Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a chance to celebrate a wonderful community through their authors and their books. It is a week-long observance that celebrates the neurodiversity movement and promotes awareness and acceptance of different neurological conditions, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette’s syndrome. This event is typically held in March or April each year and features various activities, events, and initiatives to raise awareness about neurodiversity and promote understanding and inclusion of neurodivergent individuals. 

It aims to highlight the strengths and talents of neurodivergent individuals and challenge negative stereotypes and stigma associated with neurological differences. The specific activities and events may vary depending on the organisation or community organising the event, but they often include educational workshops, guest speakers, art exhibits, social events, and advocacy initiatives.

Neurodiversity is the concept that differences in neurological functioning should be recognised and respected as part of human diversity, rather than being seen as disorders or deficits. This includes conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette’s syndrome, and others.

Books for Neurodiversity Celebration Week

There are many nonfiction books on the topic of neurodiversity, and some popular ones have been suggested by members of the Vanderbilt University’s Autism & Neurodiversity Alliance as well as the NeuroDivergent Rebel:

• 📚 “NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity” by Steve Silberman. This book explores the history of autism research and advocacy and argues for a shift in thinking towards neurodiversity.
• 📚 “The ADHD Advantage: What You Thought Was a Diagnosis May Be Your Greatest Strength” by Dale Archer. Consequently, this book discusses the strengths and advantages of ADHD, rather than focusing solely on its challenges.
• 📚 “Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism” by Barry Prizant. The author basically challenges the medical model of autism and offers a more positive and inclusive approach.
• 📚 “Different: The Story of an Outside-the-Box Kid and the Mom Who Loved Him” by Sally Clarkson and Nathan Clarkson. This memoir tells the story of Nathan, who was diagnosed with ADHD. Subsequently his mother has to learn to accept and celebrate his differences.
• 📚 “Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism” by Temple Grandin. This memoir by a renowned autism advocate and professor offers insights into the experience of thinking in visual images. In reality, it is known to be a common trait among people with autism.
• 📚 “The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy with Autism” by Naoki Higashida. It is a poignant and insightful memoir written by 13-year-old boy Higashida who lives with autism. Through a series of questions and answers, he provides readers with a glimpse into his mind. Thus he offers a unique perspective on the joys and challenges of living with autism.

To that end, remember to check out the episode on allyship and the importance of being an advocate for marginal communities!

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