Beginners
The Curious Power of Lifelong Learning
by Tom Vanderbilt
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Pub Date 7 Jan 2021 | Archive Date 18 Jan 2021
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Description
Discover why learning is good for us and how to develop a 'Beginner's Mindset'
'Beginners belongs on the list of books that have changed the way I understand my own limitations.' Malcolm Gladwell
For many of us, the last time we learned a new skill was during childhood. We live in an age which reveres expertise but looks down on the beginner. Upon entering adulthood and middle age, we begin to shy away from trying new things, instead preferring to stay nestled firmly in our comfort zones.
Beginners asks the question: why are children the only ones allowed to experience the inherent fun of facing daily challenges? And could we benefit from embracing new skills, even if we're initially hopeless? Bestselling author Tom Vanderbilt sets out to find the answer, tasking himself with acquiring several new skills under the tutelage of professionals, including drawing, juggling, surfing and much more. Witty and often surprisingly profound, Beginners is an uplifting exploration of the science of brain plasticity and how we can learn how to learn anew.
Advance Praise
'Tom Vanderbilt elegantly and persuasively tackles one of the most pernicious of the lies we tells ourselves - that the pleasures of learning are reserved for the young. Beginners belongs on the list of books that have changed the way I understand my own limitations.' Malcolm Gladwell
'Wonderful... [Vanderbilt] explores how to learn completely new skills, how to change our world - even after we're supposed to be done with schooling. This is a book about how to become a beginner again, and it makes you want to plunge in with both feet.' Charles Duhigg, bestselling author of The Power of Habit
'A surprising, enlightening look at the psychology of human beings behind the steering wheel... Required reading for anyone applying for a driver's license.' New York Times on Traffic
'Engagingly written, meticulously researched, endlessly interesting and informative.' Washington Post on Traffic
'Smart and comprehensive... Vanderbilt's book is likely to remain relevant well into the new century.' The New Republic on Traffic
Available Editions
| EDITION | Hardcover |
| ISBN | 9781786493095 |
| PRICE | £16.99 (GBP) |
Links
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Philippa L, Reviewer
Right, that does it. I've read Tom Vanderbilt's book and I've written a list of things I want to be a beginner at. I'm going to join him and be a Beginner. Again.
I have been entertained and inspired by this book. A brilliant mix of stories, scientific findings, good humour and a nice narrative pace.
When a book inspires you to take action, you have to conclude that it's a powerful and purposeful book. I've joined Vanderbilt on his various journeys (via the book), and the people he meets, and the adventures he's had.
Wonderful. Go read it if you are into self-development in any shape or form!
Educator 388984
This is a book I expect to find soon in the "Smart thinking" section of any bookshop, and it follows the usual recipe - a mix of personal experience, a bit of science, some interviews with experts, and nicely packed life lessons. It's exactly what "Beginners" delivers and I really liked it. I found it interesting, inspiring and easy to read. The author is inspired by his young daughter to try out some of the things she is learning - chess being the first one, then we have swimming a bit later - and decides to go on a journey to learn new things. Learning has been linked to slower aging and people who keep learning throughout their lives are less likely to develop dementia. The science behind this and behind how we learn (and how come children are bettter learners??) is explored thanks to different scientists or masters of their own fields. I particularly loved the chapter on drawing and reading this book really made me think again about picking up something new and learning more. Really a very enjoyable book.
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