Girls and Women with an ASD, Contribute to Our New Book!

By Shana Nichols, PhD

December 29, 2010

Happy holidays and happy New Year everyone!

I am the lead author of the book Girls Growing Up on the Autism Spectrum, which many of you are familiar with, in part because of your contributions of your experiences to the book. Again, thank you! I am currently writing a companion book for pre-teen and teen girls themselves to read titled A Girl’s Guide to Growing Up on the Autism Spectrum. My co-author, Brigid Rankowski, is a college student with AS. This book is under contract with Jessica Kingsley Publishers, and at this time we are looking for short contributions from girls and women.

If you (as an adult on the spectrum), or your daughter would be interested in sharing an experience, or advice related to growing up as a female with an ASD, I would love to hear from you. We are looking for 50-200 word narratives about any topic related to growing up. Some examples include:

  • What it’s like being a girl/woman with an ASD
  • Puberty
  • Having your period; gynecological exams
  • Getting a first bra
  • Friendships and mean girls; bullying; fitting in
  • Eating issues
  • Self-esteem and feeling good about yourself
  • Being true to who you are
  • Mood and anxiety
  • Sexuality
  • Relationships and dating
  • Media, popularity
  • Life goals and pursuing your dreams
  • Special interests

We are also interested in poetry and possibly art work.

As before, contributions can be anonymous (e.g., “a 16-year-old girl with Aspergers”), or can be attributed by name.  Please contact me at [email protected] for more information or to submit a narrative. A short release of information form from the publishers will need to be signed. Please share with anyone you think might be interested in contributing.

Thank you again for fostering understanding of the experiences of girls and women with ASDs!

I look forward to hearing from you,

Shana Nichols, PhD