Top 3 Books You NEED If ADHD Is Part of Your Life
Alright, let’s get real. ADHD can feel like a superpower and a supervillain at the same time. Some days you’re on fire, and other days… Well, let’s just say focus and a sense of control feels harder to find. But here’s the thing: ADHD isn’t something to be conquered; it’s something to understand and work with.
As an ADHD coach (and a family member of multiple people with ADHD), I’ve seen the impact that the right resources can have on my clients' personal and professional lives. Today, I’m sharing three highly recommended books that will change how you see ADHD—whether you’re living with it, loving someone with it, or raising a kid who’s navigating it. These books offer expert insights and practical advice that, when combined with coaching, can lead to transformative growth.
I was not paid to endorse these books. I’ve read MANY books on ADHD and these stand out for their good, practical advice and relatability.
Let’s dive in.
1. More Attention, Less Deficit by Ari Tuckman, PsyD, MBA
Big Idea: Dr. Ari Tuckman is your go-to guy for breaking down ADHD into simple, clear, and actionable steps. His book is a comprehensive guide packed with strategies to help you manage ADHD like a pro, whether you’re at work, home, or anywhere in between.
Why You Need It: Tuckman’s no-nonsense approach is a game-changer. He doesn’t sugarcoat ADHD, but he also doesn’t make it feel like a life sentence. Instead, he’s all about showing you how to turn ADHD into your advantage. His book helps you understand why your brain works the way it does and then gives you the tools to create routines, structures, and systems that help you win at life.
What You’ll Get Out of It: You’re going to learn real, practical tools you can start using TODAY. From handling distractions to reducing procrastination, this book is a manual for ADHD success. You’ll learn how to work with your brain instead of fighting against it. Tuckman’s advice is both accessible and easy to apply, making it a must-read.
2. The ADHD Effect on Marriage by Melissa Orlov
Big Idea: Melissa Orlov doesn’t just talk about how ADHD affects relationships—she shows you with examples from her own marriage and from those couples she counsels. This book is like having a therapist on speed dial, giving you the insight and strategies you can use to make your relationship stronger. This isn’t just a relationship book. It’s a survival guide for couples for whom ADHD is part of the equation.
Why You Need It: If you or your partner has ADHD, this book provides relatable anecdotes and wise advice. Orlov highlights how ADHD behaviors can affect marriage dynamics. Think: forgetfulness (“I swear I’ll get to that”), impulsivity, and emotional intensity. She also shows you how to turn those challenges around and create a stronger, more connected relationship.
What You’ll Get Out of It: If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in the same arguments or feeling resentful or misunderstood, this book will be your saving grace. Orlov shows you how to communicate better, rebuild trust, and understand what’s really going on beneath the surface. Whether you have ADHD or your partner does, you’ll finish this book with a whole new perspective on how to make your relationship thrive—ADHD and all.
3. Teenagers with ADD and ADHD, A guide for Parents and Professionals by Chris A. Zeigler Dendy, M.S.
Big Idea: Raising a teenager is no small feat, and when you add ADHD into the mix, it can feel even more challenging. In Teenagers with ADD and ADHD, Chris A. Zeigler Dendy, M.S., a longtime expert in ADHD, offers a wealth of practical strategies and deep insights for understanding the unique challenges that come with ADHD during the teenage years. Whether it’s school struggles, emotional rollercoasters, or social drama, Zeigler Dendy gives you a no-nonsense guide to help your teen navigate these years without losing their (or your) mind.
Why You Need It: The teenage years are when ADHD can show up in new and more intense ways—school expectations increase, independence grows, and emotions run high. Zeigler Dendy breaks down why ADHD can become more pronounced during this life stage and provides practical strategies to help both parents and teens succeed. With over 20 years of experience as a teacher, school psychologist, and mother to children with ADHD, her guidance is compassionate and real-world.
What You’ll Get Out of It: This book offers an all-in-one toolkit for parents, teachers, and teens themselves. Zeigler Dendy provides clear strategies to help teens improve organization, focus, and manage peer pressure effectively. It’s designed to guide you through the teenage years with a deeper understanding of ADHD, helping your teen grow in confidence and independence. You’ll learn how to support them through challenges, while preparing them for long-term success and self-management.
Conclusion
Speaking from experience, these books aren’t just good reads—they’re lifelines. If ADHD is part of your world, they’ll equip you with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to stop struggling and start thriving. Whether you’re focused on improving your own life, deepening relationships, or empowering your kids, these books will help unlock potential and understanding.
If you're interested in exploring ADHD coaching further, I invite you to learn more about my approach and how I work with my clients here. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or someone you care about, I’d love to help. Feel free to fill out the form below to schedule a free 20-minute consultation—I look forward to meeting you!