ADHD is Awesome: A Guide to (Mostly) Thriving with ADHD – A Personal Reflection
When I picked up ADHD is Awesome: A Guide to (Mostly) Thriving with ADHD by Penn & Kim Holderness, I was curious, not just about the book itself, but about the insights it might offer into a condition that has recently found its way into my own self-reflection. Having navigated special education for over 15 years, I thought I was well-versed in the complexities of ADHD. Yet, like many, it wasn’t until I hit my 40s that the pieces truly clicked into place for me. This book seemed like a conversation worth having—not just with the Holdernesses, who are undoubtedly entertaining in their videos, but also with myself.
From the get-go, Penn’s voice is both relatable and honest. He receives candid support from Kim as they delve into the intricacies of living with ADHD. Their journey paints a vivid picture of not just the challenges but also the strengths that come from neurodivergence. I appreciated how Penn reframed ADHD from a series of setbacks to a collection of unique abilities, emphasizing the “awesome” aspects, which is a refreshing perspective.
One aspect that stood out to me was the dual narrative structure. It’s not merely Penn’s story; Kim’s interjections provide a valuable lens into the lives of those who love someone with ADHD. Her perspectives are both loving and practical. For instance, her observations about how she cues Penn for undivided attention hit home for me—what a simple yet effective tool in a relationship where attention can often waver! If you’re a family member or partner of someone with ADHD, the insights offered here could provide both understanding and actionable advice.
The writing style is breezy and accessible—this isn’t a research-heavy tome but a heartfelt recounting of experiences. I found myself nodding along at familiar struggles, like losing things and the pervasive feeling of distraction, while also recognizing that these challenges could be combated with visual reminders and routines, something I’d always advocated in my teaching career. Yet, I appreciated Penn’s emphasis on the emotional landscape of ADHD as much as the practical tactics. His ability to articulate feelings of overwhelm, paired with moments of exhilarating hyper-focus, adds a depth that many textbooks lack.
While I wouldn’t label this book as life-changing, it is certainly a delightful read for anyone looking to understand or support someone with ADHD. Penn’s anecdotes, enriched by Kim’s reflections, manage to strike a balance between humor and authenticity, making it engaging throughout. One memorable quote that stuck with me was Penn reminding himself to lean into his strengths, reminding us all that neurodivergence can indeed be superpowers if viewed through the right lens.
In conclusion, I believe ADHD is Awesome will resonate especially well with late-life diagnoses, partners of individuals with ADHD, and educators. It’s a friendly guide that holds space for both the struggles and the triumphs of living with ADHD in a world that often lacks understanding. Personally, it reaffirmed my journey toward self-awareness and acceptance. If you’re looking for an informative yet entertaining exploration of ADHD, do yourself a favor and pick this one up—you might just find it speaks to your soul.
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