Reading Look Me in the Eye was like sitting down with someone whose stories are fascinating but occasionally unevenly told. John Elder Robison’s memoir stands out for its unapologetic honesty and a unique perspective on life. His recounting of growing up feeling “different” and his journey toward understanding himself is both compelling and deeply human.
The book’s strength lies in its raw authenticity. Robison doesn’t sugarcoat his experiences, and his anecdotes, ranging from deeply painful to laugh-out-loud funny, create a vivid picture of his life. One of the most memorable moments for me was when he described his childhood interactions with others, saying, “For my part, I assumed the other kids didn’t like me because I was defective. I didn’t know why they didn’t like me, I just knew they didn’t.” That raw self-perception is heartbreaking, and it stayed with me long after I turned the page.
Robison’s career trajectory, from building sound effects for KISS to working with high-tech machinery, is perhaps the most exhilarating part of the book. His passion for tinkering and his ability to see systems and patterns where others might not was inspiring. The story of designing the famous exploding guitars is a high point: “What could be better than building exploding guitars for the greatest rock band in the world?” It’s moments like these where Robison’s joy shines through, and I felt myself smiling alongside him.
However, the book also has its shortcomings. Some sections lack the emotional depth or reflection that could have elevated them. For example, while the narrative about his estrangement from his family is compelling, it occasionally felt more like a recounting of events than an exploration of their deeper significance. I found myself wanting more insight into how these moments shaped him as a person. Similarly, certain anecdotes—though entertaining—dragged on without adding much to the overall narrative arc.
At times, the tone shifts into territory that feels a bit self-congratulatory, which can be jarring. For instance, when he reflects on his successes, he notes, “I don’t think I would have achieved any of this if I had been like other people,” which, while valid, could have been further balanced with more reflection on the challenges and failures that shaped his journey.
That said, Look Me in the Eye offers an invaluable window into a mind that perceives the world in a wonderfully unique way. Robison’s descriptions of his experiences—whether navigating relationships, working on complex machinery, or coming to terms with his differences—are often eye-opening. His ability to recount moments of misunderstanding with both humor and poignancy makes the book accessible and engaging.
Overall, this memoir is a worthwhile read for those interested in stepping into someone else’s shoes and seeing life from a different perspective. While it didn’t fully connect with me on every level, it is a testament to resilience, individuality, and the power of finding your own path. As Robison puts it, “Being different isn’t a bad thing. It means you’re brave enough to be yourself.” That message alone is worth the read.
Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger’s / John Elder Robison, published
September 25, 2007 by Crown, ISBN 9780307395986. The original of this review first appeared on Goodreads.
The European Autist 