In The Fabric of Autism: Weaving the Threads into a Cogent Theory, Judith Bluestone combines her personal autistic experience with academic research and 35 years of clinical practice to craft a unique and compelling view of the phenomenon called autism.

Bluestone’s book is both a significant clinical work and a moving memoir that illuminates the humanity beneath the bewildering facade of autism. Infused with rare, hard-won insights into the etiology of autistic behaviors, this book weaves the various threads of autism into a sensible theory while simultaneously offering practical tools for strengthening the interactive system of body-brain-mind-spirit. Neuroscientific research, knowledge of developmental processes, and clinical outcomes shed light on probable causes of autism.

The Fabric of Autism will take its readers on a riveting journey into the world of individuals whose lives are influenced by ASD, most of whom have achieved significant improvements in their communication, general functionality and quality of life with the help of HANDLE®—Holistic Approach to NeuroDevelopment and Learning Efficiency. The maladaptive behaviors others see as symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bluestone considers the body’s language—its communication system. These behaviors represent core neurodevelopmental weaknesses that respond to consistent, gentle, progressive reorganization through the neuroscientifically sound HANDLE approach. As the creator of HANDLE and the Founder and Clinical/Educational Director of The HANDLE Institute, Bluestone has helped countless individuals with ASD achieve more functional lives.

The Fabric of Autism shows us that compassion, understanding, and intuition can co-exist with neuroscience, as it provides a new view and appreciation of the complex neurological dysfunction labeled autism. It also provides a number of practical suggestions that are helping a growing number of individuals and families in the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, Israel and South Africa to resolve many of their challenges and attain functional, adaptive, responsible lives.

The Fabric of Autism is significant reading particularly for all parents and professionals interested in Autism Spectrum Disorders, and it is valuable for those struggling to understand numerous other disorders of communication and learning.