* Gold Medal Winner in the Psychology / Mental Health Category of the 2011 IPPY Awards * * Silver Medal Winner in the 2010 BOTYA Awards Psychology Category * Savant syndrome is a rare condition in which individuals with developmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorders, have one or more areas of expertise, ability, or brilliance - "islands of genius" - that exist in contrast with their overall limitations. In this fascinating book, Dr. Darold Treffert looks at what we know about this remarkable condition, and at new discoveries that raise interesting questions about the hidden brain potential within us all. Dr. Treffert explores the phenomena of genetic memory - instances in which individuals somehow "know" things they never learned - and sudden genius or "acquired savantism" - where a neuro-typical person unexpectedly and spectacularly develops savant-like abilities following a head injury or stroke. Showing that these phenomena point convincingly towards a reservoir of untapped potential - an inner savant capacity - within us all, he looks both at how savant skills can be nurtured, and how they can help the person who has them, particularly if that person is on the autism spectrum. A central colour section contains the extraordinary artwork of some of the savants who are mentioned in the book. Islands of Genius will intrigue anyone who has ever wondered what makes the mind of a savant tick, as well as clinicians, parents, teachers, therapists, and others who care for, and about, individuals with savant syndrome.

"May's Boy: The Rest of the Story" continues the amazing story of Leslie Lemke, one of less than l00 prodigious savants in the world, and of that group, Leslie is considered one of the most spectacularly musically gifted. Following the success of "May's Boy," Shirlee Monty and the Lemkes (Joe, May and Leslie) traveled throughout the country, responding to the demands for concerts and television appearances. It was a journey of joy, excitement and even the silence of disbelief as May saw audiences lifted to their feet again and again in tribute to her beloved son. Although May Lemke will always be remembered for her powerful love, determination, persistence and unshakeable belief in her foster son, readers of "The Rest of the Story" will discover many other facets of May Lemke's unique personality. They will discover that she was totally uninhibited, clearly unflappable, with a keen sense of humor, overwhelming love of children as well as disabled children and an irrepressible joy of living. Readers will be touched and amused by the captivating stories and anecdotes from chapters like "Getting Started, Extreme Generosity, Incredible Happenings" and "Taping at the Lemkes." It's a Road Show you're unlikely to forget. And it might even be a life-changing experience.