Aspergers+Syndrome


 * The Curious Incident of the dog in the night time by Mark Haddon. **

Asperger's Syndrome is apart of the Austism spectrum (Hughes,2009). Hughes (2009) describes people with Aspergers Syndrome are often 'characterised' by one or more of the following:

- Eccentric or repetitive behaviour - Communication difficulties - Limited but almost obsessive interests - Problems with social skills - Exceptional Focus - High Intelligence - Extraordinary talents in one or more areas.

Therefore Asperger's Syndrome is on "the high functioning end of the Autistic Spectrum" (Hughes, 2009).

This novel is written in first person from the perspective of Christopher, a 15 year old boy who has Asperger's Syndrome. Throughout the novel Christophers' next door neighbours dog dies and he becomes a main suspect into the investigation.

The novel also explains that Christopher faces many day to day challenges. Some examples of these challenges are:

- Christopher cannot stand human contact. Instead of Christopher and his father hugging, they must raise a hand each and almost touch, -If Christopher is eating dinner and two food items touch (for example peas get into his mashed potato) he cannot eat his meal, - Christopher takes everything that is said literally and cannot understanding peoples emotions. - Christopher also lives with his father who often becomes frustrated with Christophers behaviours.

**Who could use this book:** This Novel could be used for students in upper highschool levels to study as a set text.

**Expectations of using this novel in the classroom**: This novel provides an easy and interesting read that can provide students with the understanding of how people may view the world differently to them. This novel can also be recommended for students who have Asperger's Syndrome who may connect with the novel on a personal level. I would also recommend this novel for any teacher to read who has a student in their class with Asperger's Syndrome as the first person perspective of the book provides personal details about Asperger's Syndrome therefore giving you a better insight into your students' mind.


 * References:**

Haddon, M. (2003). The curious Incident of the Dog in the Night- Time.

Hughes, B.G.R. (2009). Understanding our gifted and comples minds:Intellgence, Asperger's syndrome, and learning disabilities at MT. //Gifted//.151,27-29.