A Different Kettle of Fish: A Day in the Life of a Physics Student with Autism

by Michael Barton

“I'm looking at the Solar System display when I hear a child close by shouting at his mum, to which she replies 'No need to bite my head off!' I've heard of laughing your head off (to laugh a lot) and even biting your tongue (to be quiet) but biting someone's head off puts a rather more vivid picture into my mind!” During a trip to London, taking in tube announcements, guitar shops, and the Science Museum Michael Barton explores and explains the confusing “neurotypical” world of contradictory signage, hidden meanings and nonsensical figures of speech. His quirky and comic illustrations bring to life the journey from the comfort of his familiar university surroundings into the hectic bustle of central London. A fun and enlightening read for friends, family, caring professionals and anyone interested in an alternative viewpoint on the world. Sure to “strike a chord” with other day trippers on the autism spectrum.

Genres: Autistic Spectrum Disorder

80 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[Isabel Fontes · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Different Kettle of Fish provides insight into how idiomatic language can be challenging for those on the autism spectrum to comprehend.

Michael Barton's detailed and insightful account of his day trip to London offers a vivid and unique perspective into his world, shedding light on the numerous challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.
Through his experiences, we gain a better understanding of the physical and social barriers that hinder their participation in society.
This realisation can inspire us to create a more compassionate, accommodating, and inclusive society that benefits everyone, not just those with disabilities.


The book is excellent, with amazing illustrations, and provides an insightful opportunity to see the world from someone else's perspective.

[Angela C · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this for work as it’s a book I’ll be teaching to my year 4 kiddos. I think it’s a great introduction to Autism via literature, and I can imagine my class having really positive discussions as a result. I thought the author did an excellent job of explaining different kinds of speech and how he views/works to interpret them.

[Lots · Rating 4 out of 5]

highly recommend to anyone who want to understand autism more

[Andréa · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Different Kettle of Fish is a fascinating look into how our everyday language--replete with idioms, unspecific statements, and ambiguous questions--is perceived by, and confuses, people on the autism spectrum. Michael Barton has a skill for easily relating why common phrases that the "neurotypical" person has no problem understanding are actually quite confusing for him and others with autism. Barton's illustrations visually summarize the concepts that spring to mind for him when he hears idioms.

At less than 100 pages, A Different Kettle of Fish is a quick read, taking us through just one day of Barton's life. The book is broken down into smaller sections, which makes it easy to read in short bursts or to skim through.

My only criticism is that the illustrations leave something to be desired. While I appreciate that they were done by Barton himself, a more skilled illustrator would have been able to convey even more humor and nuances in the illustrations.

Note: I received a digital galley of this book through NetGalley.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good look into the daily life of an autistic uni student and tackles both how it is to live with autism and also the barriers autistic folks face on a regular basis that neurotypical folks might not even consider, such as translating idioms and oddly crafted signage. I would recommend this as a non-fiction read for young adults who want to hear the voice of someone that is real and actually autistic, not just a fictional character in a story.