Feeling Like an ADHD Alien by Pina Varnel

reviewed by Abby
grade 10

Have you ever thought that you aren't like other people? As if you stick out, do things differently, or aren't "normal"? In our society, anything or anyone out of the ordinary is seen as weird or alien-like and is often misunderstood. Feeling Like an ADHD Alien by Pina Varnel shows and tells how a teen with ADHD may feel, sharing her own life experiences, using her alter-ego Kiki. The book illustrates how Kiki realizes that her friends can do things that she finds difficult; she often forgets things, like why she walked into a room; wants to do things like others but finds it hard; her emotions feel sudden and uncontrollable; and she loses interest in hobbies she enjoys. It explains what goes on in an ADHD brain, and how it's different. The book doesn't just show the negatives, it also shows positivity.

I absolutely love Pina Varnel's art and writing! It feels like a comic book in the way everything is formatted. It allows us, the reader, to look into Kiki's life, and how it's relatable--trying your best at something everyone else can do, but you still can't seem to do it. Not only that, but also feeling immense pressure in trying to prove yourself to others instead of yourself. Unlike some graphic novels, it's illustrated in black and white, which can be hard for shading, but it's well made and it makes you want to look at each frame and detail because of how beautiful it looks. 

I would most definitely recommend this book to any teen and adult with or without ADHD because it shows that people are not alone in feeling certain ways, and that they are not "aliens.". Even those who don't have ADHD should read this book because it brings more awareness and understanding of those that do. Plus, it is an entertaining read with relatable situations and illustrations! 

Feeling Like an ADHD Alien is coming in September to Winter Park Library!