Like many others on the autism spectrum, 20-something stand-up comic Michael McCreary has been told by more than a few well-meaning folks that he doesn't "look" autistic. But, as he's quick to point out in this memoir, autism "looks" different for just about everyone with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Diagnosed with ASD at age five, McCreary got hit with the performance bug not much later. During a difficult time in junior high, he started journaling, eventually turning his pain e into something empowering-and funny. He scored his first stand-up gig at age 14, and hasn't looked back.
This unique and hilarious #OwnVoices memoir breaks down what it's like to live with autism for readers on and off the spectrum. Candid scenes from McCreary's life are broken up with funny visuals and factual asides. Funny, You Don't Look Autistic is an invaluable and compelling read for young readers with ASD looking for voices to relate to, as well as for readers hoping to broaden their understanding of ASD.
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[Maybe it was the socks]***
(@AnnickPress, 12 March 2019, 176 pages, ebook, borrowed from @GlasgowLib via @OverDriveLibs #BigLibraryRead)
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I really enjoyed this memoir. I don't know anyone on the spectrum and like most people I have preconceived notions about what people with ASD are like. Clearly, I am all kinds of wrong. This book is very funny at moments as Michael shares anecdotes about the angst of growing up and acting and responding to the world in his own unique way. There are also some sad moments at Michael realises again and again that some people will always treat him different because he has ASD no matter how hard he tries to show how many ways he's just like everyone else. I found this book really moving and humbling at times.
