Author(s): Sonny Jane Wise

Disability Studies | 2023 Staff Top Picks | 2023 Top 30

"Neurodiversity has helped me understand myself and provided a sense of relief that I'm a whole neurodivergent person functioning as my brain intends."

"It's provided me with the language to advocate for myself."

"I no longer hated myself. I no longer felt broken. I found a sense of community. A sense of belonging"

This affirming and thoughtful guide outlines how and why we need to fundamentally shift our thinking about neurodivergent people. We need to accept differences rather than framing them as a problem, abnormality or disorder. Welcome to the neurodiversity paradigm.

At times challenging and radical, Sonny Jane Wise explores the intersections of neurodivergence with disability, gender, sexuality and race. Through interviews, narratives, and the lens of their own raw experiences, they consider how current systems and structures that impact neurodivergent people are rooted in outdated capitalist and racist frameworks, and how these need to change and adapt to be neurodiversity affirming. Sonny Jane's words are a rallying cry to challenge the pathology paradigm. And instead offers nine principles for facilitating change with core values that are reflected in deeply personal stories from the neurodivergent community.

Powerful and persuasive, this book is a clarion call for a kinder and more neurodiversity affirming society.

Top 3 pick from Sage
"Sonny Jane Wise reframes thinking about neurodivergent people in this book that shares the many different perspectives, and experiences, of neurodiversity. I thought this was the perfect introduction to learning the history of neurodiversity, and the possibilities for the future. With many opportunities for self-reflection, as well as practical tips and clear principles, this book is a powerful move towards a neurodiversity affirming society. I look forward to sharing this with friends and family, medical professionals, and anyone who wants to understand my brain."