 Taking off the mask is a classic example of a small but mighty book. It looks quite unassuming but it's one of the more powerful and empowering books I've read recently. The author is autistic and the book is inspired both by her PhD research and also by her personal journey of self-acceptance and unmasking. The book is logically structured, first building on the reader's understanding of what masking is, why we might do it, and the pros and cons before moving on to exercises and experiments to begin to remove the mask. As a late diagnosed autistic woman, I hoped this book would have something to offer me personally. It didn't disappoint. It helped me gain a better understanding of myself and to consider what might be safe, healthy or helpful to change and some practical steps for doing just that. It also helped me to embrace and enjoy my quirks whilst working through a little bit of aged self-hatred and freaky feelings along the way. A great book for those hoping to connect a little more closely with their true selves or for those supporting someone else on this journey.