Kay Kerr is a former journalist and community newspaper editor from Brisbane, now living on the Sunshine Coast with her husband and daughter and working as a freelance writer. Kay was writing the first draft of Please Don't Hug Me, her first book, when she received her own autism-spectrum diagnosis
'This own-voices Australian debut about a young woman who is shaped-but not defined-by her autism, balances its funny and serious sides perfectly, and is a heartwarming read about self-acceptance and authenticity.' * Leanne Hall * 'This book is beautifully intimate, and so authentic. You're going to love getting to know its central character, Erin. I'm so thrilled this book exists.' * Claire Christian * 'A moving and insightful story about finding your place in the world.' * Nina Kenwood * 'Kay Kerr is a skilful writer who deftly balances the serious and the light in this coming-of-age narrative...This is another exciting release in Australian young adult fiction that I can't wait to recommend to a host of sharp and curious minds.' * Books+Publishing * 'Essential reading.' * CBCA Victoria * 'Funny and serious.' * West Weekend * 'It's intimate, raw and authentic ... Watching Erin grow, accept herself, and find new friendships made my heart burst, in a way that is so much more intense than normal.' * Melbourne Writers Festival * 'Please Don't Hug Me is a great read for other neurodiverse readers looking to read a voice like theirs, or for neurotypical readers looking to explore life from a different perspective.' * Good Reading *