When Martine was told by a psychiatrist that she has “a very serious form of autism,” she didn’t feel bad about it. In fact, for her, it was like she could finally start writing her own story: “I’m not ‘crazy’; my brain just works differently.”
This understanding is the main theme in the English book “Inside the Autside: a misfit manifesto” (2023) by Martine Mussies from the Netherlands. She takes us on a journey through her life as a bisexual, autistic woman in the Netherlands, showing that autism can teach us a lot about the complexity of the human brain and our society.
Martine shares her experiences using a combination of personal stories, poetry, and scientific insights. This makes her book not only a captivating read but also an important resource for anyone wanting to learn more about autism. By sharing her own challenges and successes, Martine shows how living with autism can be both challenging and enriching. She talks openly about difficulties like sensory overload and the complexity of social interactions but also highlights the resilience and hope present in her story.
“Inside the Autside” goes beyond a personal tale. It calls for more inclusivity, acceptance, and recognizing the positive aspects of neurodiversity. Martine stresses the importance of appreciating the unique talents and perspectives of people with autism, rather than seeing them as individuals who need to be ‘corrected.’
The book is structured around key themes such as the complexity of autism, the influence of neurotypical standards, and the value of autistic experiences. Martine is critical of how autism is often approached in the medical world and society, advocating for an understanding of autism as a natural variation of human existence. She shares from her childhood memories to her adult experiences, moments that are both challenging and beautiful. Martine explains that autism is more than a label and significantly influences a person’s life, but she also emphasizes the unique qualities autistic people bring.
In her book, Martine explores how special interests are not only important for autistic individuals but can also benefit society as a whole. She shares her love for music and art and how these passions have helped her connect with the world around her. The book also discusses various aspects of ‘being social’ and relationships, such as friendship, living together, and dating, all from her unique but nuanced perspective.
“Inside the Autside” is a must-read for anyone interested in a more nuanced understanding of neurodiversity. It offers a unique perspective on living with autism and challenges readers to look beyond stereotypes and prejudices. It invites us to see the world through a different lens, where the diversity of human experience is valued.
Information about Martine Mussies’s book can be found on her website. It is available for purchase on Amazon (in paperback) or through local bookstores with ISBN 979-8866882281.
The European Autist 