John Elder Robison

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John Robison, individual with Asperger syndrome, autism activist, May 2011

John Elder Robison (born August 13, 1957) is an American author and advocate for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. He is best known for his memoir, Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's, which details his experiences growing up with Asperger syndrome.

Early Life

John Elder Robison was born in Athens, Georgia, and grew up in Hadley, Massachusetts. He is the older brother of Augusten Burroughs, a well-known author. Robison's early life was marked by difficulties in social interactions and understanding social cues, which he later discovered were due to Asperger syndrome.

Career

Robison has had a varied career, including working as an engineer and a sound designer for the band KISS. He later founded his own business, J.E. Robison Service, which specializes in the repair and restoration of high-end European automobiles.

Writing

Robison's first book, Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's, was published in 2007 and became a New York Times Best Seller. The book provides an insightful look into the life of someone with Asperger syndrome and has been praised for its honesty and humor.

He has also written other books, including Be Different: Adventures of a Free-Range Aspergian and Raising Cubby: A Father and Son's Adventures with Asperger's, Trains, Tractors, and High Explosives. These works continue to explore themes related to autism spectrum disorder and provide guidance and support for individuals and families affected by the condition.

Advocacy

Robison is a prominent advocate for the autism community. He serves on the Autism Speaks Science and Treatment Advisory Boards and is a member of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC), which advises the U.S. government on issues related to autism spectrum disorder.

Personal Life

Robison resides in Amherst, Massachusetts, with his family. He continues to write, speak, and advocate for greater understanding and acceptance of individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Bibliography

• Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's (2007)
• Be Different: Adventures of a Free-Range Aspergian (2011)
• Raising Cubby: A Father and Son's Adventures with Asperger's, Trains, Tractors, and High Explosives (2013)
• Switched On: A Memoir of Brain Change and Emotional Awakening (2016)

See Also

• Asperger syndrome
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Augusten Burroughs
• Autism Speaks
• Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee