Uta Frith has been an outstandingly influential figure in the field of developmental neuropsychology for over 40 years, and is internationally renowned for her work on developmental cognitive disorders. Her scholarly influence has defined contemporary research on atypical development, notably in the fields of autism and dyslexia. This tribute to Uta brings together her former graduate students, post-doctoral scientists and collaborators in a series of papers that provide reflections on current theory and research. The volume bears the hallmark of Uta's mentoring by including critical 'state of the art' reviews, empirical research which challenges mainstream views and consideration of alternative hypotheses that set the stage for future research. Topics covered include behavioural and neuroimaging studies of autism, dyslexia, psychopathy, as well as theoretical and experimental accounts of normal and abnormal development of intelligence, reading and social cognition. This special issue of the Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology will be of interest to all students and researchers in the area.