Ways to Read Digitally:
Libby: App by Overdrive - Requires a Library Card
Book Bub - Lists of free or on-sale books through Kindle and other sources.
Audible - Audiobooks on a subscription basis.
This reading list is recommended by a Licensed counselor and is designed to be an ever-growing and changing suggestion. If you have books that have helped you or have impacted your mental health, make sure to let us know so that we can recommend them to others.
"Why would a cow lick a tractor? Why are collies getting dumber? Why do dolphins sometimes kill for fun? How can a parrot learn to spell? How did wolves teach man to evolve? Temple Grandin draws upon a long, distinguished career as an animal scientist and her own experiences with autism to deliver an extraordinary message about how animals act, think, and feel. She has a perspective like that of no other expert in the field, which allows her to offer unparalleled observations and groundbreaking ideas. People with autism can often think the way animals think, putting them in the perfect position to translate "animal talk." Grandin is a faithful guide into their world, exploring animal pain, fear, aggression, love, friendship, communication, learning, and, yes, even animal genius. Animals in Translation will forever change the way we think about animals.
Includes a Behavior and Training Troubleshooting Guide."
"This intimate memoir reveals the woman inside one of autism’s most prominent figures, Jennifer O'Toole. At the age of 35, Jennifer was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, and for the first time in her life, things made sense. Now, she exposes the constant struggle between carefully crafted persona and authentic existence, editing the autism script with wit, candor, passion, and power. Her journey is one of reverse-self-discovery not only as an Aspie but - more importantly - as a thoroughly modern woman.
"Beyond being a memoir, Autism in Heels is a love letter to all women. It’s a conversation starter, a game-changer, and a firsthand account of what it is to walk in Jennifer's shoes (especially those iconic red stilettos).
"Whether it's bad perms or body image, sexuality or self-esteem, Jennifer's journey is as much a human journey as one on the spectrum. Because autism looks a bit different in pink, most girls and women who fit the profile are not identified, facing years of avoidable anxiety, eating disorders, volatile relationships, self-harm, and stunted independence. Jennifer has been there, too. Autism in Heels takes that message mainstream.
"From her own struggles and self-discovery, she has built an empire of empowerment, inspiring women the world over to realize they aren't mistakes. They are misunderstood miracles."
"Ever since he came out as autistic, Joe Biel has been contacted by people wanting to share their stories and ask questions. The most common question by far is: How do I find a romantic partner?
Dr. Faith G. Harper, author of Unf*ck Your Brain and Unf*ck Your Intimacy, joins autistic publisher and author Joe Biel to offer hard-won guidance on a wide range of topics about friendships, dating, and romance and answer a ton of questions. What do you want out of a relationship? What is the difference between flirting and harassment? How do you have a fun date and get to know someone when eye contact and prolonged conversation aren’t your strengths? How do you change a casual acquaintance into friendship or dating? How do you express your needs and make sure you’re hearing your partner when they express theirs? How do you maintain a healthy, happy long-term relationship?
"Autistic listeners will find valuable answers and perspectives in this book, whether they are just getting ready to jump into dating, are seeking to forge closer friendships, or are looking to improve an existing partnership or marriage."
"Armond doesn’t want to go to Felicia’s birthday party. Parties are noisy, disorganized, and smelly—all things that are hard for a kid with Autism. Worst of all is socializing with other kids. But with the support of Felicia and her mom, good friends who know how to help him, he not only gets through the party, but also has fun. When his mom picks him up, Armond admits the party was not easy, but he feels good that he faced the challenge—and that he’s a good friend. A great book for anyone to learn about coping with autism or Aspergers."
"Have you ever wondered what makes a kite fly or a boat float? Have you ever thought about why snowflakes are symmetrical or why golf balls have dimples? Have you ever tried to make a kaleidoscope or build a pair of stilts?
"In Calling All Minds, Temple Grandin explores the ideas behind all of those questions and more. She delves into the science behind inventions, the steps various people took to create and improve upon ideas as they evolved, and the ways in which young inventors can continue to think about and understand what it means to tinker, to fiddle, and to innovate. And laced throughout it all, Temple gives us glimpses into her own childhood tinkering, building, and inventing.
"More than a blueprint for how to build things, in Calling All Minds, Temple Grandin creates a blueprint for different ways to look at the world. And more than a call to action, she gives a call to imagination and shows listeners that there is truly no single way to approach any given problem - but that an open and inquisitive mind is always key."
"This updated and expanded edition considers the continuing dismal employment statistics for individuals with ASD. The authors take an in-depth look at entrepreneurship. Using real-life examples, they point out that many of the unique characteristics of individuals on the autism spectrum lend themselves well to entrepreneurial ventures.
"The book explores many unnoticed aspects of vocational rehabilitation programs that provide job training and placement for people with disabilities, as well as Social Security Administration programs that offer vocational assistance. Employment figures and prospects have been updated, and new jobs have been added that are well suited for those on the spectrum."
"Temple Grandin offers the world yet another great work, an inspiring and informative book that offers both hope and encouragement. In this audiobook, Temple presents the personal success stories of 14 unique individuals that illustrate the extraordinary potential of those on the autism spectrum.
"One of Temple’s primary missions is to help people with autism, Asperger’s syndrome, and ADHD tap into their hidden abilities. Temple chose these contributors from a wide variety of different skill sets to show how it can be done."
"Empowering strategies for anyone who works with children and teens on the spectrum.
Internationally best-selling writer and autist Temple Grandin joins psychologist Debra Moore in presenting nine strengths-based mindsets necessary to successfully work with young people on the autism spectrum. Examples and stories bring the approaches to life, and detailed suggestions help listeners put them to practical use.
"Temple Grandin shares her own personal experiences and anecdotes from parents and professionals who have sought her advice, while Debra Moore draws on more than three decades of work as a psychologist with kids on the spectrum and those who love and care for them. So many people support the lives of these kids, and this book is for all of them: teachers; special education staff; mental health clinicians; physical, occupational, and speech therapists; parents; and anyone interacting with autistic children or teens."
"What are the aerodynamics of skipping stones or the physics of making sandcastles? Do birds use GPS to navigate their migratory routes?
"In this book, Dr. Temple Grandin, an inventor and world-renowned scientist, introduces readers to geologists, astrophysicists, oceanographers, and many other scientists who unlock the wonders of the natural world. She shares her childhood experiences and observations, whether on the beach, in the woods, working with horses, or gazing up at the night sky. This book explores all areas of nature and gives readers the tools to discover even more on their own.
"With forty projects to give readers a deeper understanding of the world around them, from the depths of space to their own backyard, this is a perfect read for budding scientists, inventors, and creators!"
"Are you struggling with social anxiety and a lack of confidence in yourself prevents you from enjoying social relations? Would you like to learn how to make people like you and approach strangers at social gatherings? Do you know the rules for a successful dating or a public speech?Are you able to resolve conflicts between people?
"Some people are just naturally better at relating to other people, but this doesn’t mean you can’t improve a great deal.
"You don’t need to let that fear control you, because you are not helpless against it.
Being social is a skill that can be learned and improved through practice.
If you’ve made mistakes before, you’re not stuck. You can improve, and this book will help you in that process.
"Whether you struggle significantly in social situations, or you’re looking to brush up on proper techniques, Social Skills Guidebook will give you the tools to take your social ability to the next level, and vastly improve your life as a result.
"In Social Skills Guidebook, you encounter a comprehensive guide to improving your social skills. Starting from the core mindsets and values one must hold, all the way to the practical and concrete.
"Topics covered will include:
how your attitudes turn into behaviors;
how to challenge counterproductive thinking;
how to change your habits and develop skills;
how to meet people and build genuine relationships;
how to reach out to strangers;
how to master the art of small talk;
how to date successfully;
how to be successful at public speaking;
how to read nonverbal signals.
And much more!
"Even if nobody can turns you into an incredible people’s magnet or hypnotic influencer, Dr. Bold will explain scientifically where you’re wrong and how to correct yourself.
Even if you are a late-bloomer in developing your interpersonal skills and your social intelligence, it’s time to change.
"No magic. You have to listen carefully and do the exercises, you will get out of this workbook what you put into it!
"This is not just another "ultimate guide”, like so many videos on YouTube, but a "workbook", intended as a scientific tool for those who have decided to improve themselves through exercise."
"Temple Grandin, Ph.D., is a gifted animal scientist who has designed one third of all the livestock-handling facilities in the United States. She also lectures widely on autism - because Temple Grandin is autistic, a woman who thinks, feels, and experiences the world in ways that are incomprehensible to the rest of us.
"In this unprecedented book, Grandin delivers a report from the country of autism. Writing from the dual perspectives of a scientist and an autistic person, she tells us how that country is experienced by its inhabitants and how she managed to breach its boundaries to function in the outside world.
What emerges in Thinking in Pictures is the document of an extraordinary human being, one who, in gracefully and lucidly bridging the gulf between her condition and our own, sheds light on the riddle of our common identity."
"According to statistics reported by CDC in 2020, 1 in 54 children in the USA were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in 2016. The latest statistics in the UK show that there are 700,000 autistic diagnoses. It is suggested that boys are four times more likely to get a diagnosis of autism than girls.
"Autism does not discriminate; it affects all ethnicities and socioeconomic groups. Symptoms can be slight to severe and everything in between. Getting the diagnosis and intervention early is better, however, unfortunately, this does not happen for all families.
Book one provides information about ASD diagnosis. Book two offers information and tips in for the different areas of potty training and helping your autistic child learn and practice their personal hygiene skills.
"In book one:
Learn about the ASD diagnosis process
Learn to create routines that you and your child can easily manage
Discover simple ways to help your child develop their early interaction skills
Tips and tricks to manage your child’s anxiety
Learn about different types of speech/play therapy you can do at home
"In book two:
The importance of potty training
Is your toddler ready for potty training?
Common hurdles you may encounter and their solutions
How to develop independence with personal hygiene
Teeth cleaning, nail cutting, bathing, hair brushing, and more
"In the collection, you are getting two books that focus on a wide range of issues you might be facing and need help with. My next book will focus on the delays and disorders in speech and langue development and the therapies you can do at home.
"In book one, you will also be able to access a free List of items you may need for your ASD child to make life a little easier and, you’ll be able to access a free step-by-step picture guide for potty training from a link in book two."
"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."
"Born with autism, both Temple Grandin and Sean Barron now live famously successful social lives. However, their paths were quite different. Temple's logical mind controlled her social behavior. She interacted with many adults and other children, experiencing varied social situations. Logic informed her decision to obey social rules and avoid unpleasant consequences. Sean's emotions controlled his social behavior. Baffled by social rules, isolated and friendless, he made up his own, and applied them to others. When they inevitably broke his rules, he felt worthless and unloved.
"Both Temple and Sean ultimately came to terms with the social world and found their places in it. Whether you are a person with autism, a caregiver in the autism community, or just someone interested in an outsider view of society, their powerful stories will enthrall and enlighten you."
"Dr. Temple Grandins voice of experience is back to give parents and teachers specific, practical advice on helping young people on the autism spectrum. This collection of articles, written from 2000-present as an exclusive column in the national award-winning magazine, Autism Aspergers Digest, offers Temples invaluable personal and professional insights, from inside the world of autism, about autism. Temple voices her views on a wide variety of topics ranging from the nonverbal child to social functioning, early intervention to adult issues. The articles have been updated and Temple has added fresh commentary on the topics."
See Also: Anger Management, Biographies Boundaries, Codependency, Communication, Coping Skills, Depression, Facing Adversity, Radical-Acceptance, Relationships, Work Related
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Funds go to furthering the reach of Mental Health.