18/08/2026
I have had the absolute pleasure of reading Different Minds by Peter Wharmby ahead of publication.
Here is my review:
Teachers, students, parents of neurodivergent children - whether in mainstream school or not, members of the neurodivergent community, and our allies and advocates (in a time when they are so desperately needed), I implore you to read this book!
Pete uses the fictional neurodivergent pupil ‘Joe’ as a case study in a candid exploration of the obstacles, struggles and challenges of a typical school day. Set out in bitesize chunks, Different Minds is engaging and easy-to-digest, with cost-effective, uncomplicated suggestions for adjustments in each chapter.
Previously a school teacher, and diagnosed with AuDHD himself, Pete comes at the topic with the empathy, compassion and comprehension of someone who has lived experience from both the teacher and the student’s perspective. This gives him valuable insight into how the school day and environment can be improved, taking into account the emotional, sensory and phsyical needs of the pupils, as well as the practical and financial considerations of the school.
My personal favourite was the section where Pete likens the autistic experience of being treated as ‘other’ and ‘different’ by society to the Uncanny Valley effect. This really resonated with me, and was an eloquent description of an intangible experience I have tried (and failed) to explain myself in the past.
In a world seemingly hell-bent on dismissing autistic lived experience, Different Minds is a rallying, refreshing read, full of hope that things CAN get better, and Pete Wharmby is a steadfast and impassioned spearhead for AuDHD advocacy.
If you want to pre-order a copy before publication on 3rd September, you can do it here (link in bio): https://www.quinnsbookshop.co.uk/product/different-minds-how-we-can-help-our-autistic-school-children-thrive-by-pete-wharmby/MJ4LT6QPCUYQR4IALH73C3S6?cs=true&cst=custom
