Born with autism, Temple and Sean now famously live successful social lives. However, their paths were quite different. Temple's logical mind controlled her social behavior. She interacted with many adults and other children, experiencing varied social situations. Logic informed her decision to obey social rules and avoid unpleasant consequences. Sean's emotions controlled his social behavior. Baffled by social rules, isolated and friendless, he made up his own, and applied them to others. When they inevitably broke his rules, he felt worthless and unloved. Both Temple and Sean ultimately came to terms with the social world and found their places in it. Whether you are a person with autism, a caregiver in the autism community, or just someone interested in an outsider view of society, their powerful stories will enthrall and enlighten you. This is the 2nd edition and the first edition of Unwritten Rules of Social Engagement was the Silver Award Winner in the 2005 ForeWord Book of the Year Awards!

A new look at this classic! When first published, this book was a groundbreaking look from inside the mind of a person with autism. The dual autobiography is written in point-counterpoint style by Sean and his mother, Judy. Together, they chronicled his young life and the effects of autism on him and his family. In this updated edition, we learn that Sean has become a successful news reporter, has kept a lasting relationship with his girlfriend, and no longer views autism as a disability.