Books can be powerful tools for building understanding, shifting perspective, and finding language for experiences that are often hard to explain. For parents, teens, and young adults navigating ADHD, emotional regulation, and executive functioning challenges, the right book can offer reassurance, practical strategies, and a sense of not being alone.

Below are several books I often recommend. Each offers a different lens, whether you’re looking to better understand ADHD, support emotional growth, or learn practical ways to problem-solve and communicate more effectively.

Book Recommendations

Smart but Scattered

Great resource for parents of kids with ADHD:

https://amzn.to/3L4N1xg

This book focuses on executive functioning skills and helps parents better understand why bright, capable kids may still struggle with organization, planning, and follow-through. It offers practical guidance and tools to support skill development at home in a way that feels structured and approachable.

Taking Charge of ADHD: The Complete Authoritative Guide for Parents

Written by Russell Barkley, widely considered the expert on ADHD:

https://amzn.to/4o7ra6Q

This book provides a comprehensive and research-informed look at ADHD. It is especially helpful for parents who want a deeper understanding of ADHD, along with clear guidance on evidence-based supports and strategies.

The Explosive Child (Sixth Edition): A New Approach for Understanding and Parenting Easily Frustrated, Chronically Inflexible Children

Great resource for learning how to problem-solve collaboratively:

https://a.co/d/eQPtHkV

This book introduces a collaborative, empathetic approach to understanding challenging behavior. It is particularly helpful for caregivers navigating big emotions, rigidity, and frequent frustration, with a strong emphasis on connection and problem-solving rather than punishment.

The Emotional Lives of Teenagers by Lisa Damour

All of her books are full of wisdom and practical advice:

https://amzn.to/4o45vMN

Lisa Damour offers thoughtful, compassionate insight into the emotional world of teenagers. This book helps caregivers better understand emotional development during adolescence and provides guidance for supporting teens through stress, growth, and change.

ADHD is Awesome: A Guide to (Mostly) Thriving with ADHD

By Penn and Kim Holderness. Super accessible, full of good information. An excellent read for both kids and parents:

https://a.co/d/36lgrSN

This book presents ADHD in a strengths-based, relatable way. It is approachable, affirming, and often resonates with both teens and adults, making it a great shared read for families.

A Final Thought

No single book has all the answers, but the right resources can help shift understanding, build empathy, and open the door to more effective support. Books can complement coaching by providing language, insight, and strategies that help skills take root in everyday life.

From overwhelmed to organized often begins with understanding, compassion, and the right support along the way.

_{Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost. I only recommend my favorite products that I have personally used with clients.}