Outliers: The Story of Success

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Malcolm Gladwell

Little, Brown and Co., New York, 2008, English

Design, General

ISBN: 9780316017923

From the Publisher. Malcolm Gladwell takes us on an intellectual journey through the world of "outliers"—the best and the brightest, the most famous and the most successful. He asks the question: what makes high-achievers different? His answer is that we pay too much attention to what successful people are like, and too little attention to where they are from: that is, their culture, their family, their generation, and the idiosyncratic experiences of their upbringing. Along the way he explains the secrets of software billionaires, what it takes to be a great soccer player, why Asians are good at math, and what made the Beatles the greatest rock band.

On 3 book lists

Gail Anderson

On Gail Anderson’s Book List

One of the smartest and most interesting volumes I’ve ever listened to on audiobook. It pretty much proves the notion that success doesn’t just happen by chance. I enjoy Malcolm Gladwell’s voice, too, so this one’s gotten lots of car time. (And I’ve seen him around my neighborhood and have almost said hi, since I feel like we’re old friends after so many listens.)

Jeffrey Bernett

On Jeffrey Bernett’s Book List

Gladwell’s book is about what factors make high achievers the best and the brightest, and the most successful and unique. An insightful and provocative look at the Rubik’s Cube of life—chance, luck, dedication, and determination.

Lisa Jenks

On Lisa Jenks’s Book List

I love Gladwell’s take on success, with such interesting explanations of his theory—from hockey players to Bill Gates to the Beatles.

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