As a parent who raised an autistic daughter through much of the later history Silverman describes, I loved this book. The early history of diagnosis and treatment was fascinating. Each time he delved into the background or quoted a leading expert from the field, I felt like I was saying hello to an old friend. Like many desperate parents, I met these people at conferences, read their books, tried some of their techniques, and took hope from the smallest "improvements" in my child's behavior. The earliest history of abuse, neglect, and institutionalization of autistics broke my heart. I was aware, but Silverman brought it home with his graphic descriptions and in depth anecdotes of real people. Having grown up clumsy, socially awkward, and a SF fan, I can only shudder and be grateful my gifts outweighed my deficits in that awful time. 
 My favorite part of the book was the last three chapters where the author delved into the more recent activities of autistic adults as they took (and are still taking) control of the tools available to them to build their own communities and advocate for more services, supports, and tolerance. I came to the conclusion early that my daughter would thrive in a more accepting environment that built on her strengths, rather than focusing on "fixing" her. Autistics all along the spectrum have unique gifts to contribute to society...if we only let them. 
 I highly recommend this book to anyone who has a relative or friend on the spectrum or is interested in the disability rights movement. Frankly, anyone interested in building a more inclusive society would benefit from the insights in this book. Thank you, Mr. Silberman, for taking on the monumental task of documenting the legacy of autism and executing it with thoroughness and sensitivity. I'm looking forward to a world that values neurodiversity. 
 Note: I received an advanced reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.