Finding Humor and Humanity in the Autistic Experience: A Review of Elyse Myer's book "That's a Great Question I'd Love to Tell You"

Cover of Elyse Myers' book That's a Great Question, I'd Love to Tell You

When I first saw a short social media video by Elyse Myers, I immediately fell in love with her perspective, personality and delivery style. She is funny. With dry humor and flat affect she shares things in the most direct and blunt manner - fostering the chuckle of recognition from the audience. As the algorithm does, I continued to see more of her content and watched her evolve. Over the years, Myers has gained more popularity, and has been picked up by quite a few media outlets allowing her to create a podcast "Funny Cuz It's True," appear as a guest for other podcasts and recently, to publish a book.

As I opened That's a Great Question I'd Love to Tell You, I expected to see a clear outline of points with some supporting anecdotal stories. What you will actually find is so much better! Along with the written word, it has drawings, visual stories, and a table of contents in picture form! As I reflect on my expectation, I realize it is borne out of the neurotypical way books are organized and written, not the way that someone exploring the neurodivergent experience would prefer to present things. This book chronicles the experiences Myers had throughout her life - moments she originally considered "normalest of normal" but in retrospect were pivotal points. Her blend of humor, honesty, and heart makes the journey feel deeply relatable to anyone. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and most importantly, you’ll gain a fresh perspective on how an Autistic mind processes the world.

A Unique Lens on Life’s Simple Moments

What makes this book so compelling is its focus on the small, everyday experiences that manifest so differently in the mind of Elyse Myers. As a clinical therapist who has worked with many Autistic folk, and heard many of their small, everyday experiences as well, I can attest that many Autistic people see and process the world in a way very similar to what Myers presents. The descriptions provided offer a deeper view into the challenges that can stack on top of our "normal milestones" in life, making them more confusing and difficult to navigate than for neurotypical people.

For example, in the chapter titled seven, the book describes a childhood memory of going to a party and playing the adolescent game of "seven minutes in heaven." At first glance, the sheer number of questions running through the author's mind is humorous - which I suspect is somewhat intended in the storytelling. But through the author’s eyes, it also expresses how our world assumes generalized understanding of unspoken and metaphorical ideas, creating confusion for someone who views the world in a very literal and concrete way. These stories highlight the complexity of your first love, the first time a peer environment encourages intimacy, and the insecurity brought on by both adolescent hormones and a difficulty in reading visual social and emotional cues. The feelings and sensations identified by the author are universal and relatable with the added depth of narrating the confusion of the neurodivergent mind.

Direct to the Heart

One of the most touching entries in this book comes on page 237 with a letter addressed "To whom it will never concern." This letter addresses a heartbreaking story, and thus experience Myers had, that she decided to intentionally redact from the book. What happened? We don't know. But what struck me was how even that entry resonates with us all and reminds me of the work done in a therapy setting as one moves past difficult and painful events. The letter she writes is the way in which we all rewrite our narrative into something we can take charge of and direct, rather than be defined by someone else's ideas.

The Importance of Neuroaffirming Therapy

Neurodivergence has a natural tendency to make someone feel as though they don't fit, that there is something wrong with them. Without those differences celebrated and appropriate accommodations made, a neurodivergent person develops low self-esteem and doesn't see the value they offer to the world. It increases the number of experiences one has that can be described as difficult and painful, and the need for supportive environments and people with which to process it all.

Reading this book reminded me how crucial neuroaffirming therapy can be for Autistic individuals. Many people live with a disconnect between their behavior and how others expect them to act. This gap often leads to confusion, strained relationships, trauma and negative beliefs about themselves. Neuroaffirming therapy supports people by validating their experiences, releasing the distress from those painful events, and helping them build a positive sense of identity.

Cozy reading nook with books and a cup of tea

Seeing the World Differently Is a Gift

One of the most important takeaways from this book is the reminder that neurodivergent people bring essential perspectives to our shared human experience. Their questions, observations, and ways of thinking push us to grow and evolve as a society. By understanding more of the Autistic experience, we foster diversity in ideas and a world that values all kinds of minds. The author’s journey shows that what might seem like mundane moments in life can actually be demonstrations of the simple beauty around us, shaping who we become.

Final Thoughts on the Autistic Experience

That's a Great Question I'd Love to Tell You is more than just a memoir. It’s a window into the mind of an autistic person that invites readers to laugh, reflect, and appreciate the richness of neurodiversity. Whether you are autistic yourself, a family member, or simply curious about the autism experience, this book offers valuable insights wrapped in warmth and humor.

If you find yourself relating to the stories in this book and want to explore supportive, affirming therapy, please consider reaching out. Understanding your unique brain is a powerful step toward living a fuller, more authentic life.