Look Me In the Eye by John Elder Robinson is a fascinating memoir by a man who was diagnosed well into adulthood with Asperger syndrome, a form of autism. Through the lens of this diagnosis, Robinson recalls and analyzes his turbulent and fascinating life. From his childhood with an alcoholic father and mentally ill mother, to his time designing special effects guitars for KISS, to the creation of his long-running specialty automotive business, Robinson has successfully navigated the challenges of life, despite the unique way his brain operates. His memoir provides excellent insight into the thinking process of highly articulate individual on the autistic spectrum. This book is a valuable read for anyone interested in understanding more about the high-functioning manifestations of autism.
As a side note, Robinson's only brother is Augusten Burroughs, author of Running With Scissors: A Memoir. As a much younger sibling, Burroughs was left behind in the increasingly bizarre family situation after Robinson left home at 16. His memoir focuses on these years living alone with his parents. Fans of Burroughs' book will appreciate the additional insights into his character and childhood contained in Look Me In The Eye.
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