Book Review: “ADHD Explained”

When my son was first diagnosed with ADHD, I found myself searching for something that could give me both understanding and hope. I needed guidance that was clear, compassionate, and practical. ADHD Explained by Dr. Edward M. Hallowell provided exactly that.

Dr. Hallowell, a world-renowned ADHD expert, bestselling author, and popular educator on social media, distills decades of clinical knowledge into 100 short, engaging lessons. Each one offers science-based insights, real-life examples, and practical strategies for managing ADHD in everyday life. Whether you’re new to the diagnosis or looking to deepen your understanding, this book makes complex information easy to grasp and, importantly, easy to remember.

What I especially value about this book is its balance. Dr. Hallowell addresses the real challenges - distractibility, impulsivity, emotional intensity - without pathologizing the person. He also highlights the strengths that can come with ADHD: creativity, energy, passion, and a unique way of thinking. For me, this reframing was powerful. It gave me not only tools to help my son navigate his world, but also the reassurance that his ADHD is part of what makes him who he is, not a flaw to be “fixed.”

ADHD Explained is structured in short, focused sections that make it accessible for readers with ADHD themselves - something many ADHD books overlook. From debunking myths to discussing medication and lifestyle strategies, the advice feels both doable and optimistic.

If you or someone you love is living with ADHD, I highly recommend this book as a starting point or a fresh perspective on how to understand and thrive with this diagnosis. It was a lifeline for me in those early days, and it continues to be a resource I revisit.

In my psychotherapy practice, I now work with adults who have ADHD, helping them build on their strengths and develop strategies to manage challenges. If reading ADHD Explained sparks questions or you’d like to explore how ADHD shows up in your life, I’m here to help you take the next steps.