Paul Tough's How
Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character is an
eye-opening look at what causes students to not only attend college, but to
graduate from college. This book is a
must-read for educators and parents alike.
Reading
this book, I felt like Tough was writing what I've been thinking for
years. Intelligence is certainly a key
factor in student success, but it isn't everything. We all know extremely intelligent people who
have floundered through life, allowing drugs and other addictions to take the
place of worthwhile pursuits. And we all
know less intelligent people who have done extremely well in their chosen fields.
What
makes the difference? Tough examines
anecdotal evidence and research alike to come to the conclusion that it is
character traits that cause people to succeed - not just at college, but in
life in general. These character traits
aren't just morals like honesty and generosity.
They are things like stick-to-it-ness (grit), curiosity, and a strong
work ethic.
This book
does not answer the question of how to teach people these traits. But it makes a strong case that they can be
learned. Anyone who does not understand
why education is so deeply linked to psychology will learn a great deal from this
book. It is a wonderful springboard for
a vital conversation - what should we be teaching our children.
Well
done, Mr. Tough. Someone finally said
it!
Five out of Five Stars
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