Outliers - Malcolm Gladwell (2008)

In Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell explores factors that lead to extraordinary success. As the title implies, Gladwell refers to those who enjoy such success as "Outliers." Examples of Outliers include Bill Gates, the Beatles and Robert Oppenheimer among others.

Gladwell demonstrates that many factors determine success that go well beyond the personal traits and talents of the individual. Can success be determined by the month in which you were born? What role do your ancestors and culture play in deciding how successful you may become? How smart is smart enough (you might be surprised)? And if you are smart enough, what can you do to become an outstanding success? What is magical about 10,000 hours?

This is a book with serious implications for educators. I encourage everyone to read it. If you would like a more detailed summary, see my entry in the ERDTS Shared Research Database by clicking on the title.