Pushing boundaries, breaking norms, and the ADHD brain (Casey McQuiston’s story)
May 14, 2024
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Best-selling author Casey McQuiston discusses how ADHD influences their writing, shares a sneak peek of their upcoming book, and explores unpacking shame and neurodivergence. They delve into personal experiences, struggles in school, and discovering the strengths of ADHD for creative pursuits.
ADHD influences Casey McQuiston's writing style, showcased through a character struggling with executive dysfunction in an unreleased book.
Growing up in a neurodivergent family, Casey's early ADHD diagnosis fostered understanding and a non-stigmatized environment for unique brain wiring.
Deep dives
Casey McQuiston's ADHD and Writing Style Influence
Casey McQuiston, New York Times best-selling author, shared an excerpt from an unreleased book where a character, Theo, navigates their ADHD journey while on a European tour. Theo struggles with executive dysfunction, showcasing how ADHD influences their writing style. This passage reflects the internal conflict faced by individuals with ADHD in managing tasks and achieving focus on their creative endeavors.
Early Diagnosis and Familial Understanding of ADHD
Growing up in a family where everyone, including Casey's two older sisters, had ADHD, Casey was diagnosed early in first grade due to their mom's awareness of genetic predispositions. Despite testing positive for ADHD, Casey did not experience dyslexia like their sisters. The familial environment was open and understanding, fostering an atmosphere where ADHD was not stigmatized but acknowledged as a unique brain wiring.
Educational Challenges and ADHD Impact
Casey recalls struggles in academic settings due to ADHD traits like hyperactivity and an unconventional learning style. The frustration stemmed from educators not recognizing Casey's individuality and unique approach to tasks, leading to feelings of being misunderstood and compelled to conform. This experience highlights the impact of early education on neurodivergent individuals and the importance of accommodating diverse learning styles.
Casey McQuiston, best-selling author of Red, White and Royal Blue, grew up in a neurodivergent family and was diagnosed with ADHD at a young age. Still, they had trouble coping, and in high school, English teachers gave them an intervention for “not trying hard enough.”
Casey is the author of multiple books in the queer romance genre. Casey chats with Laura about how ADHD influences their writing. They also share a sneak peek of their upcoming book The Pairing, coming out August 2024.
Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about ADHD Aha! and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.
Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give
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