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Callum & Ethan Knight: Teen Authors
When it comes to challenging the myths about autism and PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), brothers Callum and Ethan Knight aren't just speaking out; they're writing their way into hearts and minds.
Callum's best-selling book, The Secrets of My Spectrum, and Ethan's new book, The PDA Effect, are best sellers in several categories on Amazon.co.uk.
Q & A
How did it feel to write about your own experiences?
Ethan: "I was nervous about it because I always worry about the kind of feedback I'll get and whether I've been able to explain myself well enough to make a difference."
Callum: "I was hoping I could help autism generally be better understood through books about autism in the UK."
What's one myth you really wanted to set straight?
Ethan: "That PDA is neurological, not behavioural; it has nothing to do with parenting or even behaviour. It's a reaction I can't control."
Callum: "The biggest myth for me was that autistic people don't have empathy."
What would you say to another teenager who feels alone because of their autism or PDA?
Ethan: "Don't give up. If, like me, you struggle to express your feelings in words, you're not alone."
Callum: "I would tell them that although their feelings are valid, they aren't alone in their struggles. We are all finding ourselves lost and unsure where to turn at times, but it's important to reach out whenever you can to people you trust."
What was the most challenging part about writing your book, and what was the best part?
Ethan: "The hardest part was working out how to express myself and the insecurity of not knowing whether I was making any sense to people who don't understand what PDA feels like. The best part was when I saw the book for the first time; it felt surreal knowing that I wrote it."
Callum: "I didn't really find the writing hard because I find it easier to express myself than Ethan does. The best part was finding out that it had become a bestseller and people were finding it helpful; I didn't think that would happen, so it was a huge shock, but a really good one."
If you could sum up the message of your book in one sentence, what would it be? Ethan: "It's a book that hopefully will help people understand and accept that PDA isn't a choice."
Callum: "Don't be hard on yourself; just do the best you can day to day and don't compare yourself to other kids your age because we're all on a different path, and there are so many different ways to get there."
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The Secrets of My Spectrum
age 11+
Written when he was just sixteen, The Secrets of My Spectrum offers a heartfelt, jargon-free look at life on the autism spectrum. Diagnosed at thirteen, Callum Knight describes everyday experiences—sensory overload, shutdowns, stimming, anxiety, and social navigation—in short, honest chapters that bring his world vividly to life.
What You’ll Discover
- How sensory challenges and shutdowns feel from the inside
- The role of stimming and soothing behaviours in self-regulation
- Practical insights on anxiety, social situations, and unexpected changes
- Genuine reflections on empathy, special interests, and what makes "good days" good.
Who It’s For
- Parents, carers, and support staff are seeking a deeper understanding.
- Teachers and SENCOs are looking for classroom strategies and empathy.
- Autistic children and teens who want to feel seen, heard, and understood.
Editions & Accessibility
- Notes pages after each chapter—for families and educators to personalise support.
- Large-print edition—for dyslexic and visually impaired readers.
- Available in paperback, ebook, audiobook and bundle saver formats.
Why Readers Love It
- Written by an autistic teen, authentic, clear, and relatable
- Warm, everyday language—no medical jargon.
- Highly rated by parents, educators, and the autism community.
- #1 bestseller in multiple Amazon categories.
- Backed by hundreds of glowing reviews.
table of contents
- Introduction
- Communication
- Travel
- Socialisation
- Focus
- Anxiety
- Soothing Behaviours / Stimming
- Empathy / Accepting Gifts
- Education
- Meltdowns / Shutdowns
- Overthinking Sensory Challenges
- Appointments
- Literal / Visual Thinking
- Unexpected Situations
- Special Interests
- Good Days and Bad
- Conclusion
- About the Author
- Crisis & Helpful People
The PDA Effect
age 11+
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is one of the most misunderstood profiles on the autism spectrum—but this book changes that. Written by 18-year-old Ethan Knight, The PDA Effect offers an honest, first-person guide to living with PDA, sharing what really helps—from decision-making and daily routines to friendships and self-advocacy.
What You’ll Discover
- How PDA shapes thinking, behaviour, and social interactions.
- Real accounts of overwhelm, sensory sensitivities, and communication styles.
- Practical strategies to reduce pressure, build confidence, and support learning.
- Ways to create calm spaces and explain needs to trusted adults.
Who It’s For
- Parents, carers, and support workers seeking clarity on PDA.
- Teachers, SENCOs, and therapists looking for actionable classroom tips.
- Autistic teens and adults who want to feel understood and empowered.
- Professionals and advocates aiming to dispel PDA myths.
Editions & Accessibility
- Space after each chapter for personal notes and reflections.
- Available in paperback, ebook, and signed-edition formats.
- Bundle saver available when purchased with The Secrets of My Spectrum.
Why Readers Love It
- Written by someone who lives with PDA—authentic and relatable.
- Clear, jargon-free language for all ages.
- Hands-on advice for coping strategies and self-regulation.
- Validates lived experience and builds empathy.
table of contents
- Introduction
- Understanding PDA
- What It Feels Like for Me
- The Struggle of PDA
- How PDA Affects My Learning
- Making Learning Easier
- Reducing Pressure and Building Confidence
- Strategies for Support
- Ways to Make Things Easier
- Praise and Feeling Understood
- Asking How You Can Help
- Friendships and Social Life
- My Communication Style Might Be Different
- Small Calm Environments Work Best
- Sensitivities: What Overwhelms Me
- Touch Can Feel Uncomfortable
- Strong Smells Are Too Overpowering
- How I Manage All of This
- Masking, Burnout, and Seeking Support
- What Is Autistic Burnout?
- When I’m Struggling
- How Parents Can Help
- Explaining My Needs to My Family
- What I Wish People Understood
- Just Because I Seem Fine, Doesn’t Mean I Am
- Final Thoughts
- Organisations and Support Groups
- About the Author