The Myth of Laziness

by Mel Levine
The Myth of Laziness cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Psychology and Human Behavior
Technical
  • ID: 3242
  • Added: 2025-10-17
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • ISBN: 9780743250757
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2003-01-09
  • Reviews: 3

In 'The Myth of Laziness', Dr. Mel Levine argues that what is often labeled as laziness is actually a result of neurodevelopmental dysfunctions. He identifies seven forms of dysfunction that obstruct output, sharing case studies of children, adolescents, and adults he has worked with to illustrate these issues. The book emphasizes the importance of recognizing these problems early to provide appropriate support and corrective action, rather than stigmatizing individuals with accusations of laziness. Dr. Levine explains how writing can serve as a key indicator of productivity issues, as it integrates multiple neurodevelopmental functions. By understanding and addressing these underlying problems, parents and educators can help children develop essential skills and lead fulfilling, productive lives. The book offers practical advice and a compassionate approach to nurturing strengths and improving productivity.

Reviews
Amazon · 2025-10-17
enlightening 4.50

The book is appreciated for its easy readability and the inclusion of case studies that effectively explain each myth. It has made a significant impact on the reviewer's perspective on learning difficulties.

An Amazon reviewer shares that this book was an easy read, enhanced by the inclusion of case studies that clearly explain each myth. They read it for a class and found it so impactful that it changed their perspective on learning difficulties. The reviewer appreciates how the book challenges common misconceptions about laziness and provides a more nuanced understanding of the underlying issues. The practical advice and case studies make it a valuable resource for anyone looking to support children with learning challenges.

Quick quotes

    "It was an easy read with case studies to fully explain each myth."

    "I read it for a class and am so very glad I did."

    "It has made me reconsider my original thoughts on learning difficulties."

Literacy Leader · 2007-09-20
informative 4.20

The book is considered a worthwhile read, even for those not primarily focused on literacy, as it provides valuable insights into neurodevelopmental dysfunctions. It is seen as a great companion book for understanding learning challenges.

The reviewer from Literacy Leader found this book to be a valuable read, even though it isn't solely about literacy. They believe it complements the topic well by offering a deeper understanding of neurodevelopmental dysfunctions that can lead to learning difficulties. The book is seen as a practical guide that provides day-to-day strategies for parents and teachers to support children who struggle with output failure. The reviewer appreciates the compassionate tone and the practical advice offered, making it a worthwhile read for anyone involved in education.

Quick quotes

    "While this book isn't about literacy I felt like it was a great companion book for this topic."

    "It is a worthwhile read, listen in my case, providing valuable insights into neurodevelopmental dysfunctions."

    "The book offers day-to-day strategies and support to prevent output failure and support children better."

The Guardian · 2004-03-13
insightful 4.00

The book offers a thoughtful exploration of why some children struggle with writing tasks, providing a vivid analysis of the underlying issues. It challenges the notion of laziness and offers practical insights into neurodevelopmental difficulties.

The Guardian's review highlights how this book delves deep into the reasons why some children find writing particularly challenging. They appreciate the vivid exploration of neurodevelopmental difficulties that often get mislabeled as laziness. The book is praised for its compassionate and practical approach, offering strategies that can help both parents and teachers understand and support children better. The reviewer finds the book to be a valuable resource for anyone dealing with learning difficulties in children.

Quick quotes

    "The Myth of Laziness by Mel Levine is a thoughtful and vivid exploration of why some children have specific difficulties learning to write."

    "It challenges the notion of laziness and offers practical insights into neurodevelopmental difficulties."

    "The book is praised for its compassionate and practical approach, offering strategies that can help both parents and teachers understand and support children better."

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