Since 1997, incoming first-year students at Appalachian State University have been asked to read a book as part of their orientation to the university. By participating in the Common Reading Program, students establish a common experience with other new students that will help develop a sense of community with their new environment and introduce them to a part of the academic life they are beginning at Appalachian. This program is an exciting facet in Appalachian's orientation of new students to life on campus.
The Common Reading Program at Appalachian State is proud to announce the 2023-2024 book selection: Be Different: My Adventures with Asperger's and My Advice for Fellow Aspergians, Misfits, Families, and Teachers.
From the publisher's website, "John Elder Robison is a world-recognized authority on life with autism, and the New York Times bestselling author of Look Me in the Eye, Be Different, and Raising Cubby. Robison is the neurodiversity scholar in residence at the College of William & Mary, and he [served] on the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee, which produces the U.S. government’s strategic plan for autism spectrum disorder research."
In Be Different, "he offers practical advice for anyone who feels “different” on how to improve the weak communication and social skills that keep so many people from taking full advantage of their often remarkable gifts. With his trademark honesty and unapologetic eccentricity, Robison addresses questions like:
• How to read others and follow their behaviors when in uncertain social situations
• Why manners matter
• How to harness your powers of concentration to master difficult skills
• How to deal with bullies
• When to make an effort to fit in, and when to embrace eccentricity
• How to identify special gifts and use them to your advantage
Every person has something unique to offer the world, and every person has the capacity to create strong, loving bonds with their friends and family. Be Different will help readers and those they love find their path to success."
The University Libraries offers the following digital and physical copies:
Be Different: My Adventures with Asperger's and My Advice for Fellow Aspergians, Misfits, Families, and Teachers- (eAudiobook) available via the Overdrive (Libby) platform. Users have access to three digital copies, which can be borrowed in 7, 14, and 21-day options.
Be Different: My Adventures with Asperger's and My Advice for Fellow Aspergians, Misfits, Families, and Teachers- (eBook) available via the Overdrive (Libby) platform. Users have access to three digital copies, which can be borrowed in 7, 14, and 21-day options.
Be Different: My Adventures with Asperger's and My Advice for Fellow Aspergians, Misfits, Families, and Teachers - physical copies available on the University Libraries Course Reserves shelf (1st floor of Belk Library, ask at the main service desk).
Or for questions or access issues, please get in touch with a librarian!
The 2023-2024 Common Read LibGuide was made with the help of Dr. Rebekah Cummings, instructor of the First Year Seminar, Autism: A Broad Spectrum.
