Date: 10/5/2025, 6 PM EST

Virtual

Host: Hannah H.

Book we'll be discussing:

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime

This book has been banned because the protagonist, an autistic teenager, talks about his atheism. In doing so, a book is banned that promotes the two things that all people with neurodiversity and those who advocate for them recognize as essential for their wellbeing and inclusion: Understanding and Compassion. I am a retired veterinary scientist/educator and parent of an autistic individual, have autistic traits myself, and I am writing a paper on the need to improve the understanding and acceptance of autism in the veterinary profession.

I would like this book discussion to include any experiences participants would like to share as neurodiverse individuals, parents of neurodiverse individuals, and really anyone concerned about current rhetoric about autism, DEI, and educational support for neurodiverse students. The book has some great passages that I hope we can read together, including the "objectionable" one.

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The "Defense of Democracy READOUT" is an event series that happens during Banned Books Week (October 5-11 2025).

Volunteer "Hosts" choose a book to highlight, pick a date and location to discuss the book, and invite their friends to participate, with the goal of raising funds to support Defense of Democracy.

Readout Hosts can hold their discussions in person or virtually, and Defense of Democracy can even introduce hosts to specific authors or local librarians who can assist in moderating the conversation.

Ready to strike a blow against the forces of darkness banning books in America? Join our Readout campaign during Banned Books Week where Defense of Democracy volunteers across the country will be hosting book readings that feature their favorite banned books. Readout events last year raised awareness of the growing menace of book banning, and raised money to help us overturn these pernicious bans.

Want to host your own Readout event? You can register here!

READOUT 2025 | Team Neurodiversity Adversity

By Defense of Democracy, Inc.

READOUT 2025 | Team Neurodiversity Adversity

Celebrate Banned Books 2025 | Week October 5-11