The Autistic's Guide to Self-Discovery

Flourishing as a Neurodivergent Adult

By: Sol Smith

Narrated by: Sol Smith

Live Authentically and Function Effectively in All Areas of Your Life

In this first-of-its-kind book, Sol Smith combines current research, his personal experience as a late-diagnosed autistic adult, and lessons learned as an educator to show how you can transcend common mischaracterizations, overcome shame, and gain the skills to flourish. Sol knows that neurodivergent people often feel that nothing they have been taught relates to how they experience the world. To resolve this conflict, they try to change or mask who they are, which can cause isolation, depression, and anxiety. He advises the opposite: Understand yourself, accept yourself, and reduce conflict. Designed to help you peel away the shell of inadequacy and self-blame that often comes with neurodivergence, The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery offers the necessary tools and knowledge to function effectively at home, at work, and in the wider world.

©2025 New World Library (P)2025 New World Library

Critic reviews

“Finally, an expert who truly gets the experience of navigating life as a neurodivergent adult in a neurotypical world! Sol Smith’s shame-busting guide isn’t about fixing who you are — it’s about understanding how your autistic brain works, recognizing and embracing your unique strengths, and discovering tailored tools and strategies to help you thrive authentically and confidently in a neurotypical world.” — Shawn C. Horn, PsyD, clinical psychologist and author of The Adult ADHD Guide to Social Success

“I followed Sol Smith’s advice, and it helped me get out of severe burnout. It’s hard, but it worked for me. Working with Sol was validating and life-changing. I am continually thankful for his fantastic coaching and advice.” — Serena Valentino, New York Times bestselling author of the Villains series

“Sol Smith’s guide is a beacon of hope and understanding for neurodivergent adults. With profound empathy and insight, he invites us to embrace our true selves, shed the weight of shame, and step into a life of authenticity and connection.” — Mackenzie Dunham, LICSW, LCSW, host of the Camp Wild Heart podcast and founder of Wild Heart Society

New fav. This one will be on repeat in my ear as I live and parent.

I’ve read a lot of books since starting my self-diagnosis journey and then getting officially diagnosed as autistic—and Survival Guide for Autism by Professor Sol Smith truly stood out.

The clarity and precision in his writing felt like such a breath of fresh air. He has this way of stating things directly—almost rigidly at first—but then circling back with a little space, a little softness, and just enough self-compassion to let it really land. It’s structured and validating without being harsh. That combo is rare.

I especially appreciated Sol’s openness about disordered eating, specifically binge eating. The way he shared his process was so honest and validating. I’m still realizing how common that experience is in the autistic community, and I’m really grateful it’s being talked about more—especially by men. It’s such an important part of the conversation that often gets overlooked.

I also loved his tips for getting your body moving. They weren’t shame-based or prescriptive—they felt gentle, encouraging, and totally grounded in real-life neurodivergent experience. It didn’t feel like a guide trying to “fix” me. It felt like something written by someone who gets it.

I messaged Sol the moment I finished reading. I’m already a third of the way through my second read, and I know this is going to be a book I come back to again and again.

Just like I told him—here’s hoping there’s a second book on the way. We need more voices like his.

great audio book I've listened to leave times already

This book has great information on being autistic without realizing yet and you want to do to make your life better foable small steps

Great resource and very relatable

Only suggestion : would have been nice to have an accompanying pdf with some of the recommendations and resources.

Autism from the inside

This book has been so helpful for me and my partner. I’m on my 3rd listen, picking out new gems each time. Sol’s humor is great too, in my opinion.

Very helpful for late/recently diagnosed

Late diagnosed (47) last year as AuDHD, the diagnosis brought some compelling answers to my life up until this point. Currently swimming in the deep end trying to figure out who I am. This book has helped shed some light on a lot of my current struggles, from family issues to my professional life. Thank you Professor Sol Smith for this easy to digest and utilize book.

Incredibly Insightful

I didn't know anyone else knew me so well. I did not think I'd relate as much as I do. Amazing, and I love the advice and tips within.

Exactly as described, so helpful!!

Sol did a great job narrating, I appreciate hearing his inflections. I’ve enjoyed his videos on social media and his work online, but having his teachings in this format so far has been the most accessible! Very informative and non-judgmental in his examples and advice!

A funny and relatable listen

I just finished the audiobook and I have to say, it was such an unexpectedly funny and relatable listen! I’m not sure if the humor was intentional, but I found myself laughing in agreement more times than I can count.

One part that really stood out to me was the section on rumination. I actually tried one of the tools mentioned, and it worked! That moment alone made the book worth it for me.

Beyond that, the whole book really reaffirmed my own thoughts and experiences around my autism. It was so comforting to feel seen, to realize I’m not alone in how I think or feel.

So thank you. Truly. This book made me feel understood in the best way.

Very helpful

This is all great information but being 74 and just figuring it out two years ago I wonder if there’s any support group for somebody my age

An Organized Breakdown

I’ve been studying autism and unmasking for a couple years now as part of figuring out I’m autistic, and I found that there were only a couple things Mr Smith touched on that I hadn’t already studied; BUT not only were the things I hadn’t already studied very helpful, the rest being all in one place is a great resource.