Uniquely Human: Updated and Expanded

A Different Way of Seeing Autism

By: Barry M. Prizant PhD, Tom Fields-Meyer - contributor

Narrated by: Barry M. Prizant

Length: 11 hrs and 48 mins

Publisher's summary

Winner of the Autism Society of America’s Dr. Temple Grandin Award for the Outstanding Literary Work in Autism

A groundbreaking book on autism, by one of the world’s leading experts, who portrays autism as a unique way of being human—this is “required reading.... Breathtakingly simple and profoundly positive” (Chicago Tribune).

Autism therapy typically focuses on ridding individuals of “autistic” symptoms such as difficulties interacting socially, problems in communicating, sensory challenges, and repetitive behavior patterns. Now Dr. Barry M. Prizant offers a new and compelling paradigm: The most successful approaches to autism don’t aim at fixing a person by eliminating symptoms, but rather seeking to understand the individual’s experience and what underlies the behavior.

“A must-read for anyone touched by autism...Dr. Prizant’s Uniquely Human is a crucial step in promoting better understanding and a more humane approach.” (Associated Press)

Instead of classifying “autistic” behaviors as signs of pathology, Dr. Prizant sees them as part of a range of strategies to cope with a world that feels chaotic and overwhelming. Rather than curb these behaviors, it’s better to enhance abilities, build on strengths, and offer supports that will lead to more desirable behavior and a better quality of life.

“A remarkable approach to autism.... A truly impactful, necessary book” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review), Uniquely Human offers inspiration and practical advice drawn from Dr. Prizant’s four-decade career. It conveys a deep respect for people with autism and their own unique qualities. Filled with humanity and wisdom, Uniquely Human “should reassure parents and caregivers of kids with autism and any other disability that their kids are not broken, but, indeed, special” (Booklist, starred review).

©2015 Childhood Communication Services, Inc. All rights reserved. (P)2022 Simon & Schuster, Inc. All rights reserved.

Have you heard of “uniquely human”?

I am an itinerant SLP and I’m extremely glad this is available on audiobook. This has been such an eye opening , thought provoking compilation of the challenges and successes of autistic individuals and their communication partners. I’ve shared the book and snippets of it with every school and home I’ve visited in the past month.

This will be our family reference book moving forward! 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Dr. Prizant, thank you, thank you, thank you. This book is an absolute game changer in our family. I am the proud grandmother of a uniquely human child. Our fears have melted away. We are now empowered and better able to assist our precious boy with greater love and understanding. Thank you again.
Warmly, -Isabel

Excellent resource! Highly recommend!

I was thoroughly challenged, inspired, and encouraged by this book. I highly recommend this book to anyone involved in the care, support, and empowering of individuals on the autism spectrum. I will continue to use this book as a ready reference tool as a parent of two adopted children on the autism spectrum.

Detailed Examples

My toddler was suspected to have Autism around 18 months and formally diagnosed at 2 years old. We took her to Speech and OT and made some progress, but I still didn't understand what exactly we needed to do to help our child. This book not only described what we were seeing with our child currently, it gave us a heads up on what to expect in the future. It really helped me to understand why she behaves a certain way and how to deal with it. I was so encouraged after listening to this book, I would highly recommend it to anyone who has an Autistic loved one or who just wants to understand Autism better.

Just as amazing as I expected it to be

I am so thankful for all your years of work within our community. Thank you for your thoughtfulness, patience, willingness to learn and then teach others.

Required reading

I read the original book and immediately started following the Uniquely Human podcast. I read this new edition and found the additional information/changes to be great. This book changed my life as the parent of an autistic child. It was the first time I heard someone talk about autism in a way that was hopeful, positive, and respectful. Truly inspiring.

Imperdible

Libro hermoso, simple y profundo en su contenido. Nos enseña cómo el cambio en la mirada puede influir intensamente en las personas autistas, bajo la premisa "Escucha, Observa y Pregunta Porqué ".

Best book on autism I’ve read to date!

Very approachable & eye opening way of looking at autism through the ND mindset. Everyone should read this! Brilliant and thought provoking.

Great Book!

Finally a book about Autism that doesn’t just focus on deficits! But respectfully provides insight into life on the Spectrum.

Insightful

The best book regarding realities of autism and inclusion I have read. Highly recommend for loved ones, teachers herself, and employers of individuals on the autism spectrum.