Alex Atherton from Palmers Green has written The Snowflake Myth based on his experience working with young people

Alex Atherton works as a leadership coach

A former headteacher from Palmers Green has written a book around the challenges of negative stereotypes surrounding Generation Z – young people currently aged from 15 to 30.

Alex Atherton, who was formerly a headteacher at Park View School in South Tottenham and now works as a leadership coach, says he was inspired to write his book The Snowflake Myth after hearing the negative term used “once too often”.

Drawing on his years of experience working with thousands of students, Alex argues in his book that, far from being lazy, entitled, or unreliable, Gen Z represents “our most diligent, pragmatic, and patient generation yet”.

The cycling enthusiast dissects persistent misconceptions — from so-called ‘instant’ needs to claims of workplace apathy — showcasing instead a generation shaped by economic uncertainty and digital transformation.

The book offers practical strategies for organisations seeking to recruit, retain, and develop Gen Z talent, and also provides guidance for managers struggling with multi-generational workplaces and parents who want to a better understanding of their children.

Alex explained: “The idea behind it is that I was sick of hearing the generation of students I had been responsible for as a secondary school headteacher described in derogatory ways, by the media and also my peers.

“I had one leadership coaching client after another saying to me that they couldn’t recruit or retain young staff, but when they did have them they didn’t understand them. There was clearly a gap to fill.”

Alex decided to write the book as the issue was brought up again and again, including questions he was getting after speaking at conferences.

He continued: “A lot of them came from business leaders who were also parents of those in their twenties. On the one hand they were frustrated by their young staff, and the other concerned for their adult sons and daughters. They couldn’t see the world through their eyes, and my book is an attempt to bridge the gap.”

On the experience of writing the book, Alex added: “Writing a book is like climbing a series of increasingly challenging mountains. Just when you think you have finished, another one appears from round the corner. I’ve enjoyed it but will think hard about ever writing another!”

The Snowflake Myth is due to be published on Monday, 29th September. To pre-order a copy:
Visit alexatherton.com/snowflake-myth

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