Recommended Reads: Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

I prefer to distinguish ADD as attention abundance disorder. Everything is just so interesting... remarkably at the same time.” — Frank Coppola, MA, ODC, ACG

More and more, the concept of ADD as a disorder is being qualified by inclusion of a string of positive qualities -- such as creativity, high intelligence, ability to do many things at once, an aptitude for small business entrepreneurship, and a powerful intuitive sense. - Susan Burgess, from "Think Fast! The ADD Experience (Hartmann, Bownman & Burgess).

The Mayo Clinic Staff defines this condition: “Adult attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (adult ADHD) is a mental health condition that causes inattention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. Adult ADHD symptoms can lead to a number of problems, including unstable relationships, poor work or school performance, and low self-esteem. While treatment won't cure ADHD, it can help a great deal with symptoms. Treatment typically involves psychological counseling, medications or both.”

If diagnosed in children, the majority of treated children with ADHD grow up to be vibrant, active and successful adults.

If you’re curious about ADD OR ADHD, here are a few books to get you started.

Recorded cassette (RC), digital book (DB), braille (BR), and large print (LT) copies of these books are available from the Perkins Braille & Talking Book Library. Please contact the library to order any of these books.

Prepared by Eileen Morange, Registration Services Manager
Perkins Braille & Talking Book Library     

Resilience: Learning from People with Disabilities and Turning Points in Their Lives by Gillian A. King.
RC 59208, (DB 59208 BARD Download Only)
Researchers disclose study results on disabled people's adaptation to change at turning points in their lives, focusing on individuals with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and attention deficit disorder. Interviews explore factors that helped or hindered fifteen adults' adjustment. Includes information about their diseases. 2003.

A Parent's Guide to Attention Deficit Disorders by Lisa J. Bain.
RC 36796 
Bain asserts that attention deficit disorder (ADD), more specifically attention deficit--hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is the most common behavior problem in school-age children. Under the aegis of The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Bain has written a guide to explain some of the past and current thinking on ADHD, possible diagnostic and treatment options, and suggested ways families can deal with the disorder. 1991.

It's Only a Game by Terry Bradshaw.
RC 54130 (DB 54130 BARD Download Only) 
Autobiography of celebrated Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback and television broadcaster. Bradshaw discusses his rise to fame in football, his struggles with attention deficit disorder, his three divorces, and his strong belief in God. 2001.

Learning a Living: a Guide to Planning Your Career by Dale S. Brown.
RC 55089, DB 55089 (in process) 
The author of Job-hunting for the So-called Handicapped...(RC 53895) offers advice on career planning. This title provides applicable how-to tips and recommends researching educational and work opportunities and building social skills. For senior high and older readers. 2000.

Feeding the Brain: How Foods Affect Children by C. Keith Connors.
RC 31507 
The director of the Center for Attention Deficit Disorders in Children at Duke University Medical School discusses the relationship between food and the behavioral and mental processes of children. He presents information about artificial sweeteners, how breakfast can be beneficial or harmful, the role of sugar in aggression and violence, and how the diet of a pregnant woman affects the I.Q. of her baby. 1989.

Positively ADD: Real Success Stories to Inspire Your Dreams by Catherine A. Corman.
RC 63671, (DB 63671 BARD Download Only) 
Profiles seventeen adults with attention deficit disorder--ADD--who use its special qualities to achieve success. Includes biographies of political advisor James Carville, professional athletes, a police officer, a Rhodes scholar, a physician, entrepreneurs, and others. Written by authors who have children with ADD. For junior and senior high readers. 2006.

Running On Ritalin: a Physician Reflects on Children, Society, and Performance in a Pill by Lawrence H. Diller.
RC 47661 
A behavioral pediatrician addresses the dilemma of attention deficit disorder. He contrasts the notion of a biologically and neurologically based illness easily "cured" with medication against the idea of an environmental condition stemming from child-rearing methods. Suggests parents use a form of behavior therapy before resorting to medicine. 1998.

The New Strong-willed Child: Birth Through Adolescence by James C. Dobson.
RC 59507, (DB 59507 BARD Download Only) 
Christian radio and television psychologist revises his 1978 parenting book to offer updated advice on raising difficult children. Profiles several families to illustrate successful methods for specific concerns, including attention deficit disorder. Discusses discipline, spanking, sibling rivalry, and other common issues. 2004.

Delivered From Distraction by Edward M. Hollowell.
RC 59735 (DB 59735 BARD Download Only) 
Physicians and authors of Driven to Distraction (RC 43288) continue their study of attention deficit disorder (ADD) and suggest ways of managing it. Discusses diagnosis, medication, nutrition, and other therapies. Includes testimonies by patients and the authors, who have ADD themselves. 2005.

Driven to Distraction by Edward M. Hollowell.
RC 43288, DB 43288 (in process) 
Two psychiatrists, both coping with attention deficit disorder (ADD) themselves, compare ADD to nearsightedness: the person with ADD--who is easily distracted, impulsive, and sometimes hyperactive--needs help in order to focus. The authors explore ADD's causes and offer tips for managing the condition. Includes case studies and a list of relevant organizations. 1994.

Worry: Controlling It and Using It Wisely by Edward M. Hollowell.
BR 11485, RC 45699 
Dr. Hallowell, an expert on attention deficit disorder, turns to a study on worry, in both its destructive and productive forms. Hallowell analyzes the uses and benefits of worry and discusses when to seek help if someone worries too much. Offers recommendations on how to maintain a healthy balance. 1997.

The Little Monster: Growing Up with ADHD by Robert Jergen.
RC 60918, (DB 60918 BARD Download Only) 
Professor who didn't learn he had attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) until he was twenty-four describes growing up with an undiagnosed disability. Anecdotally relates his social and academic struggles. Celebrates having ADHD and outlines coping strategies that have made him successful. Some strong language. 2004.

It's Nobody's Fault by Harold S. Koplewicz.
RC 43255, (DB 43255 BARD Download Only) 
Explains brain disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, separation anxiety, depression, and autism. Suggests treatment, including therapy or medication. 1996.

Kids in the Syndrome Mix of ADHS, LD, Asperger's Tourette's, Bipolar, and More by Martin L. Kutscher.
BR 16497, RC 62249, (DB 62249 BARD Download Only) 
A pediatric neurologist's guide to the treatment of neurobehavioral and neuropsychiatric problems in children--some that may coexist. Includes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, autism, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behavior, sensory integration dysfunction, tics, depression, bipolar depression, oppositional defiance, and central auditory processing disorders. 2005.

It's So Much Work To Be Your Friend by Richard D. Lavoie.
RC 66198, (DB 66198 BARD Download Only 
Former headmaster of a special-education facility offers strategies for developing social competence in children with learning disabilities such as anxiety, attention deficit disorder, and language difficulties. Describes ways parents can help their children learn the skills to make friends, resolve conflict, improve self-esteem, and deal with bullies. 2005.

Scattered: How Attention Deficit Disorder Originates and What you Can Do About It by Gabor Mate.
RC 50537, (DB 50537 BARD Download Only) 
Canadian doctor advises parents of children with attention deficit disorder to address issues of psychological security, family relationships, lifestyle, and self-esteem, rather than to rely on medication for controlling the child's behavior. Posits that ADD is a problem of society and human development, rather than a medical ailment. 1999.

Attention Deficit Disorder by Wendy Moragne.
BR 11882, RC 46827, (DB 46827 BARD Download Only) 
Case histories and interviews illustrate this former teacher's description of attention deficit disorder. She discusses the impact this condition has on young people and on those around them and outlines treatment options.

Out of the Fog: Treatment Options and Coping Strategies for Adult Attention Deficit Disorder by Kevin R. Murphy.
RC 42180 
The authors define adult Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) as a treatable neurobiological disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and oftentimes, hyperactivity. They explain the diagnosis and treatment and describe techniques for coping with the effects of ADD using diet, exercise, relaxation, and organizational tools. 1995.

Learning Disabilities: the Ultimate Teen Guide by Penny Hutchins Paquette.
RC 59729, DB 59729 (in process) 
Summary of the most common learning disabilities, including dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyslexia, and attention deficit disorder, and ways they're diagnosed. Offers suggestions on overcoming these difficulties in school by the use of assistive devices, individualized education plans (IEPs), and special education services. For senior high and older readers. 2003.

No Limits: the Will to Succeed by Michael Phelps.
RC 68428, (DB 68428 BARD Download Only), LT 9232 
Autobiography of American swimmer Michael Phelps, who won eight gold medals at the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in China. Describes his Maryland upbringing with two champion-swimmer older sisters, the diagnosis of his attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and his training routine. Maintains that hard work, confidence, and perseverance are necessary for success. 2008.

Only a Mother Could Love Him: My Life with and Triumph Over ADD by Benjamin Polis.
RC 60824, (DB 60824 BARD Download Only) 
Autobiography of an Australian with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. At nineteen years old he describes the difficulties he encountered growing up at home and school. Offers advice to parents about selecting schools, teachers, and medication; handling homework, discipline, and relationships; and other issues. Preface by Dr. Edward M. Hallowell. 2001.

Meeting the Challenges of Learning Disabilities in Adulthood by Arlyn J. Roffman.
RC 51692, (DB 51692 BARD Download Only) 
Suggestions for adults on coping with learning disabilities and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Uses case studies to illustrate how to contend with daily life including employment, dating, parenthood, intimacy, and mental health. Offers strategies for transitioning from high school. 2000.

Adult ADD: A Reader Friendly Guide to Identifying, Understanding, and Treating Adult Attention Deficit Disorder by Tom Whiteman and Michele Novotni.
RC 42280 
Two psychologists aim their book primarily at those with attention deficit disorder (ADD) but add tips for the people who interact with them. Using patients' experiences, they discuss symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and the controversy surrounding ADD. 1995.

A Bird's-eye View of Life with ADD and ADHD by Chris A. Zeigler Dendy.
RC 58921, DB 58921 (in process) 
Factual information and practical advice on ADD and ADHD with profiles of twelve young people handling these diagnoses. Offers tips on organization, scheduling, and coping techniques including medication for managing everyday life. Appendices cover frequently asked questions and other relevant material. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 2003.

Help Me to Help My Child by Jill Bloom.
RC 31415 
The parent of a child with a learning disability offers a consumer's manual in nontechnical terms. Bloom defines learning disabilities and explains how a parent can recognize early signs and come to terms with the situation. Other topics include testing, setting of educational goals, legal rights, and trends in treatment. A list of national and local resources is included. 1990.

Living With Learning Disabilities by David E. Hall.
RC 39925 
The author, a pediatrician, describes a learning disability as a "wiring problem in the brain that makes learning certain skills very difficult." Many people with learning disabilities have had successful careers, including author Hans Christian Andersen, inventor Thomas Edison, and actor Tom Cruise. Dr. Hall describes various learning disabilities and offers advice on how to cope. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993.

Quirky Kids: Understanding and Helping Your Child Who Doesn't Fit In by Perri Klass.
RC 57786, (DB 57786 BARD Download Only)
Pediatricians' guide to coping with developmental and behavioral problems associated with autistic spectrum disorders, Asperger's syndrome, nonverbal learning disability, sensory integration dysfunction, pragmatic language disorder, and more. Addresses diagnosis, treatment, medication, and schooling as well as family and social challenges from childhood through adolescence. 2003.

Brilliant Idiot: An Autobiography of a Dyslexic by Abraham Schmitt.
RC 38931 
The author portrays his difficulty in coping with a condition that he could not comprehend until he discovered in middle age that it was a serious learning disability. Born into a nearly illiterate Mennonite village in a Canadian prairie province, Schmitt suffered humiliation, confusion, and failure. Now he looks upon his handicap as something to survive, not resolve. 1992.

Learning My Way: I'm a Winner by Judy Harris Swenson.
RC 27874 
Dan Peters has a learning disability and is hyperactive. He shares his ups and downs at home and school before and after Mrs. Carson, the school psychologist, diagnosed his learning problem. He now enjoys special education classes which help make his learning easier, and build his self-esteem. For grades 2-4 and older readers.

My Father, My Son by Elmo R. Zumwalt.
RC 25257 
Dual memoirs by a one-time Chief of Naval Operations and his son. During the Vietnam War, Admiral Elmo Zumwalt, Jr., ordered agent orange to be used for defoliation, in part to protect U.S. soldiers such as his son, Elmo III. Years later, the younger Zumwalt developed two kinds of terminal cancer and his own son was found to have a severe learning disability. Strong language. 1986.

Lifetime Management for Success: Adults with Learning Disabilities by Citro Teresa Allissa, Ed.
RCM 785
Dual memoirs by a one-time Chief of Naval Operations and his son. During the Vietnam War, Admiral Elmo Zumwalt, Jr., ordered agent orange to be used for defoliation, in part to protect U.S. soldiers such as his son, Elmo III. Years later, the younger Zumwalt developed two kinds of terminal cancer and his own son was found to have a severe learning disability. Strong language. 1999.

The Learning Mystique:"Learning Disabilities" by Gerald Coles.
RC 28548
Critique of the concept of physiologically induced learning dysfunctions. Coles points out that the neurological dysfunction theory absolves society, the family, and the schools of responsibility for many children's learning problems. He believes the starting points of many learning difficulties lie in complex individual attributes and social relationships. 1987.

Laughing Allegra: The Inspiring Story of a Mother's Struggle and Triumph Raising a Daughter with Learning Disabilities by Anne Ford.
RC 58016
Memoir by the daughter of Henry Ford II describing her experiences bringing up a child who was diagnosed as severely learning disabled in 1976. Includes a resource guide and suggestions for parents of children with similar problems. 2003.

My Thirteenth Winter: A Memoir by Samantha Abeel.
RC 58528, (DB 58528 BARD Download Only)
Abeel, both gifted and learning disabled, describes being different at school. Discusses her diagnosis of dyscalculia, which compromises sequential processing required for spelling, telling time, remembering locker combinations, and understanding math and grammar. Relates learning coping skills in a prescribed special ed math class. Schneider Family Book Award. For senior high readers. 2003.

Healing and Preventing Autism: a Complete Guide by Jenny McCarthy.
RC 69259 (in process), (DB 69259 Download Only)
Actress Jenny McCarthy, who described her son’s autism in Louder than Words (RC 65495), teams up with autism specialist, Dr. Jerry Kartzinel, to explain various aspects of the condition. Describes symptoms and suggests possible treatments such as dietary changes, supplements, detoxification, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. 2009.

Copy This! by Paul Orfalea.
RC 60750, (DB 60750 BARD Download Only)
The author, a dyslexic who was repeatedly expelled from school, describes successfully founding Kinko's copy shops. Offers business advice along with autobiographical anecdotes. Commercial audiobook. 2005.

In the Mind's Eye: Visual Thinkers, Gifted People with Learning Difficulties by Thomas G. West.
RC 35003
A layman explores the apparent correlation between unusual creativity and learning problems related to words and numbers, noting that creative people rely on visual thinking. He profiles some well-known examples, such as Einstein and Churchill, and sees advantages of visual thinking in manipulating computer graphics. 1991. 

Is This Your Child? by Doris J. Rapp.
RC 34583
Rapp provides help for parents who have wondered what they did wrong and what they should do when their child exhibits aggression, hyperactivity, illness, or depression. In many children, the problems are caused by allergic reactions to foods or to the environment. Rapp offers ways that parents can discover which allergies affect their child. Bestseller. 1991.