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Caged in chaos ISBN: 9781843103479
Biggs, Victoria
Published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2005
Victoria Biggs is a talented 16 year old. She is also severely dyspraxic. In this very well-written book, full of wit, humour and practical advice, she tells us of her early years before she was diagnosed and of the difficulties she experienced. Her explanation of dyspraxia and its relationship to other autistic spectrum conditions is clear and interesting, and she uses her own 'adventures' as well as quotes from other dyspraxic youngsters to make clear the hurt that being considered awkward and 'dim' can bring on. But her positive attitude and her sensible coping strategies (as well as a lot of hard work) have made her into a lively, bubbly teenager who sees herself as 'hearing another drummer'. Chapters on coping at home, at school, in exams, with bullying, with relationships, and with growing up are detailed and honest - as is a chapter on getting a diagnosis. Her advice, given with so much sheer fun, will be invaluable to fellow dyspraxics, and this is one young lady to watch. We will hear more from her in the future I feel sure. There is a good list of organisations at the end of the book. Buy from good bookshops or from Amazon, or from the publisher at www.jkp.com.
Age: 11+