I just finished a book that is on my list of unfinished business. These snow days allow for less work and more reading time. Before I start the next book I felt the need to share my report on this book.

Let me start and explain WHY I decided to read this book. It’s not a normal book that I would pick up. (I usually pick those parenting / self help book). We had the privilege to hear the author, Malcolm Gladwell, speak at the Catalyst last Fall in Atlanta, GA. Very interesting guy who has written several other best sellers. He has written several other books you might have heard of, The Tipping Point, Blink,  What the Dog Saw.Bernie read this first and recommended it.

This book is thought provoking. It addresses some stereotypes and those ‘rise from the slums, one-in-a million success stories’. Through his in depth studies of cultures, family dynamics, and specific significant historical  periods he brings up theories that are destine to change the minds of many.

Points of Interest:

1. This book reinforces my strong opinion that boys should start Kindergarten when they are 6 years old.
2. There is an interesting story about families from Harlan, Kentucky. A little local shout out!
3. Chapter 9 discusses the types of school, amount of hours spent in school, attitudes towards school, homework after school and attitudes towards school. Being a former educator, I think he brings up some VERY good points. I have always been a fan of a year-round school year. This chapter only reinforces my thoughts.

Jeanne B’s Book Ratings System:

5 Stars: OMG! You must read this! Page turner and can’t hardly put it down!

4 Stars: Good book. Helpful, thought provoking, conversation starters. Definitely recommend this to others.

3 Stars: Ok, not the best I have read, but not a waste of paper.

2 Stars: I felt like I had to read this for a book project in school. Don’t waste your time.

1 Star: I am going to return this book to the store! I didn’t even finish it!

PS—why am I including Book Reviews on my blog?? I think the majority of my readers fall into two categories. Group A: Those who read often, always looking for a good book and have books they recommend to me and we have good conversations about good books. Or B: I have friends who really like to read, might not have any time to do any reading right now, but would still be interested in reading about which books they might pick up if they have time!

Outliers receives 4 stars!

Let me know if you have read this book or others by Gladwell