Michael Barton

Michael Barton is a Data Analyst by trade and a sought-after keynote speaker on autism and neurodiversity. Data analysis involves lots of number crunching and programming, using tools such as Microsoft Excel, SQL, BigQuery and Google Analytics, all of which makes great use of his exceptional attention to detail.

He has featured in the media on numerous occasions from Channel 4 and the BBC to the New Scientist magazine. He has also appeared on the main stage at the Autism Show with leading professionals and delivers talks across the UK about his experiences of being on the autism spectrum. Michael focuses on the positive aspects of being autistic, which gives people a more optimistic view of the future.

Michael is the author of three published books. It's Raining Cats and Dogs: An Autism Spectrum Guide to the Confusing World of Idioms, Metaphors and Everyday Expressions examines how the English language can be extremely confusing and illogical, especially for people with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who interpret meaning in a very literal way.

Why should an announcement that cats and dogs are falling from the sky indicate heavy rain? And what have chickens got to do with being a coward? It's Raining Cats and Dogs is a witty and stylish insight into the mind of someone with an ASD. It beautifully illustrates why people with ASDs have problems understanding common phrases and idioms that others accept unquestioningly as part of everyday speech.

His 2014 follow-up, A Different Kettle of Fish: A Day in the Life of a Physics Student with Autism, provides the reader with further insight into the complexities of our use of language and how it is assumed we understand the illogicality of ambiguous expressions. The book describes Michael’s journey through a day out in London, with all the pitfalls of potential miscommunication, and is a voyage of self-discovery as Michael addresses his autism head-on and finds his place in the world.

Michael’s most recent book, What Has Autism Ever Done For Us? How the Autistic Way of Thinking Revolutionised the World, proposes that the autistic way of thinking is responsible for most of the world changing ideas, discoveries and achievements throughout history. He examines the autistic traits of a diverse variety of people, past and present, from Isaac Newton to Andy Warhol, Marie Curie to Greta Thunberg, showcasing how their autistic characteristics have contributed towards their achievements.

In his spare time, Michael Barton is an accomplished musician, playing jazz piano, bass guitar, drums and percussion (including spoons) with a variety of bands. On top of that he is a black belt in judo and enjoys skiing and rock climbing.

He is also patron of CASPA - Life with Autism - an award-winning charity based in South East London that provides a support and social hub for autistic people and their families.

Michael Barton is an experienced and sought-after public speaker on autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and neurodiversity; giving keynote talks at conferences, seminars, workshops, festivals, schools and training sessions about his experiences of being neurodivergent at the high functioning end of the autistic spectrum.

Under the broad umbrella of diversity and inclusion, his talks encourage autistic people to focus on their strengths and help neurotypical people (those that aren't autistic) to understand them better and therefore accommodate them to a greater extent. Michael considers himself to be in between the neurotypical and autistic worlds, and thus can act as an interpreter between the two.

Spotlighting the positive aspects of autism from his lived personal experiences, Michael’s talks are always very well received and he covers a wide range of topics; from strategies to help overcome difficulties he’s faced, to the world of employment and most of what's in between. He also talks about how he uses many of his autistic traits to his advantage and explores the notion that being "normal" isn't necessarily what we want to achieve.

Clients often ask about purchasing books for giveaways and delegate packs. Below you’ll find a selection of products by Michael Barton. Click the images to view on Amazon's website. For bulk orders, please speak with your Booking Agent.