"Eating an Artichoke: A Mother's Perspective on Asperger Syndrome"



This book describes in great detail how the author, Echo Fling, is thrown into the overwhelming process of determining her son's difficulties.  Peeling back the layers of an artichoke is how she describes sifting through the behaviors her son exhibits and trying to see what is the heart of the problem.  The author's world spins upside down as her son's preschool teacher calls her in for a meeting to tell her that "something isn't right".

Throughout the book, Echo writes as a parent.  She describes the whirlwind of emotions that goes on through the process of trying to find an appropriate diagnosis.  I felt that she wrote all of the real problems that many families face such as misdiagnosis, difficulties paying for treatments, and what supports are needed for school; to name a few.  I do not think that this book is one of great insight but rather it chronicles the journey of one parent.  It is best to not buy this book with the expectations of strategies and interventions but rather a description of her life.  I know so many parents that felt their child was being described in the book since there were so many similarities.  The fact that there are not technical terms but rather real, raw feelings is comforting.  It is a reassuring read for parents to know they are not alone.  As a professional, I joined in the laughter and tears as I felt the situations described in her writing.  If anything it humbled me more for the obstacles that all families face.

-Abby