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My Adventures with Autism
'At the age of 49, after years of wondering why I didn't fit in with the rest of the world, I was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. As I learned about the world of Autism Spectrum Disorder, I discovered I had a lifetime of experiences and knowledge I could share. I wrote and designed this book so that it is easy to read, and to help people understand some of the day-to-day experiences of living - and learning to thrive - with autism.'
With endorsements and accolades from experts in the fields of mental health and Autism Spectrum Disorder, this unique collection of Virginia's real-life stories is designed for those who don't like to look at long, dense sequences of words. Virginia's expressive, funny illustrations and bullet points of text take you on a journey without all the jargon, relating her experiences in a deceptively simple style that will have you laughing, crying and at times recognizing 'Hey, I do that.' Whether you're on the spectrum or not, or just unsure and wondering what's going on for you, there is much in this book about 'human' for all readers.
Book released 4th April 2025
Endorsements for 'Aspirations'
‘A wonderfully quirky, at times humorous and always insightful book revealing personal characteristics, events, and reflections throughout Virginia’s life. Thank you for letting the world into your colourful and fruitful life as an autistic girl and woman.’
— Dr. Theresa Kidd, Clinical Psychologist & Author
‘I came to know Oliver and Virginia Sta Maria and their son Aaron while coordinating the Curtin University Specialist Mentoring Program for neurodivergent tertiary students. Through their unwavering dedication, Aaron has been able to shape his best life going forward. Virginia’s courageous, autobiographical publication provides other families with the opportunity to understand and learn about a neurodivergent life from an insider, autistic perspective. She provides a raw, highly entertaining and poignant read that will entertain and educate a wide range of both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals about the challenges of living a neurodivergent life.’
— Dr. Jasmine McDonald BA DipEd MSpecEd(Hons) PhD.
‘Virginia’s book offers a deeply personal and moving memoir from the perspective of an individual with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Her candid narrative style provides a lens into her thoughts and emotions throughout different life stages. Virginia’s book presents a heartfelt exploration of life with ASD, promoting understanding and connection for readers seeking to grasp the realities of individuals dealing with these experiences.’
— Professor Tele Tan AM, Director, Autism Academy Curtin University
‘Although written as an autobiography, this book is likely to have a more general impact on its readers by reminding them that during our life we all move along a mental health spectrum ranging from normal to psychopathological. The book also represents a personal contribution to a dimensional approach to Asperger’s Syndrome by promoting its destigmatisation and humanisation.’
— Aleksandar Janca, Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry
‘Thank you so much for the privilege to read your book, Virginia. It made us blink away tears and laugh out loud! It is such a personal story. Knowing you, we can clearly hear your voice in our heads while reading. Your drawings are the icing on the cake! Readers of this book will quickly understand that:
• much can be told using bullet points
• it will take you into ‘Aspie’ thinking
• it is a humorous, admirable celebration of neurodiversity
• Virginia is a clever, funny, cool and beautiful inspiration for us all.’
— Associate Professor Marita Falkmer & Emeritus Professor Torbjorn Falkmer
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