taking full advantage of their often remarkable gifts.”
With a style that is engaging and honest, personal and practical, Robison writes from the perspective of a neurodiverse individual—he coined and prefers the term “nypical”—one who shares his personal insights and lessons learned as he continues his advocacy for neurodiversity and autism.
Dr. Don Presnell, Director of the Common Reading Program, says that the book will speak to readers from all backgrounds, as it will really challenge and change readers’ perspectives about how we all communicate: “The book is a real-world read that uses the lens of neurodiversity to help us better understand others as well as ourselves. It helps us practice the fourth major goal of General Education at Appalachian: understanding responsibilities of community membership.”
