
I've published two books about autism; one academic book, Autistic Masking: Understanding Identity Management and the Role of Stigma, and one non-academic book, Autism: A Collection of Essays.
I've also contributed to a number of books covering a range and wealth of topics related to what it means to be Autistic.
These essays gather my most widely read and cited articles from 2017 to 2025, tracking the shifting landscape of Autistic identity and the forces that have tried to shape it.
They expose inherited stories, name unseen worlds, and map the movement from survival to belonging. Moving from explanation to emergence, from critique to possibility, these pieces challenge the narratives that define autism, Autistic people, and neurodiversity.
Together, they chart an evolution in thought that continues to influence practice, unsettle assumptions, and reshape the conversations that matter.
Masking is a form of identity management involving consciously or unconsciously suppressing aspects of identity and action. Often seen in socially marginalised groups, it is found to contribute towards poorer outcomes for autistic people, and is related to higher prevalence of suicidality, exhaustion and burnout, and mental health difficulties. Autistic Masking offers a holistic understanding of the most up-to-date evidence in this field, with the aim of developing solid knowledge and practice in health, education and society.
Written to be accessible to everyday readers with an interest in autism as well as academics and professionals, the book deconstructs the predominant misconception that masking is purely a social strategy to ‘blend in’ with neurotypical (non-autistic) people. The authors consider the social context that facilitates impression management, including an individual’s response to stigma or trauma, and take an intersectional approach to exploring how autistic identity may interact with other aspects of selfhood.

Not only do I read a huge amount of books about autism; I am also honoured to have been asked to contribute to a growing number of autism affirming and neurodivergent affirming books.
For some books I was interviewed by the author and my story was written by them. For other books I contributed by writing a chapter (or two!) and, for one book, I even chose a recipe!
In the article ’ve explained how I was featured and noted where to find my contribution.

"Perhaps a rare combination in this field, it is both a pleasure to read while being academically sound. Bravo to the authors!"
"It is clear, accessible, informative and doesn't make me want to throw it across the room (as most texts on this topic do, in one way or another). Highly recommended"
"Highly recommended for researchers, autistic adults, families, and really anyone who's has an Autistic person in their lives. Oh and people in positions of power who 'don't see the autism', especially them"
"...a call to action for anyone who wants to make the world a better place for Autistic people."
"Kieran is one of a few special individuals really intent on making this a better place for all people. A true Autistic Advocate with incredible insight, skilled and motivated to create positive change."
I know not everyone wants, or needs, to buy one of my books or training courses, but I often find people will read one of my free articles and want to say ‘thank you’ (and this is really appreciated as they’re a lot of work to write!)
Buying me a virtual coffee is a really easy way to say thanks.
It also supports me to keep being able to create new, free content and also keep my older, free content up-to-date. It also allows me to keep my website ad-free.
My Autism FAQs page is a good place to start if you’re new to my work and want to explore more. Thanks for your support, Kieran.
And, as a thank you for joining, you'll get a 10% off code emailed to you which you can use on Kieran's on-demand autism training
Kieran Rose - The Autistic Advocate; advocating for the Autistic community since 2017
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