Autism

Uta Frith is Professor of Cognitive Development at the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College, London. She is the co-author of Autism in History (Blackwell Publishers, 1999).

• Preface to the Second Edition. Acknowledgements.1. What is Autism?.2. The Enchantment of Autism.3. Lessons from History.4. Is there an Autism Epidemic?.5. Mind-reading and Mind-Blindness.6. Autism Aloneness.7. The Difficulty of Talking to Others.8. Intelligence and Special Talent.9. A Fragmented World.10. Sensations and Repetitions.11. Seeing the Brain through a Scanner.12. A Different Brain – A Different Mind.Notes.Index.

"Uta Frith's Autism has been an indispensable reference, an instant classic, since it was first published, and in this new edition it has been radically revised, with striking enrichments and enlargements in almost every chapter, most especially with dramatic new brain imaging studies which clarify the fundamental nature of autism. But it remains a deeply personal book, as moving and delightful as it is authoritative." Oliver Sacks, MD "One of the most recognised names in autism research ... Her [Frith's] book is valuable for educated parents interested in learning about autism in a larger historical context ... enlightening." Library Journal, July 2003 "provides a valuable introduction to contemporary cognitive theories." Sally Bigham, Brunel University, British Journal of Developmental Psychology, Vol.21, Part 3, September 2003 "Uta Frith has long been regarded as one of the leading experts in current autism research and psychological theory in this country ... this second edition presents an easy-to-read and logical journey through autism, from what it is and how it is and has been perceived, through current psychological theory to neurological explanation and practical implications. It is an extremely worthwhile book for anyone who wants a research-led understanding of the psychology of autism, particularly students interested in the topic or parents and professionals who may wish to understand the theories feeding future interventions and current understanding of this complex spectrum of conditions." Fiona J. Scott, Psychological Medicine, Vol. 34, 2004