In this memoir, clinical psychologist James P. Manning reflects on moments in his life in light of his autistic diagnosis as an adult.

Growing up in England during the 1970s, a time when autism received scant attention, Manning often struggles with recognizing social cues. He doesn’t understand, for instance, that a story told at home by his family that disparages others shouldn’t be repeated publicly. Over time, he observes other people’s behaviors in social situations and assembles internal rules to guide his conduct.

He holds a series of jobs after graduating secondary school before an employment counselor suggests he consider psychology, an appealing field given his desire to understand people. He then pursues an education and career in clinical psychology. Challenges remain, however, as his interactions with others can appear robotic, and he struggles to display empathy.

While immersed in a clinical training component of his doctoral program, his supervisor tells him she believes he’s autistic. Although initially fearful of her diagnosis, he begins to accept that “I couldn’t change the wiring, but I might be able to change how I interacted with it.”

Manning writes in a matter-of-fact manner, relating past incidents illustrative of his autism and propensity to reconsider his comportment, while accepting responsibility for his actions. This lends candor, but recounted episodes frequently appear disjointed and even mundane, such as when he writes of a childhood friend resenting his winning at chess or a co-worker possibly holding a grudge after he doesn’t offer him tea. He also never describes how he later “stopped fighting myself,” a topic meriting greater attention.

Nevertheless, Manning’s acceptance of his neurotype underpins important takeaways: that he came to terms with his differences and that autism didn’t preclude him from achieving his goal. He includes notes and a bibliography for those wishing to dig deeper into topics raised here.

Ultimately, this is an authentic, if sometimes prosaic, memoir of self-acceptance that those grappling with neurodivergencies might appreciate.

Also available in hardcover and ebook.