As an autistic person diagnosed in adulthood, reading and learning about all things neurodivergence is always an engaging and rewarding experience for me. Liam O’Dell’s debut book, ‘Selling Out the Spectrum’, delves into a wide range of relevant topics, focusing on the impact that often questionable research has had on public perceptions of autism. 

 

While I personally didn’t learn much new information, I believe this book serves as an excellent primer for anyone looking to better understand the challenges our society faces regarding controversies, flawed research, and outright falsehoods that continue to shape societal views and understanding of autism. 

 

My main critique of the book is that at times it feels like a collection of academic essays that have been expanded and restructured to be forced into the shape of a book. As a result, it occasionally lacks cohesion. A more concise edit or a different organisational approach could have made it more accessible to a wider audience. 

 

That said, Liam’s writing style, particularly in his conversations with interviewees, is highly approachable and engaging. While the messaging can feel a little repetitive in places, this repetition serves to reinforce the key themes, ensuring readers come away with a strong understanding of the book's message. 

 

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an e-ARC. All opinions are my own.