08 Sep / Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverts by Susan Cain with Gregory Mone and Erica Moroz [in School Library Journal]
*STARRED REVIEW
Beyoncé, J.K. Rowling, and Albert Einstein are examples of introverts who harnessed their “quiet power” to become iconic successes. Here Susan Cain offers an entertaining, illuminating adaptation of her adult bestseller, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, to help younger readers discover their own “superpowers,” especially during the pivotal, challenging adolescent years. “Being introverted is not something to outgrow; it is something to accept and grow into – and even to cherish.”
With plenty of supporting data – “introversion is also one of the most researched personality traits” – Cain explains how introverts and extroverts have different nervous systems, diverse reactions to stimulation, and that introverts are not antisocial, just “‘differently’ social.” Using ordinary kids’ experiences, which will resonate more effectively than those of the impossibly famous, Cain offers achievable, adaptive behaviors as antidotes to stress, including how to understand your needs, find “your own circle,” communicate clearly, and move beyond your comfort zone. Kathe Mazur’s crisp, encouraging narration will keep kids listening.
Verdict: Since “a third to a half of the human population is introverted,” Cain’s potential audience is enormous, making this an ideal acquisition for all libraries with teen patrons.
Review: modified from “Multimedia,” School Library Journal, September 1, 2016
Readers: Middle Grade, Young Adult
Published: 2016