Unmasking Mum

The funny and inspiring memoir about late diagnosed autism and parenting, from the Sunday Times bestselling author of Raising the SEN-Betweeners.

So now it all makes sense. I am to blame for the ’tisms in this household, and the poor hubby is just stuck here in the middle of all of us, with our meltdowns, masking and madness. Once you know, it all starts to add up ...

Like any new parent, when Lisa Lloyd became a mum, her own needs were put at the bottom of a very long list. But for Lisa, adapting to her new life felt almost impossible. The sensory overload, the upheaval, the lack of personal space – how did anyone do it?

What she didn’t know was that this was the start of a journey that would lead to her finally discovering who she really is – at 41, Lisa received her autism diagnosis, and everything started to click into place.

In Unmasking Mum, Lisa shares the story of her late diagnosis to shine a light on the challenges of neurodivergent parenting. From being the ‘odd mum out’ at the school gates, to finding yourself in the middle of an all-family meltdown, this is a powerful story about identity, self-acceptance and what it really means to parent differently.

With honesty, humour and useful tips along the way, Lisa is pulling off the mask, for every parent who suspects their real self may have been hiding all along.

If you too are a parent with autism or ADHD, this candid guide and memoir will help you make sense of the rollercoaster ride we call ‘parenting’.

'Honest, funny and full of heart, Unmasking Mum will make so many parents feel seen and less alone.' – James Hunt, Sunday Times bestselling author of Love Needs No Words

'Heartfelt, comforting and utterly absorbing, this deeply relatable book had me laughing through tears.' – Camilla Thurlow

'Unmasking Mum is another wonderfully honest and raw book by Lisa.' – Kellie Bright

© Lisa Lloyd 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026