Why Can't I Just Enjoy Things? cover art

Why Can't I Just Enjoy Things?

A Comedian's Guide to Autism

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Why Can't I Just Enjoy Things?

By: Pierre Novellie
Narrated by: Pierre Novellie
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About this listen

 *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 Mental Health Performing Arts Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Funny Witty
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I chose this as a comedy fan and neurotypical healthcare worker, and I absolutely loved it. Pierre’s humour and honesty make this such a fascinating listen for someone who likes his comedy but also wants to understand the neurodivergent mind better. It’s eye-opening but overwhelmingly positive, and it was such a joy to listen to!

Humorous and heart warming!

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It was very well presented and enjoyable to listen to.
There were plenty of ‘ah-ha’ moments, and I left feeling a little more understood of my various quirks. I’ll likely listen again to get all the bits I missed the first time.

Required reading for asd people

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I loved this book. I loved how Autism is presented not as a bad OR good thing, not better or worse, just different than not-autism.

As someone who is not Autistic but loves people who are, I've actively tried to understand these differences for over a decade.

This book is refreshingly unbiased, kind and understanding to all involved.

To anyone who values understanding and acceptance of your fellow human, (wherever you sit in the Autistic, non-autistic, un-known world), this book makes it easier and more fun than anything else I've found so far.

Like learning a language I never knew I didn't know.

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Please, if you are autistic, or not autistic, read or listen to this book. You will learn what it’s like to live with a brain that is different. I want to live in Pierre’s world, where autistic people are just people and adjustments are part of life. Go. Get it. Read it.

The clearest explanation of autism I have ever heard (and I’m autistic, I’ve read a LOT)

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I really enjoyed listening to this book as it’s helped me understand my partner and the majority of her family, who are undiagnosed but likely to be diagnosed shortly. Thanks Pierre.

A clear and concise explanation of autism

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