Laura Kerbey from PAST has recently published a new book for teens with PDA.
Laura has been working with neurodivergent teens for over 22 years.
In her work delivering training, supporting families and conducting assessments, Laura has often been asked if there are any books suitable for teens who have PDA or demand avoidance.
Despite the ever-increasing number of books and resources on PDA, there just wasn’t anything specifically written for teens that Laura and her teen could signpost them to – so Laura decided to write a book specifically for them.
Engaging but not demanding
Writing a book for demand-avoidant teens is not an easy task!
Laura knew that she would have to write something that was engaging but not demanding to read.
The book also had to be authentic, so Laura interviewed some incredible teens with PDA whose insights are shared throughout the book.
The incredible quotes from the teen contributors provide invaluable insight into living with PDA, and will hopefully allow readers to relate, understand their PDA profile better and feel less alone.
‘You’re not selfish, you’re not bratty’
As Micah, one of the contributors says, “The fact that people around you don’t understand it does not make it any less real. You’re not selfish, you’re not bratty, you’re not lazy, you’re not any of the things that they’re going to claim you are.
“There are going to be people who will understand and sympathise and there are going to be people who won’t. Don’t waste time on people who won’t spend time believing your struggles.”
Fully illustrated
As well as including the amazing quotes from PDAers, the book is also fully illustrated by the brilliant Eliza Fricker.
Eliza’s illustrations bring Laura’s words and the contributors’ words to life. They also make The Teen’s Guide to PDA an accessible, easy and non-demanding resource.
The Teen’s Guide to PDA will also be beneficial to parents, carers and professionals who are also looking for a better insight into the complexities of PDA.
The Teen’s Guide to PDA is illustrated by Eliza Fricker and published by Jessica Kingsley.
