What do you think?
Rate this book
The Pocket Guide to Neurodiversity
At least one in seven people are thought to be neurodivergent. So what exactly is neurodiversity? What does 'executive functioning' mean? What are 'spiky profiles'?
In this simple guide, expert speaker and trainer Daniel Aherne provides a clear introduction to neurodiversity and the four most common neurodivergent identities of autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia. Using an analogy of a cactus needing a desert to grow in, he emphasises the importance of getting the environment right for neurodivergent people, rather than expecting them to adapt to the neurotypical world. Daniel, who himself has ADHD, also explains how neurodivergent people often have great strengths alongside areas of difficulty, and writes about the interplay between diagnoses, as well as unpacking tricky concepts such as working memory, sensory processing, communication differences and more.
Busting common misconceptions and setting out simple tips and guidance for supporting the neurodivergent people around you, whether among your family, friends or at your school, college or workplace - or if you yourself are ND and want to improve the understanding of others - this essential guide will help us all celebrate neurodiversity and foster more inclusive communities.
In this simple guide, expert speaker and trainer Daniel Aherne provides a clear introduction to neurodiversity and the four most common neurodivergent identities of autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia. Using an analogy of a cactus needing a desert to grow in, he emphasises the importance of getting the environment right for neurodivergent people, rather than expecting them to adapt to the neurotypical world. Daniel, who himself has ADHD, also explains how neurodivergent people often have great strengths alongside areas of difficulty, and writes about the interplay between diagnoses, as well as unpacking tricky concepts such as working memory, sensory processing, communication differences and more.
Busting common misconceptions and setting out simple tips and guidance for supporting the neurodivergent people around you, whether among your family, friends or at your school, college or workplace - or if you yourself are ND and want to improve the understanding of others - this essential guide will help us all celebrate neurodiversity and foster more inclusive communities.
128 pages, Paperback
Published January 19, 2023
21 people are currently reading
204 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 20, 2023
Thank you to John Murray Press UK and NetGalley for access to an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A great intro to some of the more common neurodiversities.
The author shows his background as a workplace educator with in depth knowledge, and advice on how to interact with and aid neurodiverse individuals in the workplace.
The book does skew a bit extremely towards this angle, and thus presents a very narrow approach to interacting with neurodiverse people. It is is also definitely written for a neurotypical audience, and does not mention the existence of neurodiversities beyond the few (most well known) which it discusses.
However, as a pocket guide, and for those who know very little about the subject, this is a great starting point for folks looking to learn.
4/5
A great intro to some of the more common neurodiversities.
The author shows his background as a workplace educator with in depth knowledge, and advice on how to interact with and aid neurodiverse individuals in the workplace.
The book does skew a bit extremely towards this angle, and thus presents a very narrow approach to interacting with neurodiverse people. It is is also definitely written for a neurotypical audience, and does not mention the existence of neurodiversities beyond the few (most well known) which it discusses.
However, as a pocket guide, and for those who know very little about the subject, this is a great starting point for folks looking to learn.
4/5
January 25, 2023
This is a really helpful starting point if you know very little about neurodiversity. It’s clear and explains multiple positions about language and helpful accommodations. It’s one for teachers and colleagues and family members who have no idea what anything is.
If you are solidly informed about neurodiversity, there is a lot less in here for you. I also found that there was repetition of odd details like the examples of famous people who are neurodivergent. Depending on your politics, you may also not enjoy some of the “role models” like Elon Musk and Richard Branson.
Would absolutely have in my office to share as a starting points but did not feel like this was written for people who are neurodivergent (even though the author is.)
If you are solidly informed about neurodiversity, there is a lot less in here for you. I also found that there was repetition of odd details like the examples of famous people who are neurodivergent. Depending on your politics, you may also not enjoy some of the “role models” like Elon Musk and Richard Branson.
Would absolutely have in my office to share as a starting points but did not feel like this was written for people who are neurodivergent (even though the author is.)
August 4, 2024
This introductory book provides valuable tips and information to help you develop a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and adapt to a neurodivergent framework for approaching the world. By doing so, you can contribute to creating a more inclusive environment simply by being more aware of the people around you. The book primarily focuses on four key conditions: Dyslexia, Autism Spectrum, ADHD, and Dyspraxia.
The author offers insightful explanations of each condition, exploring how they affect working memory, cognitive processing, and emotions. The book also provides practical and helpful adaptations that can be implemented to support individuals with these conditions.
Overall, this pocket guide is a quick and informative read that can help you better understand and support neurodivergent individuals, making it a great resource for anyone looking to promote inclusivity and acceptance.
The author offers insightful explanations of each condition, exploring how they affect working memory, cognitive processing, and emotions. The book also provides practical and helpful adaptations that can be implemented to support individuals with these conditions.
Overall, this pocket guide is a quick and informative read that can help you better understand and support neurodivergent individuals, making it a great resource for anyone looking to promote inclusivity and acceptance.
Read
June 7, 2024There wasn’t much information in this book that was new to me, but I can see this being a great introduction to neurodiversity for someone who doesn’t know a whole lot about the concept. I did also really enjoy the author’s little personal anecdotes about his experience working in the field of neurodivergent advocacy. I’m not going to rate this book because I don’t know how many stars to give a book that I personally didn’t take a whole lot away from, but nonetheless see as a very valuable resource.
May 7, 2023
It was an easy but informative read. While not specifically tailored to inform teachers I picked up a few specific strategies to support my neurodivergent students.
December 8, 2023
This was very basic, entry level guide. I loved that each chapter had examples, summaries, and questions to reflect and act on. Really good for what it was.
January 12, 2023
This is an excellent introduction and possible go to starting point for everyone meeting neurodiverse people. I listened to the audio version at my comfortable listening speed and it only took me an hour to finish the book the first time, a well spent hour; I’m going to listen again as there was so much good information presented. As we all constantly meet neurodiverse people, knowingly or unknowingly, diagnosed and undiagnosed, this is actually a book everyone should read and have access to. As a teacher I realise everyone has a different way of handling the world; my viewpoint is just that mine. I am always looking for resources to expand my knowledge in this area of neurodiversity to help me understand and consider how I can change things I have control over to help others who experience and handle the world from their individual and therefore probably different viewpoint. This book gave me a lot to think about, and ideas to try and put into practise with the pupils I meet. But it also highlights the issues beyond school. In my role as a Union Official I can see this book having a direct positive impact for employees, HR, managers and directors of public and private businesses and organisations. Thank you to John Murray PressUK Audio and NetGalley for the audio ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
January 19, 2023
This is an incredible guide to understanding those who are neurodivergent in a multitude of everyday scenarios. I loved how concise yet empathetic this was. It’s also grounded with a ton of recent, relevant, and vetted information. I wish I had access to this when I managed! Because it really helps me understand certain personalities/ work habits I’ve encountered. I also liked how the author ended with encouraging readers to start the journey with studying neurodivergence and that the learning shouldn’t stop with this book. Thank you to Netgalley and John Murray Press UK Audio for this ARC.
October 8, 2024
Mehr als interessant lässt sich zu dem Buch eigentlich eh nicht wirklich sagen… und lehrreich.
January 29, 2023
The Pocket Guide to Neurodiversity by Daniel Aherne
Published 19 Jan 2023
This is a quick #audiobook explaining a lot of what I am trying to learn about ADHD.
It has summaries after each chapter which I found quite helpful. It being a pocket guide makes it easy for me to refer to it and or #audiobook it again. I felt like I attended a webinar on #Neurodiversity. This is a great guide to add to my research resources.
I highly recommend it. #ThePocketGuidetoNeurodiversity #NetGalley
A simple guide to neurodiversity, demystifying ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia and more.
At least one in seven people are thought to be neurodivergent. So what exactly is neurodiversity? What does 'executive functioning' mean? What are 'spiky profiles'?
In this simple guide, expert speaker and trainer Daniel Aherne provides a clear introduction to neurodiversity and the four most common neurodivergent identities of autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia. Using an analogy of a cactus needing a desert to grow in, he emphasizes the importance of getting the environment right for neurodivergent people, rather than expecting them to adapt to the neurotypical world. Daniel, who himself has ADHD, also explains how neurodivergent people often have great strengths alongside areas of difficulty, and writes about the interplay between diagnoses, as well as unpacking tricky concepts such as working memory, sensory processing, communication differences and more.
Busting common misconceptions and setting out simple tips and guidance for supporting the neurodivergent people around you, whether among your family, friends or at your school, college or workplace - or if you yourself are ND and want to improve the understanding of others - this essential guide will help us all celebrate neurodiversity and foster more inclusive communities.
Published 19 Jan 2023
This is a quick #audiobook explaining a lot of what I am trying to learn about ADHD.
It has summaries after each chapter which I found quite helpful. It being a pocket guide makes it easy for me to refer to it and or #audiobook it again. I felt like I attended a webinar on #Neurodiversity. This is a great guide to add to my research resources.
I highly recommend it. #ThePocketGuidetoNeurodiversity #NetGalley
A simple guide to neurodiversity, demystifying ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia and more.
At least one in seven people are thought to be neurodivergent. So what exactly is neurodiversity? What does 'executive functioning' mean? What are 'spiky profiles'?
In this simple guide, expert speaker and trainer Daniel Aherne provides a clear introduction to neurodiversity and the four most common neurodivergent identities of autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia. Using an analogy of a cactus needing a desert to grow in, he emphasizes the importance of getting the environment right for neurodivergent people, rather than expecting them to adapt to the neurotypical world. Daniel, who himself has ADHD, also explains how neurodivergent people often have great strengths alongside areas of difficulty, and writes about the interplay between diagnoses, as well as unpacking tricky concepts such as working memory, sensory processing, communication differences and more.
Busting common misconceptions and setting out simple tips and guidance for supporting the neurodivergent people around you, whether among your family, friends or at your school, college or workplace - or if you yourself are ND and want to improve the understanding of others - this essential guide will help us all celebrate neurodiversity and foster more inclusive communities.
February 6, 2025
Um, so I read this in 1 day😭. Was leaving the library, and I saw this out the corner of my eye. I knew immediately I wanted to read it. Took me about 2 hours. Tbh, I think my attention span abandoned me because the book was written in Dyslexia friendly format, and I'm not even Dyslexic it was just so much easier to read!?
Despite only being a pocket guide, this book was so informative! I enjoyed reading it and the different types of Neurodiversity. I learnt a lot of tips for myself, too. I loved how the author included summaries and reflection questions at the end of each chapter because it triggers you to really start questioning what you read and maintain that information.
The layout was great. Each chapter had a bold heading, and the font was so satisfying to read. Also, the pictures were attention grabbing. Also, a little detail I loved was that the author quoted the books/podcasts they referenced, so I'm so excited to check them out.
Finally, I enjoyed this book because it didn't feel like I was reading with no hope. Each problem proposed was presented with a few solutions. I felt the authors passion to really solutionise the problems Neurodivergent people face in society/the workplace. I think the book is written really well. Even if you're no Neurodiverse, I highly recommend this book. They get straight to the point, and it never feels like it's dragging on either.
Despite only being a pocket guide, this book was so informative! I enjoyed reading it and the different types of Neurodiversity. I learnt a lot of tips for myself, too. I loved how the author included summaries and reflection questions at the end of each chapter because it triggers you to really start questioning what you read and maintain that information.
The layout was great. Each chapter had a bold heading, and the font was so satisfying to read. Also, the pictures were attention grabbing. Also, a little detail I loved was that the author quoted the books/podcasts they referenced, so I'm so excited to check them out.
Finally, I enjoyed this book because it didn't feel like I was reading with no hope. Each problem proposed was presented with a few solutions. I felt the authors passion to really solutionise the problems Neurodivergent people face in society/the workplace. I think the book is written really well. Even if you're no Neurodiverse, I highly recommend this book. They get straight to the point, and it never feels like it's dragging on either.
May 10, 2023
This review is purely only for the audiobook version of the book. The author has done a decent job of providing information regarding Neurodiversity, but at the end of every chapter, that is a complete summary of everything that we just heard. Given that the chapters are not that long, it felt a little repetitive.
This is a beginning primer to the concept of Neurodiversity and the different ways that it is classified, and what that means for a neurodivergent person. The author works in the field and is actively part of ensuring that there are measures in place to bridge the gaps that are caused by differences in understanding. It also has basic things that can be implemented to make it easier for everyone to work at the same thing.
It is not a long volume, with very succinct information regarding anything a beginner would want to know about Neurodiversity.
The book is read by the author, and I think people who are curious about the topic but have not found an appropriate way to look into it will find this helpful.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own listening experience.
https://superfluousreading.wordpress....
This is a beginning primer to the concept of Neurodiversity and the different ways that it is classified, and what that means for a neurodivergent person. The author works in the field and is actively part of ensuring that there are measures in place to bridge the gaps that are caused by differences in understanding. It also has basic things that can be implemented to make it easier for everyone to work at the same thing.
It is not a long volume, with very succinct information regarding anything a beginner would want to know about Neurodiversity.
The book is read by the author, and I think people who are curious about the topic but have not found an appropriate way to look into it will find this helpful.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own listening experience.
https://superfluousreading.wordpress....
January 15, 2023
“A simple guide to neurodiversity, demystifying ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia and more.“
This teeny tiny tome would be a great starting place for any business owner, employer, teacher, team leader, etc., who understands that everyone’s brains work differently, and that supporting those with neurodivergence helps, not only the individual, but the organization.
Happy, supported employees are happy, productive employees.
Focusing mainly on dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and dyspraxia (issues with movement and coordination), this work won’t give you everything you need on this subject, but it gives you a great springboard for furthering knowledge.
My favourite part, was the cactus metaphor.
Similar to the idea that “judging a fish by its ability to climb a tree” is ridiculous, this analogy says, “You wouldn’t blame the Arizona cactus for not thriving through a Canadian winter.”
It’s a problem with environment, not the plant itself.
8/10
Thanks to NetGalley and John Murray Press UK Audio for this helpful ARC.
This teeny tiny tome would be a great starting place for any business owner, employer, teacher, team leader, etc., who understands that everyone’s brains work differently, and that supporting those with neurodivergence helps, not only the individual, but the organization.
Happy, supported employees are happy, productive employees.
Focusing mainly on dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and dyspraxia (issues with movement and coordination), this work won’t give you everything you need on this subject, but it gives you a great springboard for furthering knowledge.
My favourite part, was the cactus metaphor.
Similar to the idea that “judging a fish by its ability to climb a tree” is ridiculous, this analogy says, “You wouldn’t blame the Arizona cactus for not thriving through a Canadian winter.”
It’s a problem with environment, not the plant itself.
8/10
Thanks to NetGalley and John Murray Press UK Audio for this helpful ARC.
January 25, 2023
I listened to the NetGalley audiobook and it is so interesting. Conditions such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia and Dyspraxia are covered and explained in an easy to understand way and there are key takeaways and points to consider. The book's structure is excellent and Daniel Aherne narrates well.
I have Cerebral Palsy and Hydrocephalus. I hate loud or sudden noise, some food textures and being interrupted or not given time to speak. I've noticed these are neurodiverse traits thanks to this book.
Thanks to Daniel Aherne and publisher for this book in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars.
I have Cerebral Palsy and Hydrocephalus. I hate loud or sudden noise, some food textures and being interrupted or not given time to speak. I've noticed these are neurodiverse traits thanks to this book.
Thanks to Daniel Aherne and publisher for this book in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars.
January 17, 2023
Review copy from NetGalley.
I really enjoyed this. If someone was after an introductory text on the topic, I would give them this without hesitation. It covers a few different types of neurodivergence (with most of the focus being on Autism and ADHD) with enough depth to convey an understanding, but without getting bogged down in detail. I liked how Aherne didn't generalise too much, which is a common issue I see in similar works and treated neurodiverse people as individuals.
The audiobook is very easy to digest and narrated by the author himself, so I'd recommend it.
I really enjoyed this. If someone was after an introductory text on the topic, I would give them this without hesitation. It covers a few different types of neurodivergence (with most of the focus being on Autism and ADHD) with enough depth to convey an understanding, but without getting bogged down in detail. I liked how Aherne didn't generalise too much, which is a common issue I see in similar works and treated neurodiverse people as individuals.
The audiobook is very easy to digest and narrated by the author himself, so I'd recommend it.
February 18, 2023
The structure of this book was spot on. It was informative, interesting and leaves you with ‘take aways’ to make you stop and think how you can use the new knowledge given in everyday lives.
I loved the way this book celebrates the skills and talents that neurodivergent people may have. It works hard to move away from negative thinking around neurodiversity. A very useful book for anyone to read.
I loved the way this book celebrates the skills and talents that neurodivergent people may have. It works hard to move away from negative thinking around neurodiversity. A very useful book for anyone to read.
February 22, 2023
A well written introduction to neurodiversity for those who may want to know a little bit more about how society can change work places etc to support neurodiversity better. This wee book would be a good place to start to learn how some people see and experience the world differently I'd recommend further reading on other neurodiversities as only dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD and autism are included.
Dyslexia friendly text which made me give an extra ⭐
Dyslexia friendly text which made me give an extra ⭐
January 15, 2023
An informative guide book on the basics of neurodiversity. An essential read for anyone working with people, either in HR or as team lead.
I was glad to see - and hear - that the author himself reads out the audio version. This makes it even more authentic. The language is simple, easy to follow, and the takeaway is lots of useful practical suggestions on how to understand better neurodivergent people, and how to make small adjustments to make a business environment more inclusive.
Many thanks to NetGalley and John Murray Press UK Audio for an Advance Review Copy.
I was glad to see - and hear - that the author himself reads out the audio version. This makes it even more authentic. The language is simple, easy to follow, and the takeaway is lots of useful practical suggestions on how to understand better neurodivergent people, and how to make small adjustments to make a business environment more inclusive.
Many thanks to NetGalley and John Murray Press UK Audio for an Advance Review Copy.
August 17, 2024
A short and sweet introduction to neurodiversity for employers and friends of neurodivergents. The book focuses mainly on ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, and the common overlap of these diagnoses. A great and quick read for anyone interested in better understanding neurodiversity and celebrating neuroinclusion.
February 7, 2023
I really enjoyed this clear and concise guide to the various forms of neurodiversity and what a neurotypical person can do to create a more inclusive environment. I would recommend this to anyone looking for introductory reading on this topic.
Thank you John Murray Press UK for the review copy.
Thank you John Murray Press UK for the review copy.
January 25, 2023
This was a fantastic bite-sized introduction into neurodiversity. My daughter is autistic and I'd love to be able to hand the book out to people she meets to allow them some understanding of the challenges she faces and how they might help her.
I liked how it was kept simple, digestible, and easy to follow (and to dip in and out of), but remained informative, and the author (and narrator of the audiobook) was clearly passionate and knowledge on the subject.
A very good guide.
I liked how it was kept simple, digestible, and easy to follow (and to dip in and out of), but remained informative, and the author (and narrator of the audiobook) was clearly passionate and knowledge on the subject.
A very good guide.
May 2, 2023
A really helpful insight. Would definitely recommend.
July 7, 2023
Very enlightening about common neurodivergent behaviors. A short guide to understand the basics.
September 21, 2023
I found this book to be more about political ideology than science, and had limited information on the medical side of neurodivergence.
September 27, 2023
Very short book - useful insights re interrupting, memory, processing, masking and emotional dysregulation.
November 25, 2023
An elementary introduction to neurodiversity, perfect for employers but not suitable for allied health professionals.
January 23, 2024
Quick easy educational read. Will add more later.
April 21, 2024
Wonderful introduction to neurodiversity. Some great tips. Well worth the read.
June 23, 2024
It was an easy but informative read. This book would be a great first dive into learning about neurodiversity.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews