Life on the Bridge - by Kaelynn Partlow (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

The forthcoming hardcover and digital audio editions will feature new material, and a new introduction from Cian O'Clery, director of Netflix's hit series Love on the Spectrum!

From Autistic Advocate, Love on the Spectrum cast member, and therapist Kaelynn Partlow, a warm, personal, and practical guide to understanding autism--from behaviors to communication and beyond.

You've heard from autistic authors.

You've heard from therapists.

Now hear from one extraordinary young woman who's both.

Experience autism from the inside out through a rare fusion of professional skill and personal understanding. Reshape what you know about the autism spectrum and increase your ability to give support. Varied perspectives among autistic individuals, their families, and professionals have often been difficult to reconcile. Now, you can bridge that divide with guidance from someone who's lived in multiple worlds. Find immediate, actionable options to build connections, foster communication, navigate challenges, and enhance interactions.

SPECIFIC CONTENT:

Autism. What it is, what it isn't, and what are the resulting misunderstandings across the spectrum?

Communication. Exactly how do you avoid misunderstandings, encourage conversation, and build options for better interaction?

Behavior. Learn about the origin and mechanics of meltdowns, stimming, perseveration, sensory distortion, and other common autistic challenges.

Interaction. The struggles are real: autism-enhanced loneliness, social-skill deficits, goal-setting, and the thorny issues of disability accommodation.

Common Questions. What are DSM-V diagnostic levels and why do they matter? What about therapy and ABA or routes to useful advocacy?

"Loved Kaelynn Partlow's information on ambiguity and communication. She gives lots of practical pointers on how to be more direct and specific when talking to autistic individuals. Vague, open ended questions are not effective communication." -- Temple Grandin, New York Times bestselling author of Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions

"As a rising star in the field, Partlow is poised to become this generation's Temple Grandin." -- Erin R. Hahn, Ph.D., Department Chair and Professor of Psychology, Furman University

Review Quotes

"Loved Kaelynn Partlow's information on ambiguity and communication. She gives lots of practical pointers on how to be more direct and specific when talking to autistic individuals. Vague, open ended questions are not effective communication." -- Temple Grandin, New York Times bestselling author of Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions

"Partlow gives practical advice and tackles today's thorniest issues. The book she was never supposed to be able to write is a must-read for anyone eager to understand autism better. As a rising star in the field, Partlow is poised to become this generation's Temple Grandin." -- Erin R. Hahn, Ph.D., Department Chair and Professor of Psychology, Furman University

"In Life on the Bridge, Kaelynn Partlow provides a unique perspective on autism as an individual who provides services to individuals with autism and who also has autism herself. Her insights into the world of autism provide both a common sense approach and reveal a wisdom well beyond her years. Her analogies and practical recommendations should be read by parents and family members with a loved one on the autism spectrum, as well as by all healthcare workers serving those with autism and anyone who wants to make the world a better place for us all." -- Steven A. Skinner, M.D., President and CEO of the Greenwood Genetic Center

"Kaelynn Partlow beautifully chronicles her journey with autism, moving the reader from empathy to change. Her honest storytelling and practical recommendations have transformed the way our team supports and empowers our students who are on the autism spectrum. Life of the Bridge is a must-read and a call to action." -- Stephanie Seay, Assistant Principal Jesse Boyd Elementary, SC Teacher of the Year

"From a history in family counseling, I know everyone is going to want to get their hands on this book. It contains a wealth of helpful tips for anyone who interacts with an autistic person Analysis from a unique perspective will benefit parents and clinicians alike. Partlow's view is unlike any other, applying immense value from having lived on the same developmental ladder as her clients. Her view is unlike that of any other author, and within these pages she has many lessons to teach us all. You will want to hear what she has to say!" -- Amanda J Gerding, LMSW, Clinical Social Work Therapist and CEO of Lillys Counseling