Divergent Realms: Science Fiction and Fantasy Stories About Neurodivergence

by Riley Odell

Question your typical perception.

See beyond the normal you know.

Step into divergent realms.

Let this anthology of new and original short stories show you the fantastic and futuristic through a new lens.

A struggling father discovers why his autistic daughter becomes consumed with a virtual reality simulator in the wake of her mother’s death.

An android who can’t stop ruminating about her consciousness being trapped inside a machine for all eternity confronts her worst fear to stop a sentient AI.

Authorities deny a man with a distractible mind a position navigating a chaotic place outside space and time that provides access to other universes, only to realize he’s their only hope to recover their lost agents.

Divergent Realms showcases the wide spectrum of neurodiversity through the open worlds of speculative fiction. Written and edited by the neurodiverse themselves, these stories express a new side of ADHD, Autism, OCD, and more.

Experience an atypical reality and deepen your understanding of the world around you today!

Genres: Science Fiction, Anthologies, Fiction, Short Stories, Fantasy, Disability

204 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 23, 2024

Reviews

[Kaa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very good anthology, with an important theme and high caliber of stories. I found almost every story enjoyable, with only one or two that didn't really work for me. I enjoyed the variety of ideas and representation offered, and will be checking for other work by many of the creators involved.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC.

[Kenneth Rotter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun stories. Great points of view I don't see much of.

[The Rat's Attic · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Divergent Realms", edited by Riley Odell.
ARC received through Net Galley.
This is a challenging review to write.
Were I to just blurt out my first thought, I would have to say "as a whole, it's ok. Nothing stellar".
But that wouldn't be quite right, and it wouldn't be quite fair.
So, Divergent Realms is an anthology of stories written by people with various neurodivergences - ADHD, bipolar disorder, autism (and the different points on that spectrum), and more -, and each of the stories features someone who is different. Sometimes as the protagonist, sometimes as a character we see from the outside. And each of these stories explores some of what it feels like to be different.
Out of the 14 stories, I would say 5 of them were really good, 1 was good, and the rest felt like filler. 6 hits out of 14 seems like a pretty poor batting average, but as I was considering what to write about this collection I started thinking - what made those 6 different, and why did those other 8 leave me indifferent?
They were all stories which I could relate to in some way - the fear of one day not being able to trust my own mind, having people in my life who I will fundamentally never be able to fully understand, the frustration of being betrayed by my own body. These are things which I can understand, and so I get the stories about them. The other stories weren't for me, and that's ok. Not everything is meant for everyone.
Maybe, then, the stories which didn't speak to me might speak to you. In any case, I'm glad this book exists, and I enjoyed of it what I enjoy.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm so glad I decided to try this book. I wasn't familiar with the editor, and anthologies can be very hit or miss, so I wasn't sure how this one would land for me. I was surprised and pleased by this book and I'm glad I read it.

This is an anthology of stories about neurodiverse characters, all written by neurodiverse authors. I love this theme and thought the editor did a great job showcasing stories reflecting a wide range of ND experiences. A hallmark of moving through the world as a ND person is constantly seeing ND conditions/symptoms described in terms of how they impact "normal" or neurotypical people, rather than how they impact the individual with the condition. This anthology was incredibly refreshing in how it centered ND people and their experiences.

While there were a handful of stories that didn't work for me at all - something that's very common for me when reading anthologies - overall I was happy with the quality and depth of the stories. I found several authors whose work I will seek out in the future, and I'll definitely keep an eye out for more work from editor Riley Odell also.

Highlight stories for me:
- A Place to Belong by R.B. Kelly
- All In my Head by Gerri Leen
- Trip of a Lifetime by Holly Schofield
- Nelly's World by Arthur H. Manners

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC for review!

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Divergent Realms" beckons readers into a captivating odyssey through the intricate realm of neurodiversity, beautifully depicted within the imaginative landscape of speculative fiction. Curated and crafted by neurodiverse authors, these stories provide insightful perspectives on ADHD, Autism, OCD, and beyond.

Immerse yourself in these distinct universes and broaden your perception of the world.

This anthology presents tales featuring neurodiverse protagonists, all skillfully written by neurodiverse authors.

I appreciate the opportunity to explore this anthology, which diverges from my usual reading choices as I seldom venture into anthologies. Each evening, it was a delight to escape into a new narrative before drifting off to sleep. While I found some stories more resonant than others, personal preference undoubtedly influences this. Overall, I found the collection to be a rewarding read.

A heartfelt thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial!

‘Fiction can always do with more of the unique perspectives such writers bring to the table.’ - Riley Odell

Thank you Riley Odell, for doing just this!

[Michael Doane]

Divergent Realms is a brilliantly crafted anthology that pushes the boundaries of science fiction and fantasy while illuminating the diverse experiences of neurodivergent individuals. Riley Odell and the contributing writers expertly blend imaginative storytelling with profound insight, allowing readers to see the world from perspectives often overlooked. From a father navigating his autistic daughter’s grief and fascination with virtual reality to an android confronting the limits of consciousness, each story captivates while fostering empathy and understanding.

The anthology’s true strength lies in its ability to combine speculative fiction with meaningful representation. By highlighting ADHD, Autism, OCD, and other neurodiverse experiences, the book challenges conventional narratives and encourages readers to reconsider their assumptions about normalcy, intelligence, and human potential. Divergent Realms is both entertaining and deeply thought-provoking, a must-read for fans of science fiction and anyone seeking stories that expand the mind and the heart.

[David Carriere · Rating 5 out of 5]

Divergent Realms is a powerful and imaginative anthology that redefines speculative fiction by placing neurodivergent experiences at its core rather than its margins. Each story invites the reader to step beyond conventional perspectives and experience worlds shaped by minds that perceive, process, and respond differently.

From virtual realities that become emotional sanctuaries to androids grappling with existential rumination, the collection is both deeply human and boldly imaginative. The stories do not explain neurodivergence to the reader. They immerse the reader in it. That approach gives the anthology its emotional honesty and narrative strength.

What makes Divergent Realms especially compelling is its authenticity. Written and edited by neurodiverse voices, the stories feel lived-in, thoughtful, and purposeful. This is speculative fiction that does more than entertain. It broadens empathy, challenges assumptions, and proves that diverse minds are not limitations but gateways to extraordinary storytelling.

[Melissa Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love the concept of this anthology book!

While it is a wonderful sci-fi/fantasy/horror/speculative fiction anthology, I have to say, this is so well done, and gives an important voice to authors that are neurodivergent, and doing an excellent job of writing short stories!

I believe that anyone that loves sci-fi/fantasy/speculative fiction anthologies, needs to read this book! In addition, if you know and/or love anyone on the spectrum/anyone neurodivergent, this is absolutely a book to support this wonderful community! And even if you don’t have a connection with this community, you will still love the stories in this book!

I hope everyone will share this book! There are very few books today that specifically reach out and try to highlight the neurodivergent community, but this anthology does this very well. The editor/publisher, Riley Odell, provides excellent stories to anyone interested in speculative fiction!

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Divergent Realms is a bold, imaginative anthology that uses the power of speculative fiction to illuminate the many textures of neurodivergence. Riley Odell curates a collection of stories that are not only inventive and emotionally resonant but also profoundly human. Each tale reimagines ADHD, autism, OCD, and other neurodivergences through futuristic and fantastical lenses, resulting in narratives that challenge assumptions, deepen empathy, and expand what speculative fiction can do.

With gripping concepts, unforgettable characters, and a refreshing range of voices from neurodiverse creators themselves, this anthology delivers both thought-provoking ideas and heartfelt storytelling. Divergent Realms isn’t just a book, it’s a perspective shift, inviting readers to see beyond the familiar and step into realms where difference becomes power.

[Kathryn Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

Divergent Realms is a fun anthology of fourteen short stories by neurodivergent authors. As well as the entertainment that the stories bring (and they do!), the editor states that his goal is to represent many diverse voices within the book, which he did by making the submission process more accessible. In doing so, he has collated a truly diverse and interesting set of stories written by neurodiverse authors about neurodiverse characters.

I was also glad to read that the authors were paid as they deserve to be, even if Riley required family support to do so. I think it is an important point, as many, many neurodivergent people are unemployed and underemployed. Nice work, team!

Many thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for review access to the digital book.

[Punky Broomster]

Divergent Realms is a collection of stories created by author on the ADD/ADHD and autism spectrum about characters who have the same traits. These stories are sci-fi in nature with some falling more into fantasy. Unfortunately, I am going to be DNFing this anthology. The stories I’ve read thus far haven’t completely captured my attention and I don’t think I’ll find one that will increase my interest to move further along as they are all different and by different authors. I really wanted to enjoy this book as I also fall into the ADHD category but it just didn’t capture what I was looking/hoping for. DNF at 30%.

[Mide Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Divergent Realms is a powerful anthology that blends speculative fiction with the unique perspectives of neurodiverse authors. Through imaginative and emotionally resonant stories, it explores themes of grief, identity, and perception challenging conventional norms and celebrating minds that think differently. Creative, thought-provoking, and refreshingly original, this collection is a must-read for anyone seeking stories that expand both imagination and empathy.

[Amber McCulloch · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a nice collection of stories that felt like cozy-adjacent short pieces of fiction, which I really liked for an anthology of neurodivergent characters. I loved that I was able to see myself represented in stories with autistic characters, but also the character with migraine, and saw my child in the characters with ADHD. Its a nice, positive pick me up kind of read if you're looking for neurodivergent rep.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book came to me as a reviewing assignment from Foreword Reviews. Lucky me! The stories are diverse, but all are captivating and written by skilled, imaginative authors. The editing is also top-notch. My formal review will be available soon at forewordreviews.com, but I wanted to show this collection a little extra love.

[Ellen Kozisek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The stories are short, which was nice. Every story was enjoyable, and I really enjoyed seeing science fiction stories with perspectives of neurodivergent people. I liked that it included stories of people who deal with sensory issues.

[El Moore · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very interesting and creative collection of stories! I enjoy how much variation there was in characters and cultures represented. Not my favorite styles of writing pretty much across the board, but I have no real qualms with them, and the stories were still fun to read!

[Shannon Styles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this!

[Lisa Grønsund]

I received an advanced digital copy of this book, courtesy of the author and publisher, via Netgalley, for review consideration.

RTC

[AMAO · Rating 5 out of 5]

💯💯💯💯💯