Be Different

John Elder Robison didn't learn why he was different until he was 40 years old, when he was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome. By then, he was already a successful businessman with a family and a history of mechanical wizardry, including the designing of exploding guitars for the band KISS. Here Robison delivers his own practical advice for anyone who is different: deal with bullies, learn socially acceptable manners, and open yourself up to be chosen for a friend. Robison's voice is loud, a bit raspy, and almost aggressive, but his tone is also heartfelt and positive. His performance fits together to achieve his mission. His message is that being different allows for a unique contribution to the world; what may be considered weird in adolescence can be eccentric and valuable in adulthood. A.B. (c) AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine