I've just written my cover letter, so I don't have to worry about it when I'm ready to submit. I just want to know what everyone's opinion is on adding the fact I'm autistic in the 'About me' part of the letter. Would this help the agents if they contact me?
Living with an Autistic brain rather than the type which we seem to think is the only correct type is NOT an illness. It is rather like working on a MAC instead of a PC. Different - that's all. Editors and publishers would do well to learn a little about how an autistic brain works. Attention to detail is far superior and time-out is only taken when a target is satisfactorily met. Logic is the main programme running on an autistic brain which is a major plus when continuity issues arise.
Don't expect facial expressions to area on the charecters unless this is from theory rather than experience. Bear in mind, though, that an autistic brain would source a brilliant reference to facial expressions and body language.
Who said anything about a level playing field? Before dismissing autistic people as inferior may I suggest that a search be made for "famous people on the autistic scale". I'll start you off:
http://autismmythbusters.com/general-public/famous-autistic-people/
Unless it impacts upon your writing, I'd leave it out, Antoinette. You are, after all, selling your work (even though it's an integral part of yourself) and it should stand on its own merits.
If you are writing about autism, or one of your characters has the condition, that's different; it would prove you're writing with personal insight.
Sad to say that merely seeing the word autistic could put some agents off when they have so many submissions every day. That cover letter is the front door, if you will, and you want them to open it, not move swiftly on to the next one.
If you are contacted and get into a reasonable relationship with an agent who really likes your work, maybe then you could mention it. I know you want to be honest and upfront, but in the initial stages you need to be competing on the same level as everyone else: work first and foremost.
Lorraine
My son is autistic and writes computer games. He likes his work to be judged rather than his personality, at least initially.