Carol Turkington

From Booklist
Autism encompasses an array of childhood developmental disabilities including problems with communication, lack of social interaction, and unusual repetitive behaviors. Although it is still poorly understood, in recent decades specialists have noticed an increase in the number of children affected and, consequently, a growing need for pertinent information.

This encyclopedia is among the latest Facts On File titles in the Library of Health and Living series. Turkington is a journalist and medical writer, and Anan is a clinical psychologist. The first half of the volume consists of A-Zdescriptions of more than 300 relevant concepts and terms, while the second half has six appendixes in addition to a section of suggested readings, a glossary, and an index. Three appendixes--"Organizations," "State Autism Organizations," and "Autism Resources by State"--are devoted to agencies and groups that serve as information resources. The remaining appendixes offer "Helpful Web Sites" (very brief), "Collaborative Programs of Excellence in Autism" (studies on the causes of autism), and "Clinical Trials for Autistic Disorders" (studies on treatment and other aspects of autism).

Like many Facts On File titles, this one provides useful information written in an accessible style. It is not really a comprehensive resource but a place to start, and its appendixes on organizations provide much-needed leads for parents and schoolteachers searching for more information. But other sections, especially "Helpful Web Sites" and "Clinical Trials," are somewhat wanting, even as introductions. For example, a mention in the latter appendix of the National Institutes of Health's Web site (ClinicalTrials.gov) would have led readers and potential trial participants to many more current studies than the seven listed here.… (mehr)