Like Colour to the Blind

Like Colour to the Blind: Soul Searching and Soul Finding is a book written by Donna Williams, an Australian author, who was diagnosed with autism. The book, published in 1996, is the third installment in Williams' autobiographical series about her life with autism, following Nobody Nowhere (1992) and Somebody Somewhere (1994). Like Colour to the Blind delves deeper into Williams' personal journey of self-discovery and her evolving understanding of her autism, relationships, and the world around her.

Synopsis

Like Colour to the Blind continues the narrative of Donna Williams' life, focusing on her experiences and challenges as she navigates adulthood with autism. The book explores Williams' relationship with her husband, Chris, who also has a diagnosis on the autism spectrum. Together, they embark on a journey of mutual understanding, learning, and growth, which challenges both the conventional perceptions of autism and their personal preconceptions about identity and communication.

Williams uses her personal story to discuss broader themes related to autism, including the complexity of sensory experiences, the nuances of social interaction, and the importance of self-acceptance. Her narrative is interspersed with reflections on the nature of autism and its impact on her perception of the world, offering insights into the autistic experience that are both deeply personal and universally relevant.

Themes

The book addresses several key themes, including:

• Autism and Identity: Williams explores the intersection of autism with personal identity, challenging the notion that autism is something to be 'overcome'. Instead, she presents it as an integral part of her self that shapes her view of the world.
• Communication and Relationship: The book delves into the complexities of communication and relationship-building within the context of autism, highlighting the unique challenges and rewards of connecting with others.
• Sensory Perception: Williams provides a vivid description of her sensory experiences, offering readers a glimpse into the heightened and often overwhelming sensory world of someone on the autism spectrum.
• Self-Discovery and Acceptance: A recurring theme in Williams' work, the journey towards self-discovery and acceptance is central to the narrative, reflecting her evolving understanding of herself and her autism.

Reception

Like Colour to the Blind has been praised for its honest and insightful portrayal of life with autism. Readers and critics alike have lauded Williams for her ability to articulate the complexities of the autistic experience, making the book a valuable resource for individuals on the autism spectrum, their families, and professionals in the field of autism research and support.

Impact

The book has contributed significantly to the discourse on autism, particularly in terms of personal narratives and autobiographical accounts. Williams' work has been instrumental in increasing awareness and understanding of autism, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for a more nuanced and empathetic approach to autism spectrum disorders.

See Also

• Autism spectrum
• Autobiography
• Sensory processing disorder