Why Can't I Just Enjoy Things?

A Comedian's Guide to Autism

De: Pierre Novellie

Narrado por: Pierre Novellie

*Nominated for Best Book at the 2025 Chortle Awards*

'Outstanding, I want to press it into the hands of every newly diagnosed person' Fern Brady

'Like a Martian's guide to living on Earth. Funny, enlightening and gobsmacking' Frank Skinner

'A hilarious, crystal-clear guide to autism' Phil Wang

'An illuminating and joyously entertaining book' Daily Express


Why were the other kids at school obsessed with Britney Spears instead of The Goon Show?
Why don't people ever say what they mean?
And... Why is everyone chewing so loudly?

Comedian Pierre Novellie was on stage when a heckler suggested he was autistic. Usually, this disruption would be water off a duck's back but two things made this heckler different: first, he was himself autistic. Second, he turned out to be absolutely right.

This random encounter led to a diagnosis of autism at the age of 31 that unravelled his world, explained his struggles and answered questions that had bothered him for his entire life.

At once a hilarious and insightful journey through autism and neurodivergence, an entertaining explainer for the uninitiated and observational comedy for the neurodiverse, this is the perfect read for anyone who has ever asked themselves: why can't I just enjoy things?

The audiobook includes an exclusive Q&A with comedian and BudPod co-host, Phil Wang.©2024 Pierre Novellie (P)2024 Bonnier Books UK

Essential reading for lately diagnosed people, or others suspicious they may be autistic

I wish I could give this book six stars. After reading the book “Is This Autism?” and concluding that yes, it is definitely autism, I stumbled upon this book while looking for my next listen on my journey of autistic self-discovery. This book validated my own experience in a deep and meaningful way, and felt like the metaphorical hug I needed after such a life-changing moment. I wish I could thank the author in person. Also, it’s hilarious. Highly recommended for anyone recently diagnosed or curious.

Easy to understand and funny

I could not figure out how and where to access the resources the author refers mentions.

Delightful

Just a delightful read. The author narrating it made it even better. He was able to articulate so many things that I’ve never been able to articulate about the autistic experience. And it’s of course funny - a breath of fresh air for books on autism

Too relatable?

I sent this book by a friend who thought I may find some insights. That was an understated assessment. It felt like the author was writing so much of my life story. So much was familiar to me. The author helps give context to how his variety of autism affects his choices and may color his experience. I found his words giving voice to my internal dialogue. Listening about his experience provided the opportunity to re-contextualise my own experience. I would recommend to people who are autism curious or someone with an autistic loved one.

Extremely thoughtful, hilarious, and relatable

Ah, the beauty of an autism book written by an autistic writer. Research heaven. How I enjoyed following his mind in patterns that my mind recognizes and loves. This book was very impressive in its research, depth, and compassion. I absolutely loved all the personal anecdotes. Novellie is an excellent writer and clearly delights in a well-written, true, aesthetically pleasing, entertaining sentence. This book has helped me as an autistic woman understand my autistic son and brother better. What a gift. Thank you!

I've listened 4 times it is so good

I found this book right at the time I suspected my boyfriend and my self of being autistic. it was a revelation and a troubleing realisation was cushioned by the humor and good nature of this book.
The audio is great too, I could listen to this also to go to sleep, it is soothing. thanks alot for your contribution.

It me, the book

what a wonderful book. I'm sending it to everyone I know so I don't have to repeat the same things over and over.

Amazing

This book was so well written. And Pierre’s description of social behaviors and other things was so clear and logical - it was a pleasure to read. Also, this book helped me a lot more in my autistic journey because Pierre and I have some similarities in the way we experience - and don’t experience - certain things. I despair about the differences I feel from other autistic people but this has helped me.