This memoir is noteworthy for a few good reasons. Firstly, it’s written by the older brother of Augusten Burroughs, who famously chronicled his mixed-up childhood in the bestsellingRunning With Scissors. John was considerably older than his brother, and got the better end of this childhood stick, but the book still offers extra insights that will intrigue fans. Secondly, and more importantly, this is a rare memoir about living with Asperger’s Syndrome. Asperger’s is a form of autism, characterised by a lack of social intuition (and therefore, limited social skills), an inward focus, and an obsessive focus on particular interests, which often reflect areas of unusual talent. Robison’s special interest is in the way things work, which led him to an early career as a musical engineer, touring with bands like KISS (he designed exploding guitars and other special eff ects for the band). This book is touching, often very funny, and provides valuable insight into how the mind of someone with Asperger’s work. Highly recommended.

Jo Case is Editor of Readings Monthly