Outliers

by Malcolm Gladwell
Outliers cover
Good Books rating 3.33
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  • ID: 10284
  • Added: 2026-01-19
  • Updated: 2026-01-19
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Chick Who Reads Everything · 2022-09-05
positive 4.00

The book is recommended for those who enjoy Gladwell's other works and are not looking for solutions. It's a thought-provoking read.

The reviewer from Chick Who Reads Everything finds 'Outliers' to be a thought-provoking read, especially for fans of Malcolm Gladwell's other works. They recommend it to those who are not looking for solutions but are interested in exploring the reasons behind success. The book is praised for its engaging stories and examples, which make it an enjoyable read. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to make complex topics accessible and engaging.

Quick quotes

    It's definitely a book for those not looking for solutions.

    I would also recommend it to those who love Gladwell's other works.

    It's a fascinating and surprisingly easy read, considering the complexity of the topic.

The Guardian · 2008-11-22
mixed 3.50

The book presents a clever argument about success but ultimately feels like a conversation with oneself. It's engaging yet somewhat self-indulgent.

The Guardian's reviewer finds Malcolm Gladwell's 'Outliers' to be a clever exploration of success, but they feel the book is ultimately a long argument with himself. While the insights are engaging, the reviewer feels that Gladwell's self-indulgence detracts from the overall impact. The book is praised for its cleverness but criticized for its lack of external dialogue. The reviewer appreciates the unique perspective but wishes for a more balanced discussion.

Quick quotes

    The trouble with the book is that Gladwell is ultimately engaged in a long argument with nobody but himself.

    Stating the obvious, but oh so cleverly.

    Gladwell's self-indulgence detracts from the overall impact.

Goodreads · 2008-11-18
negative 2.50

The book is criticized for its sloppy science and shoddy reasoning, despite its interesting premise. It fails to provide a solid explanation of success.

Goodreads reviewers are divided on 'Outliers', with many criticizing its scientific rigor. They find the premise interesting but feel that the book falls short in providing a solid explanation of success. The reviewer points out that the book's reasoning is shoddy and its science is sloppy, which detracts from its overall credibility. Despite its engaging stories, the lack of solid evidence and logical reasoning makes it a less convincing read.

Quick quotes

    However, as a guide or explanation of success, it is an example of truly sloppy science and shoddy reasoning.

    True, successful people don't get there just because they are smarter or more talented.

    The book's reasoning is shoddy and its science is sloppy.

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