I'm an NT, called such by Aspies and NLDers. We are considered neurotypical. I suggest that all of us NT's would benefit by reading this book. In my case, I had a young friend who was having a difficult time going from high school to her first job. Yvona sheds light on page 211 of the book: "(employers) find it puzzling that some smart employees have trouble neatly stapling a bunch of papers together or mailing a letter." At the time, I wondered about such issues and, with a lot of luck and some internet searching, came up with a paper written by Susan Thompson. As I read her account, tears ran down my face. All the years I knew this girl I had thought she had some character flaw. Why else would she be so indifferent to what was obvious to me?
I subscribed to the YahooGroup called NLD-in-Common (see page 310). When I was accepted as a member I posted my customary hello. The first person to respond was Yvona. As time went on, I realized she always accepted new members. She was so giving of herself, telling of her personal job miseries. It was obvious to me that she was a talented writer. When I found she was writing this book, I could hardly wait for it to arrive.
The book tells so much. Finally, I am beginning to "get it." Those with various aspects of learning disabilities are described so vividly that we NT's can begin to get a grip on what makes some people "different," not retarded or lazy or unloving. Ambition, intelligence, honesty, tenacity--those words are more apt.
My little friend? She's employed, doing it her way. I'm hanging in there with her.