Literally: A Joyful Guide to the Ups and Downs of Being Autistic by Ella Willis offers a joyful, realistic, and relatable guide for autistic individuals, those who suspect they might be autistic, and loved ones of autistic people. Illustrator and content creator Ella Willis shares their personal journey following a formal diagnosis at age 22, making sense of experiences like social blunders, overstimulation, and intense special interests.

This book aims to destigmatize neurodivergence by providing accessible, practical, and hopeful advice across the autistic experience.

• Autistic people can take things literally.
• The book is literal: clear in language, easy to understand, and accessible.
• It is highly relatable, prompting the reaction, ‘LITERALLY!’

Ella Willis uses personal stories, research, illustrations, and interviews to provide a clear-eyed view of what it means to be autistic. Topics covered include:

• The process of getting a diagnosis versus self-diagnosis.
• Understanding and managing stimming and masking.
• Navigating relationships and sensory issues.

This guide is designed to help autistic individuals and their support networks thrive.

• Author: Ella Willis
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Print Length: 288 pages
• Reading Age: 18 years and up
• Dimensions: 14.4 x 2.7 x 22.5 cm
• Weight: 273 g
• ISBN-13: 978-1035078332
• Publication Date: June 4, 2026

Gain clear insight and practical support for thriving with the autistic experience through this essential guide by Ella Willis.