Published on 12, July, 2020
I wondered if anyone had read Melanie Sykes’ autobiography and whether you related, especially if you’re a woman with both ASD/ADHD? I had mixed feelings about it but I think she’s the first public autistic woman that seemed similar to me (as in, can ‘perform’ well socially, but crumbles behind the scenes). However, I also find celebrity culture at odds with an autistic world (hence her difficulties), but I think I would have run from the public eye as soon as possible. It must be incredibly hard if your special interest involves a lot of people. I related to her nativity and drive and her quest for the truth in things.
I also wondered if anyone had read any other autobiographies that gave you a different perspective of autistic experiences?
I haven't read Melanie Sykes' book but I did read Fern Brady's. I found it really helpful to hear from someone who was the same age as me with some similar experiences (meltdowns, working class background, high academic achiever, queer) and when it came to things where our experience differs I felt like I could understand her reasons for making certain choices because of those other things being so similar.
She's also very funny, as you'd expect from a comedian- there are parts of her book that made me laugh out loud.
Oh that sounds good, I’ve added it to my list!