38 pages • 1 hour read
Born on a Blue Day
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Book Brief
256
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
United Kingdom • 1980s
2006
Adult
16+ years
1170L
Super Short Summary
In Born on a Blue Day, Daniel Tammet, an autistic savant with epilepsy and synesthesia, narrates his journey from childhood to adulthood, highlighting his unique perceptions and extraordinary talents in mathematics and languages. Vividly recounting struggles and triumphs, Tammet shares his path to independence, including building a life with his partner and achieving career success. The book discusses sensitive topics, including emotional difficulties and sexual orientation.
Informative
Contemplative
Inspirational
Emotional
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
24,870 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Many reviews praise Born on a Blue Day as a profound memoir offering insight into the mind of an autistic savant. Daniel Tammet's narrative is lauded for its clarity and authenticity, though some critics note a lack of emotional depth. Overall, the book is celebrated for its enlightening perspective on synesthesia and autism, though not without minor criticisms regarding its emotional resonance.
Who Should Read Born on a Blue Day?
Born on a Blue Day by Daniel Tammet captivates readers interested in the unique perspectives of individuals with autism and savant syndrome. Fans of Temple Grandin’s Thinking in Pictures or Oliver Sacks’ An Anthropologist on Mars will appreciate Tammet’s introspective and enlightening memoir.
24,870 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Tammet’s Parents
Tammet’s Parents
Supportive and understanding figures who provided care for Daniel during his upbringing, despite facing challenges like the father's mental illness and raising a large family.
Lee
Lee
Daniel's closest brother in age, who helped him with tasks such as checking calculations and engaging in activities like chestnut collecting.
Steven
Steven
Another of Daniel's brothers who is also on the autistic spectrum, whom Daniel hopes to inspire with his own experiences.
Neil
Neil
Daniel's partner, a computer programmer who provides daily support, patience, and understanding to Daniel, significantly impacting his life positively.
256
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
United Kingdom • 1980s
2006
Adult
16+ years
1170L
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