Nicole G. (nyteacher) reviewed David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits and the Art of Battling Giants on + 152 more book reviews
Have you ever noticed that many of the world's most successful people come from a background of hardship? In this book Gladwell explores how perceived disadvantages can actually be advantages. Many of the difficulties that can hold people back, also help develop character traits that promote success. In fact, Gladwell argues that people with too many advantages in youth can be at a disadvantage later.
The format of the book was engaging. It gives a lot of statistics and facts, but still holds the reader's attention. Each chapter starts with a story of a real person. He then uses that story to demonstrate a theory and gives research to back it up. In some ways this book confirmed ideas I already had, but couldn't back up. In other ways, it completely changed by world view. I would recommend it to everyone.
The format of the book was engaging. It gives a lot of statistics and facts, but still holds the reader's attention. Each chapter starts with a story of a real person. He then uses that story to demonstrate a theory and gives research to back it up. In some ways this book confirmed ideas I already had, but couldn't back up. In other ways, it completely changed by world view. I would recommend it to everyone.
jax13 -
I don't really prefer Gladwell's writing. I believe he states the obvious, then overstates it, and overstates it...and acts like he is writing something profound that no one else ever thought of. Although there are some really interesting personal stories in there that I enjoyed. And I have to admire the man's ability to market himself - he's talented there all right!
