I originally bought this book a few years ago when my now 7 year old daughter was being assessed at the central valley regional center for autism. I was flustered, devastated, and heart broken. I knew that I needed to get something that would really guide me into the world of autism and answer as many questions of mine that it could. This book was one of the many resources that I turned to, to save my sanity as my child was being assessed at the center. My eldest daughter was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome and in the end my now 7 year old was diagnosed with severe ADHD, learning disabilities, and expressive language disorder. Even though my children did not end up with the traditional sense of autism, this book was still incredibly useful. Today I still refer to this book, since many symptoms of ADHD are similar to high functioning autism. I feel as a parent of a two special needs children that I am obligated to recommend this book to other parents. It is worth your time and money and it will set your mind at ease as you struggle through the diagnostic process. ( )