Neurodiversity Affirming Reading Recommendations

Looking for neurodiversity-affirming books?
I have a growing collection of books listed by Autistic authors, advocates, and researchers. These books are perfect for parents, professionals, and curious minds alike.

Explore writing that affirms, not fixes.

Neurodivergent voices centered.

From education to identity, burnout to belonging.

Autism & Neurodiversity Theory

A Mismatch of Salience: Explorations of the Nature of Autism from Theory to Practice

Damian Milton explores the communication disconnects between autistic and non-autistic people, introducing the ‘double empathy problem’ to explain mutual misunderstandings. Goodreads

Neurodiversity Studies: A New Critical Paradigm
Hanna Bertilsdotter Rosqvist, Nick Chown, and Anna Stenning present a collection of essays that challenge traditional views of autism, advocating for a neurodiversity-affirming approach. Goodreads

Authoring Autism: On Rhetoric and Neurological Queerness

M. Remi Yergeau examines how autistic individuals are often denied agency, proposing ‘neuroqueerness’ as a framework to understand autistic identity. Goodreads

Autistic Community and the Neurodiversity Movement: Stories from the Frontline

Edited by Steven K. Kapp, this collection provides a historical overview of the autism rights movement, featuring narratives from key activists. Goodreads

Empire of Normality: Neurodiversity and Capitalism

Robert Chapman critiques how capitalist systems have shaped societal norms, marginalizing neurodivergent individuals. Goodreads

NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity

Steve Silberman traces the history of autism, advocating for a broader understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity. Goodreads

Understanding and Evaluating Autism Theory

Nick Chown provides a comprehensive analysis of various autism theories, encouraging critical evaluation of prevailing models. Goodreads

The Neurodiversity Reader: Exploring Concepts, Lived Experience and Implications for Practice
Damian Milton compiles perspectives from academics and activists to explore the concept of neurodiversity and its practical applications. Goodreads

Autistic Masking: Understanding Identity Management and the Role of Stigma
By Amy Pearson and Kieran Rose
This book delves into the phenomenon of autistic masking, exploring how societal stigma influences identity management among autistic individuals. It offers insights into the psychological impacts of masking and strategies for fostering authentic self-expression. Goodreads

Neurodiversity Studies: A New Critical Paradigm
Edited by Hanna Bertilsdotter Rosqvist, Nick Chown, and Anna Stenning
This anthology challenges traditional perspectives on neurodiversity, incorporating insights from feminist, queer, and critical race theories. It examines the societal constructs surrounding neurodivergence and advocates for a more inclusive understanding. Goodreads

The Autism Industrial Complex: How Branding, Marketing, and Capital Investment Turned Autism into Big Business
By Alicia A. Broderick
Broderick critiques the commercialization of autism, analyzing how branding and capital investment have shaped public perception and treatment approaches. The book calls for a reevaluation of the systems profiting from autism diagnoses. Goodreads

Understanding Others in a Neurodiverse World: A Radical Perspective on Communication and Shared Meaning
By Gemma Williams
This book offers a new way of understanding why cross-neurotype misattunements in communication may happen by taking the double empathy problem—a reframing of social communication difficulties as a two-way problem, not simply the result of an autistic ‘deficit’—and a little-known cognitive linguistics theory, ‘relevance theory’, as a starting point. Weaving together threads from critical autism studies, a social-justice perspective, cognitive science, linguistics, and sociology, this book leads the reader towards a new, radical perspective of how we can understand these breakdowns in understanding. Goodreads

Neurodivergent Experience, Identity & Advocacy

And Straight on Till Morning: Essays on Autism Acceptance

This collection from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network features essays promoting autism acceptance and understanding. Goodreads

I Will Die On This Hill: Autistic Adults, Children, and the Need for Acceptance

Meghan Ashburn and Jules Edwards discuss the importance of accepting autistic individuals as they are, challenging societal expectations. Goodreads

Loud Hands: Autistic People, Speaking

Edited by Julia Bascom, this anthology amplifies the voices of autistic individuals, sharing their experiences and perspectives. Goodreads

Songs of the Gorilla Nation: My Journey Through Autism
By Dawn Prince-Hughes
In this evocative memoir, Dawn Prince-Hughes shares her journey of self-discovery through her work with gorillas at the Woodland Park Zoo. Diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome in adulthood, she found a profound connection with the gorillas, whose behaviors mirrored her own experiences. This narrative intertwines her personal growth with insights into primate behavior, offering a unique perspective on autism and human-animal relationships. Goodreads

A Long Walk Down a Winding Road: Small Steps, Challenges, and Triumphs Through an Autistic Lens
By Sam Farmer
In this candid memoir, Sam Farmer shares his journey of self-discovery following a late-in-life autism diagnosis at age 40. He recounts personal challenges and triumphs, offering insights into embracing one’s autistic identity and navigating life’s complexities. Farmer’s narrative aims to inspire and empower readers to enhance their quality of life through acceptance and understanding. Goodreads

Our Autistic Lives: Personal Accounts from Autistic Adults Around the World Aged 20 to 70+

Alex Ratcliffe compiles stories from autistic adults worldwide, showcasing diverse experiences across the lifespan. Goodreads

Leaders Around Me: Autobiographies of Autistics Who Type, Point, and Spell to Communicate
Edited by Edlyn Vallejo Peña
A compilation of 45 autobiographies from autistic individuals who communicate through alternative methods, highlighting their experiences, challenges, and achievements. Goodreads

Different, Not Less: A Neurodivergent’s Guide to Embracing Your True Self and Finding Your Happily Ever After

Chloé Hayden shares her journey as a neurodivergent individual, offering insights and encouragement for others to embrace their identities. Goodreads

Divergent Mind: Thriving in a World That Wasn’t Designed for You

Jenara Nerenberg explores the experiences of neurodivergent women, advocating for recognition and support beyond traditional diagnoses. Goodreads

The New Normal: Autistic Musings on the Threat of a Broken Society
By David Gray-Hammond
A collection of essays reflecting on the challenges faced by autistic individuals in contemporary society. Gray-Hammond discusses topics like sobriety, mental health, and the need for systemic change. Goodreads

Unusual Medicine: Essays on Autistic Identity and Drug Addiction
By David Gray-Hammond
This anthology explores the intersection of autism and addiction, sharing personal narratives and insights into recovery. It sheds light on often overlooked aspects of autistic experiences. Goodreads

A Treatise on Chaos: Embracing the Chaotic Self and the Art of Neuroqueering
By David Gray-Hammond
Gray-Hammond delves into the concept of neuroqueering, advocating for embracing neurodivergent identities and challenging societal norms. The book combines personal experiences with theoretical discussions. Goodreads

A Guide to Autism and Psychosis: Personal and Professional Insights from a Psychotic Mind
By David Gray-Hammond
Combining personal narratives with professional insights, this guide explores the co-occurrence of autism and psychosis, aiming to foster understanding and support for individuals navigating both. Goodreads

The Little Book of Madness: Words About Madness, Autism, and the Liberation of Neurodivergent Bodyminds
By David Gray-Hammond
A reflective piece on the experiences of madness and autism, advocating for the liberation and acceptance of neurodivergent identities. Goodreads

Untypical: How the World Isn’t Built for Autistic People and What We Should All Do About It
Pete Wharmby discusses the challenges autistic individuals face in a neurotypical world and offers suggestions for creating a more inclusive society. Goodreads

What I Want to Talk About: How Autistic Special Interests Shape a Life
Pete Wharmby explores how special interests play a central role in the lives of autistic people, offering both joy and challenges. Goodreads

We’re Not Broken: Changing The Autism Conversation
Eric Garcia, an autistic journalist, challenges misconceptions about autism and advocates for policies that support neurodiverse individuals. Goodreads

Unmasking Autism: The Power of Embracing Our Hidden Neurodiversity
By Devon Price
In this insightful work, Dr. Devon Price explores the concept of ‘masking’—the practice of concealing one’s autistic traits to fit into neurotypical society. Drawing from personal experiences and research, Price delves into the psychological toll of masking and advocates for embracing one’s authentic self. The book serves as a guide for autistic individuals to unmask and live more freely, while also educating neurotypical readers on the importance of acceptance and understanding. Goodreads

Girl Unmasked: How Uncovering My Autism Saved My Life
By Emily Katy
A memoir detailing the author’s journey to an autism diagnosis and how it transformed her understanding of herself and her life.

Unmasking for Life: A Guide to Embracing Your Autism in a Neurotypical World
By Dr. Devon Price
In this follow-up to Unmasking Autism, Dr. Devon Price provides practical tools and strategies for autistic individuals to live authentically in a neurotypical world. The book focuses on five key skills: accepting change and uncertainty, engaging in productive conflict, challenging unfair social expectations, tolerating distress or being disliked, and creating new accommodations and relationship structures. Price’s approach empowers readers to move beyond self-acceptance and actively reshape their lives to align with their neurodivergent identities. Goodreads

Camouflage: The Hidden Lives of Autistic Women
By Sarah Bargiela
This graphic novel provides insights into the experiences of autistic women, highlighting the challenges of masking and societal expectations. Goodreads

Spectrum Women: Walking to the Beat of Autism
Edited by Barb Cook and Michelle Garnett
A collection of essays by autistic women discussing their experiences, challenges, and strengths, offering diverse perspectives on life with autism. Goodreads

Creating Safe Spaces for Autistic People: A Guide for Building Your Affirming Organisation or Group
By Scott Neilson & Laura Hellfeld
This practical guide offers strategies for creating inclusive environments that support autistic individuals. Drawing from lived experiences, it covers topics like sensory considerations, communication preferences, and trauma-informed approaches. The book is available in both full-colour and colour-reduced versions to accommodate diverse sensory needs.Amazon

Assessment and Support

The Neurodiversity Affirmative Child Autism Assessment Handbook
Dr. Maeve Kavanagh, Dr. Anna Day, Davida Hartman, Tara O’Donnell-Killen, and Jessica K. Doyle present a comprehensive guide for clinicians seeking to adopt a neurodiversity-affirmative approach to child autism assessments. Moving away from deficit-based models, this handbook offers practical strategies, case studies, and insights from professionals to support strengths-based evaluations and post-diagnostic support. Goodreads

The Adult Autism Assessment Handbook

Davida Hartman, Tara O’Donnell-Killen, and Jessica K. Doyle provide a comprehensive guide for professionals conducting adult autism assessments. Goodreads

The Neurodiverse Workplace: An Employer’s Guide to Managing and Working with Neurodivergent Employees, Clients and Customers

Victoria Honeybourne offers strategies for creating inclusive workplaces that support neurodivergent individuals. Goodreads

Workplace NeuroDiversity Rising
Lyric Rivera provides insights into creating inclusive workplaces that recognize and value neurodiverse talents. Goodreads

What Works for Autistic Adults
By Luke Beardon
In this insightful guide, Luke Beardon emphasizes the importance of adapting environments to support autistic adults, rather than expecting them to conform to neurotypical norms. The book provides practical strategies for creating inclusive spaces in various aspects of life, including work, relationships, and social settings. Goodreads

Your Sensory and Emotional Well-being
By Niamh Garvey
This guide offers autistic adults practical strategies to manage sensory sensitivities and emotional regulation. Drawing from personal experiences, Garvey provides tools like ‘quick calm plans’ and the ‘detective habit’ to help readers identify triggers and develop personalized self-care routines. Goodreads

Neurosensory Divergence: Autistic Languages
Helen Daniel delves into the unique communication styles of autistic individuals, advocating for broader recognition and understanding. Goodreads

Self-Care for Autistic People: 100+ Ways to Recharge, De-Stress, and Unmask!
By Megan Anna Neff
This guide offers over 100 neurodivergent-affirming self-care strategies tailored for autistic individuals. Dr. Megan Anna Neff provides practical exercises to help readers manage sensory sensitivities, reduce masking, and prevent burnout. The book emphasizes embracing one’s autistic identity and prioritizing well-being through personalized self-care routines. Goodread


Understanding Autistic Burnout
By Viv Dawes
This concise workbook addresses the phenomenon of autistic burnout, offering insights into its symptoms, causes, and triggers. Designed with simplicity in mind, it includes symptom trackers and worksheets to help individuals identify triggers and develop strategies for healing and prevention. Goodreads

Family

The Strengths-Based Guide to Supporting Autistic Children

Claire O’Neill emphasizes a strengths-based approach to supporting autistic children, focusing on their abilities and interests. Goodreads

The Teen’s Guide to PDA: An Introduction to Pathological Demand Avoidance for Young People

Laura Kerbey introduces teenagers to the concept of Pathological Demand Avoidance, offering coping strategies and insights. Goodreads

Self-Care for Autistic People: A Guide to Mental Health and Wellbeing

Dr. Megan Anna Neff provides self-care strategies tailored for autistic individuals,

Nurturing Your Autistic Young Person
Cathy Wassell offers guidance for parents and caregivers on supporting autistic children, focusing on understanding and affirming their experiences. Goodreads

Interoception: The Eighth Sensory System
Kelly Mahler explores interoception, the sense of internal body signals, and its impact on emotional regulation and self-awareness in autistic individuals. Goodreads

Declarative Language Handbook
Linda Murphy introduces declarative language as a tool to support communication and cognitive development in neurodiverse children. Goodreads

What Works for Autistic Children
Luke Beardon offers evidence-based strategies for supporting autistic children in various settings. Goodreads

50 Fantastic Ideas for Supporting Neurodiversity
Kerry Murphy offers practical activities and ideas to support neurodiverse learners in educational settings. Goodreads

What To Do When Your Schools Are Not Working
Dr. Jacquelyn Fede and Dr. Amy Laurent provide strategies for parents and caregivers when traditional educational settings are not meeting their child’s needs. Goodreads

Your Child is Not Broken
Heidi Mavir shares her personal journey as a parent of a neurodivergent child, challenging societal expectations and advocating for acceptance. Goodreads

Standing Up for Myself
Evaleen Whelton offers insights into self-advocacy for autistic individuals, emphasizing the importance of understanding and asserting one’s rights. Goodreads

Breastfeeding, Autism & ADHD
Emily Lunny explores the intersection of breastfeeding experiences with autism and ADHD, providing support for neurodivergent parents. Goodreads

How to Raise Happy Neurofabulous Children
Katy Elphinstone provides guidance for parents on nurturing neurodivergent children, focusing on positivity and empowerment. Goodreads

Can’t Not Won’t: A Story About A Child Who Couldn’t Go To School
Eliza Fricker shares her family’s experience with school avoidance, offering insights into the challenges faced by children unable to attend school and the systemic hurdles encountered. Goodreads

The Family Experience of PDA: An Illustrated Guide to Pathological Demand Avoidance
Eliza Fricker provides a light-hearted yet informative guide on raising a child with PDA, covering topics from tolerance levels to meltdowns, aiming to support families navigating similar journeys. Goodreads

PDA by PDAers: From Anxiety to Avoidance and Masking to Meltdowns
Compiled by Sally Cat, this book offers a unique window into adult Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), exploring the diversity of distinct PDA traits through the voices of over 70 individuals. Goodreads

Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome – My Daughter is Not Naughty
Jane Alison Sherwin provides an honest and uplifting account, offering insight into the challenges of bringing up a child with PDA, aiming to increase understanding and support. Goodreads

Being Julia: A Personal Account of Living with Pathological Demand Avoidance
Julia Daunt, co-authored with Ruth Fidler, shares her personal journey living with PDA, ADHD, and psychotic episodes, providing an in-depth look into her experiences and coping strategies. Goodreads

The Teen’s Guide to PDA
Laura Kerbey, illustrated by Eliza Fricker, presents an accessible guide for teenagers with PDA, helping them understand their diagnosis and navigate the challenges they may face. Goodreads

My Child/Teen Has Been Identified as Autistic: A Book for Parents or Anyone Wanting to Understand Autism
By Viv Dawes
Aimed at parents and caregivers, this book provides a comprehensive overview of autism, offering practical advice and insights to support and understand autistic children and teenagers. Goodreads

Supporting Children Through Autistic Burnout
By Viv Dawes
This workbook is designed to assist parents and caregivers in understanding and supporting children experiencing autistic burnout. It provides practical strategies, worksheets, and insights to help identify triggers, manage symptoms, and promote recovery in young individuals. Goodreads

Nurturing Your Autistic Young Person: A Parent’s Handbook to Supporting Newly Diagnosed Teens and Pre-Teens
By Cathy Wassell
This handbook offers guidance for parents navigating the early stages of an autism diagnosis, providing practical advice to support their teen or pre-teen. Goodreads

Standing Up for Myself: An Empowering Book for Neurodivergent Kids and Teens
By Evaleen Whelton
A resource for neurodivergent youth that addresses boundaries, sensitivity, personal space, consent, and self-advocacy. Goodreads

Start Here: A Guide for Parents of Autistic Kids
By Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network
This guide provides parents with information and resources to understand and support their autistic children effectively. Goodreads

What Works for Autistic Children
By Luke Beardon
This book offers practical strategies for parents and professionals to support autistic children, emphasizing understanding and inclusion. Goodreads

When the Naughty Step Makes Things Worse: Parenting for Children (and Adults) Who Need Something Different
By Dr. Naomi Fisher and Eliza Fricker
This guide challenges traditional parenting techniques, offering alternative strategies for families with neurodivergent children who don’t respond to conventional discipline methods.

Parenting When You’re Autistic
By Pooky Knightsmith
A supportive guide offering practical advice for autistic parents, addressing the unique challenges and strengths they bring to parenting.

Sincerely, Your Autistic Child: What People on the Autism Spectrum Wish Their Parents Knew About Growing Up, Acceptance, and Identity
Edited by Emily Paige Ballou, Morénike Giwa Onaiwu, and Sharon daVanport
A collection of essays by autistic individuals sharing insights and advice for parents to better understand and support their children. Goodreads

Embracing Monotropism and Supporting Young People to Help Prevent Autistic Burnout
By Helen Edgar (my book!)
This neurodiversity-affirming guide explores the theory of monotropism—a cognitive style often associated with autism characterized by intense focus on specific interests. Helen Edgar discusses how understanding and supporting monotropic tendencies in young people can help prevent autistic burnout. The book offers practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers to create supportive environments that align with monotropic thinking, promoting well-being and reducing the risk of burnout. Goodreads

Education

A Different Way to Learn: Neurodiversity and Self-Directed Education
By Dr. Naomi Fisher
Exploring self-directed education, this book provides insights into alternative learning approaches that cater to neurodivergent children’s needs. Goodreads

The Teacher’s Introduction to Pathological Demand Avoidance: Essential Strategies for the Classroom
By Clare Truman
This essential guide offers practical strategies for educators working with students exhibiting Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) profiles. Clare Truman provides insights into recognizing PDA traits and implementing supportive, flexible approaches to reduce anxiety and enhance learning experiences.

Can’t Not Won’t: A Story About a Child Who Couldn’t Go to School
By Eliza Fricker
This illustrated book offers an empathetic look into the challenges faced by families when a child is unable to attend school due to anxiety or other difficulties.

The Educator’s Experience of Pathological Demand Avoidance
Laura Kerbey offers a practical guide for educators working with students with PDA, providing strategies and insights to create supportive learning environments. Goodreads

A Guide to SEND in the Early Years
Kerry Payne provides an overview of supporting young children with SEND, including identification, intervention, and collaboration with families. Goodreads

All About Autism: A Practical Guide for Primary Teachers
Lynn McCann offers practical advice for primary school teachers to support autistic students effectively. Goodreads

All About Autism: A Practical Guide for Secondary Teachers
Lynn McCann focuses on strategies for secondary school educators to support autistic students. Goodreads

Embodied Education: Creating Safe, Neurodivergent-Affirming Learning Spaces
Kay and Dan Alrded discusses the importance of creating learning environments that affirm neurodivergent identities and promote safety. Goodreads

Supporting the Wellbeing of Children with SEND
Kerry Murphy discusses strategies for promoting the well-being of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Goodreads

What Works for Autistic Children
Luke Beardon offers evidence-based strategies for supporting autistic children in various settings. Goodreads

Autism, Identity and Me: A Practical Workbook and Professional Guide to Empower Autistic Children and Young People Aged 10+
By Rebecca Duffus
A workbook designed to help autistic youth explore and understand their identity, fostering self-awareness and empowerment. Goodreads

Reasonable Adjustments for Autistic Children: How to Make Their World Better
By Luke Beardon
This insightful guide by Dr. Luke Beardon outlines essential adjustments needed in homes, schools, and public spaces to support autistic children effectively. It offers practical strategies to create environments where autistic individuals can thrive, emphasizing the importance of understanding and accommodating their unique needs. (Goodreads)

Embracing Monotropism and Supporting Young People to Help Prevent Autistic Burnout
By Helen Edgar (my book!)
This neurodiversity-affirming guide explores the theory of monotropism—a cognitive style often associated with autism characterized by intense focus on specific interests. Helen Edgar discusses how understanding and supporting monotropic tendencies in young people can help prevent autistic burnout. The book offers practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers to create supportive environments that align with monotropic thinking, promoting well-being and reducing the risk of burnout. Goodreads

Square Pegs: Inclusivity, Compassion and Fitting In – A Guide for Schools
By Fran Morgan and Ellie Costello
This comprehensive guide addresses the challenges faced by students who don’t conform to traditional educational models. Through contributions from over 50 experts—including educators, psychologists, parents, and legal professionals—the book offers insights into creating inclusive environments that accommodate diverse learning needs. It emphasizes the importance of understanding, flexibility, and compassion in fostering educational settings where every student can thrive. (Goodreads)

Children’s Books

Neurodiversity! What’s That?: An Introduction to Neurodiversity for Kids
By Nadine Arthur
This engaging book introduces children to the concept of neurodiversity, aiming to improve self-esteem and confidence by celebrating different ways of thinking and learning. Goodreads

Slipper the Penguin: A Story About Embracing Neurodivergence
By Amy Marschall, Psy.D.
Slipper, a penguin living among jungle birds, feels out of place until she discovers others like her. This story teaches children about embracing their unique differences. Goodreads

I Am the Sunshine and the Sunshine Is Me
By Alice McSweeney
A colorful rhyming storybook that promotes positive autistic identity, encouraging children to embrace their uniqueness. Goodreads

Too Much!: An Overwhelming Day
By Jolene Gutierrez and Angel Chang
A reassuring rhyming picture book that explores sensory overload and provides strategies for children to manage overwhelming feelings. Goodreads

Every Brain is Beautiful: A Little Kids’ Guide to Neurodiversity
By Sara Furlong
An engaging book that introduces young children to the concept of neurodiversity, promoting inclusion and acceptance among all children. Goodreads

Wonderfully Wired Brains: An Introduction to the World of Neurodiversity
By Louise Gooding and Ruth Burrows
This inspirational book introduces children aged 7–9 to the concept of neurodiversity, highlighting the unique abilities of neurodivergent individuals and challenging common misconceptions. It serves as an inclusive guide to understanding and embracing neurological differences. Goodreads

Perfectly Norman: A Big Bright Feelings Book
By Tom Percival
This uplifting story encourages children to embrace their individuality and the courage to be themselves, celebrating diversity in a unique way. Goodreads

Dexter! The AMAZING School Dog!
By Lucy Plunkett and Sian Bowman
A heartwarming tale about Dexter, a school dog who supports children with various needs, promoting inclusivity and understanding in the school environment. Goodreads

Amazing Me, Amazing You
By Christine McGuinness
Authored by autism ambassador Christine McGuinness, this book emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity and inclusivity, helping children understand and accept differences. Goodreads

The Same But Different
By Molly Potter and Sarah Jennings
Using everyday examples and colorful illustrations, this book encourages children to appreciate and celebrate differences, fostering empathy and understanding. Goodreads

A Day with No Words
By Tiffany Hammond, illustrated by Kate Cosgrove
This picture book offers a glimpse into the daily life of a non-speaking autistic child and his mother, highlighting their communication through nonverbal means. It’s a celebration of neurodiversity and the various ways people connect beyond spoken language. Goodreads

My Mummy is Autistic: A Picture Book and Guide about Recognising and Understanding Difference
By Heath Grace and Joanna Grace
Co-created by five-year-old Heath and his autistic mother Joanna, this book provides insights into their unique communication styles. It combines child-friendly illustrations with explanatory notes to foster understanding of neurodiversity within families. Goodreads

The Secret Life of Rose
By Jodie Clarke and Rose Smitten
This collaborative work between mother and daughter delves into the inner world of an autistic child. Rose shares her experiences, while Jodie provides professional insights, offering readers a comprehensive view of autism from both personal and clinical perspectives. Goodreads

Tweens and Teens

The Teen’s Guide to PDA
By Laura Kerbey and Eliza Fricker
This illustrated guide helps teens understand Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), offering insights into their unique brain wiring and practical strategies for navigating daily challenges. Goodreads

Different, Not Less: A Neurodivergent’s Guide to Embracing Your True Self and Finding Your Happily Ever After
By Chloé Hayden
An empowering guide by actor and advocate Chloé Hayden, encouraging neurodivergent individuals to embrace their identities and celebrate their uniqueness. Goodreads

Young, Autistic and ADHD: Moving into Adulthood When You’re Multiply Neurodivergent
By Sarah Boon
Sarah Boon provides insights and advice for young adults navigating life with both autism and ADHD, focusing on the transition into adulthood. Goodreads

My Autism Journal
By Carly Jones
A guided journal designed for autistic individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, featuring prompts and inspirational quotes. Goodreads

The Teenager’s Guide to Burnout: Finding the Road to Recovery
By Dr. Naomi Fisher and Eliza Fricker
This book addresses teenage burnout, offering practical tools and support for recovery, with illustrations to engage young readers. Goodreads

Unmasked: The Ultimate Guide to Autism, ADHD and Neurodivergence
By Ellie Middleton
Ellie Middleton shares her experiences with autism and ADHD, providing guidance and support for others navigating neurodivergence. Goodreads

How Not to Fit In: An Unapologetic Guide to Navigating Autism and ADHD
By Jess Joy & Charlotte Mia
A candid exploration of life with autism and ADHD, offering advice and personal stories to empower readers to embrace their differences. Goodreads

So I’m Autistic: An Introduction to Autism for Young Adults and Late Teens
By Sarah O’Brien
An accessible introduction to autism, aimed at young adults and late teens, covering diagnosis, self-understanding, and advocacy. Goodreads

How To Be You: Say Goodbye to Should, Would and Could So That You Can
By Ellie Middleton
This book encourages readers to let go of societal expectations and embrace their authentic selves, with practical tips and personal insights. Goodreads

The Teenager’s Guide to Burnout: Finding the Road to Recovery
By Dr. Naomi Fisher and Eliza Fricker
This illustrated guide addresses the growing issue of burnout among teenagers, particularly those facing pressures from school and life. Dr. Naomi Fisher, a clinical psychologist, and Eliza Fricker, an illustrator and author, combine their expertise to help teens understand what burnout is, how it develops, and practical steps to recover. The book is structured into four stages: Breakdown, Repair, Learning from the Journey, and The Road Ahead, offering relatable insights and actionable advice. naomifisher.co.uk

Can You See Me?
By Libby Scott and Rebecca Westcott
Tally is 11 years old and autistic, navigating the challenges of middle school while trying to fit in. This heartfelt novel, co-written by an autistic teen and an experienced author, offers an authentic portrayal of life on the spectrum. Goodreads

Do You Know Me?
By Libby Scott and Rebecca Westcott
In this sequel to Can You See Me?, Tally faces new challenges during a school trip, exploring themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and the importance of understanding. Goodreads

A Kind of Spark
By Elle McNicoll
Addie, an autistic girl, campaigns for a memorial in her Scottish town to honor women persecuted as witches, drawing parallels between historical injustices and her own experiences. Goodreads

Keedie
By Elle McNicoll
A prequel to A Kind of Spark, this novel delves into the life of Keedie, Addie’s older sister, exploring her experiences with autism, bullying, and the complexities of adolescence. Goodreads

Geek Girl
By Holly Smale
Harriet Manners, a socially awkward teenager with a love for facts, is thrust into the world of fashion modeling. This humorous series explores themes of identity and self-discovery. Goodreads

Afrotistic
By Kala Allen Omeiza
Noa Jenkins, a Black autistic teen, strives to find her place in a new town by forming a group for neurodivergent students. This novel highlights the intersectionality of race and neurodiversity. Goodreads

Finding Phoebe
By Gavin Extence
Phoebe, an autistic teenager, finds herself entangled in her best friend’s secret relationship, leading her to confront new social dynamics and personal growth. Goodreads

Underdogs
By Chris Bonnello
In a dystopian future, a group of neurodiverse teens become unlikely heroes, using their unique strengths to challenge a tyrannical regime.

Some Like It Cold
By Elle McNicoll
Jasper Montgomery returns to her hometown, confronting past relationships and personal growth in this small-town romance that touches on themes of identity and acceptance.

The Awesome Autistic Go-To Guide: A Practical Handbook for Autistic Teens and Tweens
By Yenn Purkis and Tanya Masterman
This engaging guide is tailored for autistic teens and tweens, offering practical advice on navigating various aspects of life, from understanding autism to managing emotions and building relationships. It includes fun activities and diary pages where readers can write their thoughts and feelings to help them concentrate on their strengths and work on their challenges.

Queerly Autistic: The Ultimate Guide for LGBTQIA+ Teens on the Spectrum

Erin Ekins offers guidance for LGBTQIA+ autistic teens, addressing identity, relationships, and self-advocacy. Goodreads

Intersectionality, Disability and Social Justice

Autistic and Black: Our Experiences of Growth, Progress and Empowerment

Kala Allen Omeiza compiles narratives from Black autistic individuals, highlighting their unique challenges and triumphs. Goodreads

Feminist, Queer, Crip

Alison Kafer interweaves feminist and queer theories with disability studies, proposing a more inclusive future. Goodreads

Gender Identity, Sexuality and Autism: Voices from Across the Spectrum

This anthology presents diverse perspectives on the intersections of gender, sexuality, and autism. Goodreads

Neuroqueer Heresies: Notes on the Neurodiversity Paradigm, Autistic Empowerment, and Postnormal Possibilities

Nick Walker explores the concept of neuroqueering, challenging societal norms and advocating for neurodivergent liberation. Goodreads

Disability Visibility: First-Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century
Edited by Alice Wong
This anthology brings together 37 essays by disabled writers, activists, and artists, offering candid insights into the diverse experiences of living with disabilities. Organized into four sections—Being, Becoming, Doing, and Connecting—the collection delves into topics such as identity, activism, and community. It challenges societal perceptions and highlights the richness of disabled lives. This book is a vital resource for understanding the multifaceted nature of disability and the importance of inclusivity. Goodread

Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Changing Worlds

Adrienne Maree Brown presents a framework for social change inspired by nature, emphasizing adaptability and resilience. Goodreads

Living a Feminist Life

Sara Ahmed explores the everyday experiences of living as a feminist, highlighting the challenges and joys of feminist practice. Goodreads

Radical Intimacy

Sophie K Rosa examines the politics of intimacy, challenging traditional notions of relationships and family structures. Goodreads

Rest is Resistance: A Manifesto

Tricia Hersey advocates for rest as a form of resistance against systemic oppression and capitalism. Goodreads

Sand Talk: How Indigenous Thinking Can Save the World

Tyson Yunkaporta shares Indigenous knowledge systems, offering alternative perspectives on global challenges. Goodreads

bell hooks – any works
bell hooks wrote extensively on the intersections of race, gender, and class, providing valuable insights into systemic oppression and liberation. Goodreads

Neuroqueer Heresies: Notes on the Neurodiversity Paradigm, Autistic Empowerment, and Postnormal Possibilities

Nick Walker explores the concept of neuroqueering, challenging societal norms and advocating for neurodivergent liberation. Goodreads

Futher Reading

Autism Books by Autistic Authors