Why Can't I Just Enjoy Things? out this summer

Pierre Novellie has written a memoir about his autism, entitled Why Can't I Just Enjoy Things?

It is loosely based on his 2022 stand-up show of the same title which described how he took a test for the condition after a neurodiverse heckler suggested he had Asperger’s.

His diagnosis – at the age of 31 – ‘unravelled his world, explained his struggles and answered questions he's had throughout his life,’ publisher Bonnier say.

The blurb for the book explains: ‘Through observational comedy, Pierre gives the listener an insight into the autist's brain and demystifies some of the daily quirks that those with Autism Spectrum Disorder experience, whilst highlighting a general lack of education about the disorder.’

Novellie’s book follows the success of Fern Brady’s book partially about her autism diagnosis, Strong Female Character, which made the Sunday Times bestseller list and won both the Nero Book Award for non-fiction and the Chortle Award for best book.

Why Can't I Just Enjoy Things?, subtitled A Comedic Guide To Autism, will be published on July 18.

Novellie has a run of his follow-up show, Why Are You Laughing?, at the Soho Theatre in London from March 26, followed by a UK tour in the autumn.

» Pierre​ Novellie tour dates.

Published: 5 Mar 2024