Bright Girl, Lacks Focus: A Neurodivergent Memoir

by Cindy Robinson

An unlikely self-love story between a broken girl and her strange brain.Using a refreshing, unexpected, and clever combination of self-deprecation and profound insightfulness, Cindy Robinson shares the story of how her ADHD, OCD, and childhood trauma aided both in her downfall as well as her ultimate triumph.Her humorous and heartfelt vignettes invite you to walk alongside her as she attempts to prove she’s “normal” (and fails repeatedly). Determined not to give up on herself, she ultimately finds solace in a surprising place... her strangeness. Witness her artfully blossom from self-hatred to self-compassion, highlighting the path along the way for any reader to follow. It is a beautiful and endearing story of unmasking, embracing, and enlightening.

Genres: Memoir, Nonfiction, Adhd, Mental Health, Self Help

254 pages, Paperback

Published March 17, 2024

About the author

Cindy Robinson is a Researcher, Writer, and Neurodivergent Life Coach. She writes fiction and nonfiction books that feature relatable neurodivergent characters through an affirming lens. As a researcher, she specializes in researching neurophysiology, primarily as it pertains to neurodivergent brains. In her coaching, he supports neurodivergent humans through the unmasking process and helps them embrace their diagnoses and, in turn, themselves. Her passion for supporting neurodivergent humans is person, as she is diagnosed with ASD, ADHD, and OCD.

Cindy is married to an impressively supportive husband, Brad, whom she describes as a real-life Ron Swanson. Together they have a son, Maddox, who's beautiful soul is worth the weight of breaking every generational trauma cycle. She is grateful for their endless love and acceptance.

Love on the Spectrum intro: Cindy loves sunshine on her face and warm cups of tea. Cindy doesn't like microfiber cloths or running into people she knows at the grocery store.

Reviews

[Sharna Leanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was thankfully gifted and ARC of this book. After following Cindy on Instagram and relating to many of her hilarious posts on there I was excited to read this.

A raw story of how real and difficult the world can be as an undiagnosed neurodivergent person. I found her story so heartbreaking, heartwarming and fiercely honest.

Finding solace in her uniqueness and reading her journey of healing and self compassion was a truly endearing powerful well written story. A great read for anyone on their own journey of unmasking and embracing their wonderfully wired brain.

[Tina Lembke · Rating 4 out of 5]

I acquired this as an advanced reader copy and sped through it once I found the free time. It's a really quick read despite the heavy topics discussed. 

A lot of it was very relatable since I have various things in common with the author but her life was *extra packed* with Traumatic experiences. Ultimately it was inspiring because I consider myself a "late bloomer" too. I'm 38 and still figuring out a lot about myself. Mostly this book brings me comfort because I think of myself as a 'misery loves company' kind of person. I certainly do not want other people to have experienced what I have but it feels good to know I'm not alone in how deeply affected I am by what happened to me. The author having addressed a lot of her trauma in a healthy, effective way is also wonderful to see because a lot of content online doesn't reflect this possibility. I'm lucky enough to have also accessed a resource that has brought me more peace. It's nice to see someone else find some peace after decades of trauma-induced difficulties. I would hope she can inspire other people to feel there's light at the end of the tunnel. Unfortunately, we don't all have the privilege to access such resources. 

I appreciate that the author kept her chapters short as that helped to keep my attention. Conversely, I would say I prefer slightly more detailed writing styles so I'm giving this 4 stars. The author is neurodivergent so I think her writing style and the audience she's trying to capture affect how short the chapters are.  I have a tendency to want long, detailed metaphorical descriptions.

[Katie McMullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. It was really validating to identify so strongly with Cindy's journey even though, despite some important commonalities, we've had reasonably different lives. But that's not the only reason I liked it.

This book is a great example of "form mimics content." It's a neurodivergence memoir written in a very neurodivergent, and neurodivergent-friendly, way. Yes I recognize that that sentence was redundant.

The vignettes are all pretty short so you can really focus on them. But they're also densely packed with intense meaning and image. You get a whole-ass scene from just half a page sometimes. They're earnest and they're genuine. It's very clear what Cindy is getting at in each one, there's no dancing around the bush about things. And taken all together, the vignettes proceed according to their own logic to paint a very crisp and coherent picture of Cindy's story. Maybe like pointillism or something?

And despite the earnestness, I feel the realness of Cindy's story. Like, I feel she's being real with me. When other writers try earnestness it can sometimes come off smarmy or preachy or weird. But Cindy is direct because Cindy is direct. That's how she is and that's how her vignettes are, but since she has lived such a varied life with so many events, digressions, adventures, anticlimaxes ... etc, there still is quite a journey to go on in this memoir.

And as a neuro-curious person (is that a thing? it's gotta be because that's what I am) that's the part of this book that I identify with the most- the directness and the naked depth she's going for. It's a thing I think weirds people out about my own self. Always wanting to be earnest, to get to the meaning of things, to dig deeper, and especially to do better. Without an alternative motive, without all the other games that can go on. What is the deal with that?? I don't know. It just is.

I think some neurodiverse brains be like that and this neurodivergence book be like that too. Enjoy.

[Alysia Moran · Rating 1 out of 5]

I really did not like this book. Initially, I found it annoying. There are obvious grammatical errors and typos that are not purposeful, and the vignettes were too brief and would intrigue me but then end abruptly leaving me feeling like ummm okay guess I don’t get the full story there. And at first I was like well okay, that distracted writing style goes with the title… “lacks focus”…but going from nonchalantly discussing rape to IBS to the military to constant crying to family just wasn’t for me. So I was thinking 2/5 for most of the book. Until I got to the freaking mushroom chapters. This woman literally has a chapter that details how to grow magic mushrooms. I literally skimmed and skipped it. Idgaf about the soil type needed. Then the mushroom chapters were significantly longer than the other chapters and detail off the wall hallucinations she had? I get what she was trying to do with showing how the drugs taught her things she didn’t know, but I really did not like it. I found them annoyingly long and not interesting. Those made me actually really dislike the book to the point that I kind of wish I had not read it…so sorry if this is harsh bc it is a memoir but I’m really not a fan.

[Bernadette · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have only recently been coming to terms with the fact that I have autism. I've been seeking a lot of media that deals with autism and women which is how I came across Cindy's Instagram account, which I find to be hilarious and poignant. Her memoir is also hilarious and poignant.

I felt that this memoir related more to her ADHD struggles than it did her autistic struggles, and because I do not have ADHD, I found it hard to relate to a lot of the things she was going through. This did not take away from the power of her story but I felt that it had much more to do with her relationships and her family upbringing than autistic struggles specifically, which is what I was looking for and why I rated it 3 stars. I did absolutely cry from the story about meeting with the Hypnotist in the Airbnb Barn. And I do indeed think inner child work is absolutely important to our healing as Autists. I am not into mushrooms though, and the book ends on that.

She is absolutely an excellent storyteller. If you are looking for one woman's story of growing up with neurodivergence and how she has conquered her life, managed a relationship as well as being a mother, this is the story for you.

I was gifted an arc by the author in exchange for this review.

[Kira O · Rating 3 out of 5]

„I have released shame so my gift no longer behaves as a curse. I can now use my gift to tell others that they are not the failure/monster/mistake the world tells them they are.“

Was ich aus dem Buch mitnehme (gleichzeitig die Pros & cons):

Underrated: Memoir-Bücher, Scham loswerden, Grenzen setzen, weinen, Intuition, Ausruhen, eigene Befreiung von Traumata und Daddy-/ Mommy-Issues im Memoir beschreiben

Overrated: Eigene Shrooms anbauen, um Einsichten ins Unterbewusstsein zu bekommen (?); random Sprünge im Memoir (i know das ist irgendwie der Sinn dieses Buches, aber es verwirrt mich); eigene Befreiung von Traumata und co. im Memoir beschreiben & ein bisschen zu pathetisch & unselbstkritisch sein (i‘m sorry)

Aber:

„It‘s about you believing you‘re worthy of telling your whole story.“

[Zeni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not really a memoir girly, but loved how raw and unfiltered this one was. The short chapters made it engaging and so easy to read.

[Ariel Pandachuck · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an advanced reader copy (ARC) for this book. I follow the author on Instagram and was excited when she posted we could sign up to get one, as I love her posts.

Going in, I was sceptical because sometimes memoirs can be hit or miss, but for me this book was a hit! I had thought it would take me a few days to read but I just couldn’t stop and read it all in one night!

The author does not ramble on like some memoirs. Her chapters are to the point, but still give a full picture. Every chapter served a purpose and felt like it belonged, which is rare for me when I read memoirs.

Cindy, has a lovely way of combining serious matters with some tongue-in-cheek comments to provide some relief when reading about sensitive subjects.

Her stories were very relatable to me, a newly diagnosed neurodivergent. A lot of the things she pointed out in her thought patterns matched mine and I loved how she demonstrated ways in which she faced those thoughts head on and changed her inner narrative.

I recommend this book for any adults that are neurodivergent. It has relatable stories and how a real person dealt with them. Cindy is honest and open about her thoughts, feelings, and experiences giving me a true representation of a neurodivergent person like myself.

Cindy, thank you for being so open and honest by showing all the raw details of your life without sugar coating them. You have made me feel as though I am not alone in some of my thoughts and provided some insights of ways in which I too can deal with them.

Note: I was provided an Advanced Readers Copy (ARC)

[Daleen Torres · Rating 5 out of 5]

This memoir offers a rare and invaluable perspective on healing from trauma, from the perspective of neurodiversity. Robinson’s candid exploration of her past trauma and how she healed, combined with her lighthearted narration, made the difficult topic accessible. Often times, it felt like an intimate conversation with a friend, as she shared her thought processes throughout the book. While not a practical guide, I often found myself reflecting on my personal healing journey.

I’m glad I read this book and saw how it’s possible for people, especially neurodivergent, to find our own version of peace inside our often chaotic minds. I would recommend it to anyone seeking solace and understanding in their own personal path to healing.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to read this insightful memoir. Thank you for the advanced reader copy.

[Cate Blouke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely, interestingly written memoir. The structure does feel a bit disjointed at times and there are a lot of gaps I would have wanted to know more about - and/but/also, I feel like that’s a kind of direct insight into an ADHD brain (at least how mine often works).

In many ways, this is mostly a book about sexual abuse and assault and the subsequent PTSD. So if you’re reading this review, consider that your content warning.

I follow the author on Instagram and really wanted to support her work. Our stories are radically different, but I’m grateful for the ways in which I nevertheless felt seen/could identify with the experiences of confusion, frustration, and absolute “why the f*ck am I like this” that having a neurodivergent brain entails. Glad to have more books like this out in the world, and I deeply appreciate the vulnerability involved in writing/sharing it with us strangers.

[Allison Hare · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book read where you could literally see Cindy's entire life play out in a beautifully cinematic unfolding. I was given an ARC of the book and couldn't put it down. I read it on airplanes, in the waiting room at doctor's office, everywhere. Cindy's account of her life as a mostly undiagnosed neurodivergent in a world where she internalized every aspect and her undoing of it all was masterfully written. First of all, the writing is brilliant and hilarious which makes some of the brutality of what she experienced go down a little easier. Secondly, the Easter eggs of profound wisdom that she unearthed at the end is not to be missed. And not only that, I think it's a big lesson that we can all benefit from applying that I didn't want to skip over. I am shouting from the rooftops on this one. Cindy's memoir is a masterpiece!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was provided an advanced reading copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review.

I found Cindy through her Instagram, like other reviewers, and her content is very relatable and funny. The book is written in little vignettes that show important moments in her life. I loved the honesty with which this was written. She didn’t shy away from the ugly or traumatic events that happened. From where the book (and her story) started and where it ended up, I felt really proud of her. Really proud of what’s she’s worked with and is working with and has overcome. If you relate to any of the issues or thought patterns that she mentions in the book I think you end up feeling a lot of hope about your own situation too. I would definitely recommend reading this if you are neurodivergent.

[Bridget Holschier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced readers copy (ARC) of this book. In Bright Girl, Lacks Focus Cindy takes us on a journey through her life, traumas and healing. Although being obviously written by someone with ADHD, it is very much for an ADHD audience with its short chapters (that leave you saying “just one more” until 3am). BUT it is also for people without ADHD as this is one of the most accurate perspectives of what it’s like going through life with, I’m going to say it again, ADHD. This book made me laugh, feel the feels and cry for both young and adult Cindy. Looking back on this read, I have no negative feelings or criticism to give. I feel seen and I would recommend Bright Girl, Lacks Focus to anyone that loves memoirs, self-love or is interested in anything neurodiverse.

[Jeannine Jannot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bright Girl, Lacks Focus is a story of courage and strength that will stay with readers long after they finish the book.

Cindy’s journey is about overcoming adversity, facing challenges, and ultimately finding resilience and gratitude. Her writing beautifully conveys the complexities of her experiences with raw emotion, vulnerability, and humor. It was hard to put down!

Whether you are looking for a story of resilience, inspiration, or simply a beautifully written memoir, Cindy Robinson's book is a must-read. Don't miss out on this powerful and unforgettable story.

[I was given an ARC to review prior to the book’s release.]

[Katey · Rating 5 out of 5]

The writing was a little bit choppy, but I honestly do not care for once. I have never felt so seen in my life— as a 30 yr old woman with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and probably also pure-O OCD this book has made me feel more normal than I have ever felt in my entire life. The quiet, small secret “cute little quirks” that I’ve shamefully kept hidden inside since adolescence because I thought that no one else could possibly understand me are written about in this book and it both shocked and validated me. Honestly, if someone ever wants to understand the way my mind works I’m going to tell them to read this book.

[Amber Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read which is incredibly well written, but it goes above and beyond that in terms of its relatability and depth of ADHD perception. After reading this, as they say these days ‘I feel seen’ - which if you knew me at all, you’d realise was an exceptional and very rare thing! Highly recommended read for anyone who is themselves an ADHD woman, or who has an ADHD or suspected ADHD female in their life - of all the many books about ADHD I’ve read, this has been the most insightful and relatable.

[Ratherthecouch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore Cindy's authentic and hilarious Instagram posts and was super excited to read her memoir. Not surprisingly, the language and story were both vulnerable and accessible. I found so much relatable - the imposter syndrome of writing, the intrusive thoughts of OCD, finding "clear your mind" meditation completely absurd, moments so full of shame I wished I could blame my essence on a drug addiction.

I thought it was an honest and straightforward story about healing from trauma, primarily. ADHD and OCD were also present, but as a secondary theme, from my perspective. (No judgement on that order. Just framing it so that the right readers find it. And, of course, there is often overlap...) I suspect anyone on their own healing journey or anyone who has ever felt othered in some way will find comfort in the relatability and hope within this book. I would also recommend it to anyone who is interested in learning about the nervous system and the therapeutic use of psychedelic mushrooms.

I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful, emotional, and healing story. This book has altered my brain and life forever. I’ve never felt more seen or understood. Thank you Cindy, for sharing your story, your vulnerability, and your authenticity - in a witty and captivating manner! Love a fellow wildflower and wildflower finder!

[Alexandra Kopstad · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone uncovering the impact of neurodivergence in shaping their own life, I found this book incredibly relatable, funny, heart-warming, and heartbreaking all at the same time. This book is truly written for the wildflowers growing tall despite it all. Thank you, Cindy, for taking us on your journey with you.

[Nina A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished this book in a little over a day and WOW. I felt hugged by the authors words. The vulnerability, the pace, the symbolism balanced with her casual style - as a memoir fan (similar to the author), this memoir was a beautiful blend of accessible, memorable and reflective. I’m grateful for this memoir’s ability to put words to what I thought to be niche, internal experiences. Thank you Cindy!

[Buz James · Rating 1 out of 5]

The sole good thing about this book is the title and that gets my 1 star. There’s a glaring typo in the first paragraph of the foreword (Nazi’s) and it only gets worse from there. I managed to read about 10 “chapters” (each 2-3 pages) then had to put it down which I think is the quickest I’ve ever DNFed a book.

[Morgan Clifton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was truly eye opening to the experience of neurodivergence. Cindy’s first hand account of her story is beautifully conveyed with a mix of humor and serious reflection. A quick and enjoyable read which will leave you feeling understanding and empathetic.

[Rachel Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

A searingly real telling of trying to look like you've got it all together when your childhood, family and inner self are all totally chaotic. The author's honesty about her affection for problematic loved ones, her shame and struggles, and her winding path to saving herself is beautifully told.

[Katerina Reem · Rating 3 out of 5]

This memoir is purely a woman’s personal experience on how growing up neurodivergent (particularly with ADHD) has impacted her life, but also how she’s been able to manage it, now as a wife and a mother.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! An AMAZING story in so many ways! A survival story that had me laughing and crying. I read it in one sitting!

[Annie Hysaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

All of the feelings. Insane to read a story so similar to my own. So grateful to feel connected - like someone out there might understand what it’s like to be me.

[Nicole Sparlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

wow

I've never related so much with an author. she picked words and whole feelings even, right out of my brain. I'm in awe. what a great book.

[Jessie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much! It’s one of my new favorites.

[Holly Fasteson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book was like reading my life story. I have never felt more seen. Thank you.

[Lily Staines · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book set me free.