I thought so as well. I read one of Gladwell's earlier books and thought it was just "okay", but I really enjoyed this one. Of particular interest were the sections on how age influences academic and athletic success, because we have young children that will soon be school-age. My wife and I have long assumed that this phenomenon existed, but he makes the strongest case for it that I've seen.
What did you think of Frankl’s book?
I enjoyed it. My wife read it years ago and still feels that it's among the most impactful books she ever read. I wouldn't put it in that category for me, because I already believed the book's central premise (i.e. that one always has the freedom to choose their course of action no matter the circumstance). I do think my views and philosophy are now more well-informed based upon the way Frankl constructed his argument.
What I found more interesting is his relatively dispassionate analysis of his time in camp, given the fact that he lived it firsthand. I expected some emotion to creep into his writing and perhaps influence his argument, but I really didn't find that.
By the way, I read it on my Nook, so included with the download was a foreword, afterword, and an "after-afterword" that were interesting reads as well. I found it well worth the time; it isn't a long book.
I too read one of Gladwell’s earlier books which I cannot recall the name of right now, but I found his conclusions a stretch and more an attempt to fit his worldview than to find the facts.
Outliers was very interesting and more ‘scientific’ in his data sets.
As regards your school age children, have you ever considered or are you considering home schooling? We do and we don’t regret it at all. It is easier than you think and you’ll love the outcome. If you can do it I highly recommend it. If you’d like some insights or advice please FReepmail me.
Regarding Frankl, I too accept his central premise, although I find him amazing. His response and ability to clinically analyze his history without grief or rage is superhuman in my opinion. I’m not that Christlike.
What insights did you find in the Nook ‘extras’?