Book Review: The Other Half of Asperger Syndrome - Maxine C. Aston | Lara Pass

The Other Half of Asperger Syndrome
- Maxine C. Aston
The National Autistic Society
First Published 2001

Maxine Aston has explored the relationships of adults with Asperger Syndrome as part of her academic research, as a qualified couples councellor specializing in this area, and from her own personal relationship experience. She knows what she is writing about. She uses quotations and real life examples to illustrate her points and  has a compassionate understanding of both perspectives. Her insight is extraodinary and her positive attitude and strategies for successful relationships make this an essential guide for couples and counsellors. - Dr. Tony Attwood. 
**** - 4 Stars
This book is brilliant. Although the content of the book is, admittedly, a little grim, it is extremely informative and touches on each aspect of Aspergeres Syndrome just enough.
The delicate way in which this was written is perfect and it is plain to see that Maxine Aston is sympathetic to this particular subject which makes it easier to read, I suppose.
The only reason I gave this four stars and not five is because the language is a little hard to wrap your head around if you are not an 'academic'. I am aware that this is primarily an academic book but it is also an information book for people that are in a relationship with/have relationships with people with Asperger Syndrome and I think in that respect, this book is lacking in identifiable language but otherwise, an amazing read and very informative. If you know someone with Asperges, this will really help you out! 4/5 Stars.

Book Review: The Lost Symbol – Dan Brown | Lara Pass

**** - 4 Stars

This book is just ridiculous and I loved it. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown is one of the most interesting books I have ever read. I loved the writing style, I loved the story, and I just loved the whole thing… Dan Brown is a very clever writer and – I presume – a very clever person full stop. I enjoyed this book so much. The references to Ancient Greek Mythology and different religions really made it interesting for me and I enjoyed trying to work out all the different clues etc., on the Masonic Pyramid. It was a very fun read.

As a classics student, reading a book like this makes classics all the more fun and enjoyable. It's nice to read a book that is so heavily influenced by Ancient Greece and their myths and beliefs and be able to enjoy it. (i.e. be analysing The Odyssey/The Iliad – Homer) The references to Masonic heritage etc., was really interesting to read too. I loved this book very much. My only problem is that it was a bit too long for me. Probably because I am always busy at the moment and couldn't find the time to read it properly.

The twist at the end was something I really didn't see coming and I thought of a hundred different possibilities. It was very simple and obvious but very effective as it was so simple and obvious, no-one would have guessed it. I look forward to reading more of Dan Brown's work in the future as I find his work very entertaining and enjoyable to read. Thank you Dan Brown for giving us such thought provoking, history filled books! I gave this book 4/5 stars.