Episode 99 Writing Neurodivergent Characters - Introduction to ND

Write, Damn It! with Zoe Richards

Neurodiversity is becoming more of a thing in character development since Eleanor Oliphant appeared in May 2017. Since then I've read a few books that have handled neurodivergent characters well - and many that have not. Even with my level of expertise I would still say that I don't fully know neurodiversity - because the reality is, there are many types of neurodiversity. However, it appears that some writers have chosen to write the stereotypical character with no social skills. This happens, sure, but most people who are neurodiverse are able to mask their traits and appear to have social skills of what's referred to as neurotypical.
It's important, then, that we understand neurodiversity when we write ND characters so that we represent them appropriately. In this episode I introduce you to what neurodiversity is, and what it is not.

Support the show

Join me on Substack - here - for more insights into writing and being published, as well as mindset tips and tools. You can subscribe to get access to much more from me, including workshops and coaching.
If you would like to show your love for the podcast, please consider buying me a coffee through BuyMeACoffee.com. This gives you an opportunity to make a small, one-off donation - you are not committed to regular payments. Making the podcast earns me no money, and in fact costs me a fair bit, but I do it for the love, and because I have such fun talking with wonderful authors.
Even if you can't afford to buy me a coffee, simply letting me know that you love the podcast means a lot to me. Please take a moment to leave a star rating, write a review, or share the episode with others you know who will benefit from listening in, or you can tag me in social media when you share an episode that you love with your followers.
My website is http://www.zoerichards.co.uk where you can discover how you can work with me, and you can find me on TwiX and Instagram as @zoerichardsuk
And finally my debut novel, Garden of Her Heart, is out now and you can buy your copy here.
Happy writing, and may the wo...