How to Be Human

An unforgettable, unconventional narrative that examines the many ways to be fully human, told by the first young adult with autism to attend Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar.

Reviews

"This tremendous work should be savored; every clearly written chapter offers fresh insight into how to shape a life from the inchoate matter of consciousness. Fleming’s extraordinary journey will inspire any reader weighing what it means to be human in a troubled world." — Kirkus Review (starred review)

“This is a beautiful and astonishing book from a beautiful and astonishing young man. It will inspire you and make you more aware of the inner life of your own mind and that of those around you.  Our world, and each of us in it, could use an autistic circuit breaker at times, and Jory’s book offers us that gift.” —Walter Isaacson, New York Times bestselling author of Steve Jobs and Leonardo da Vinci

"How to Be Human is a profound and thought-provoking work that deepens our understanding of neurodiversity. The autism revolution has been fueled by the voices of “actually autistic” people sharing their experiences and self-reflections, and now, up steps Jory Fleming, who contributes a significant narrative to this burgeoning genre. Jory’s story is set apart by his unique ability to describe his cognitive-emotional processes and relationships in a manner that illuminates the gifts and challenges of being neurodivergent. By doing so, Jory invites each of us to contemplate the uniqueness of our own minds, leading to greater compassion, respect and appreciation for those whose humanity is grounded in a different, but equally authentic reality. A timely and important contribution." —Barry M. Prizant, Ph.D., author of Uniquely Human

"Two choices drive this narrative forward— the curious honesty of Jory Fleming, so remarkably willing to share his innermost thoughts, dreams, worries and challenges,  and the honest curiosity of Lyric Winik, who nudges forward the conversation with sensitivity and respect. What emerges from How To Be Human is a conversation about one autistic mind that ends up revealing much about the universal experience of being a person." — John Donvan, New York Times bestselling co-author with Caren Zucker of In a Different Key