I was always a problem child — often sad, a loner, unable to make friends. My parents sent me to a number of different schools, and I saw a number of different therapists, but none of them had the answers. Asperger’s Syndrome had not yet been “discovered” as a diagnosis in those years. I dropped out of high school in the tenth grade.

Luckily, my Asperger’s gave me a rare insight into electronics. Using that knowledge, I joined a band, which led to a bigger band, which led to a bigger band… I ended up designing special effects guitars for KISS by the late 1970s. From there, I made the leap into a real job as an engineer with a major toy and game company. I moved up the corporate ladder for ten years, when I hit a wall.

from left: Peter Frampton, John Regan, Tex Holmes, Ace Frehley and me.

My Asperger’s — still un-diagnosed but alive and well in me — kept me from fitting into the corporate world.

I quit my job. I began fixing Mercedes and Land Rover cars in my driveway. I never had to worry about fitting in with the world of machines. Soon, I was immersed in them.

From that beginning, J E Robison Service grew into one of the most successful independent repair businesses in New England. We specialize in Mercedes, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Rolls Royce and Bentley motor car work. Our company is known nationwide for our restoration and customization work, especially on Land Rover, Rolls Royce, and Bentley vehicles.

One day, a therapist with a lust for Land Rovers walked in the door at JE Robison Service, and we became friends. After studying me closely, he introduced me to Asperger's Syndrome, and the knowledge changed my life forever. It took some time, and a lot of hard work, but a loser kid became a winner adult.

With the publication of Look Me in the Eye, I've started off on a new career. I am currently hard at work on my next book, and I've been amazed to learn I'm in demand as a speaker.

In addition, I have started working with Elms College to develop their graduate program in autism and Asperger's.