The Coddling Of The Amerian Mind: How Good Intentions And Bad Ideas Are Setting Up A Generation For Failure

by Greg Lukianoff, Jonathan Haidt
The Coddling Of The Amerian Mind: How Good Intentions And Bad Ideas Are Setting Up A Generation For Failure cover
Good Books rating 4.25
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  • ID: 4066
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
bostonreviewofbooks.substack.com · Unknown · 2025-10-22
brilliant 4.00

The reviewer found 'Nevernight' to be a stroke of genius, praising its unique narrative style and world-building. They appreciated the footnotes and dual timeline, though it took some getting used to. The book is unflinchingly graphic and not for young adults, but it's highly recommended for fans of grimdark.

The reviewer admits to being late to the Jay Kristoff party but is glad they finally picked up 'Nevernight'. They found the book to be a stroke of genius, with a unique narrative style that includes an anonymous omniscient narrator and fascinating footnotes. The dual timeline was initially jarring but became more natural as the story progressed. The world-building was intricate, with a power structure and religion that took some getting used to, but the footnotes helped clarify these aspects. The reviewer emphasizes that this is not a young adult novel, as it contains graphic content and mature themes. They highly recommend it for fans of grimdark and are excited to read the next installment in the trilogy.

Quick quotes

    It is a stroke of genius.

    I loved the writing style of having an anonymous omniscient narrator recounting Mia’s tale.

    This is absolutely an adult grimdark novel and it is unflinchingly graphic in places.

reformage.org · Unknown · 2025-10-22
insightful 3.50

The book explores how well-intentioned but misguided ideas are harming a generation, focusing on the unintended consequences of safetyism and emotional reasoning. It argues for a return to critical thinking and resilience, though some may find its solutions lacking in depth.

The Coddling of the American Mind delves into the modern phenomenon of safetyism, where protecting individuals from discomfort is prioritized over building resilience. The authors argue that this approach, combined with emotional reasoning, is setting up a generation for failure by stifling critical thinking and personal growth. While the book effectively highlights these issues, some readers might feel that the proposed solutions are not as thoroughly developed as the critique itself. The discussion on the impact of social media and the pressure to conform to certain ideological standards is particularly insightful, offering a nuanced look at contemporary societal challenges. Overall, the book serves as a thought-provoking examination of the cultural shifts that are shaping the future of a generation.

Quick quotes

    The book's central thesis is that "safetyism" is harming a generation.

    The authors argue that "emotional reasoning" is a dangerous path.

    The solutions proposed are not as robust as the critique.

litreadernotes.com · Unknown · 2022-11-11
brilliant 5.00

The Nevernight Chronicle by Jay Kristoff is a completed trilogy that has earned a 5-star rating for all three books. The series follows Mia Corvere, an orphan seeking revenge, and is praised for its emotional rollercoaster, humor, and well-developed characters.

The Nevernight Chronicle by Jay Kristoff is a series that has managed to achieve a 5-star rating for each of its three books, a feat the reviewer had never encountered before. The story centers around Mia Corvere, an orphan driven by betrayal and revenge. The first book, in particular, is lauded for its compelling protagonist, Mia, who is both ambitious and deeply complex. The series is also noted for its humor and unique footnotes, which initially took some getting used to but ultimately enhanced the reading experience. The emotional journey is intense, with twists that evoke strong reactions, from sobbing to screaming. The reviewer, who typically remains unemotional about books, found this series to be an exceptional and unforgettable experience. It's a trilogy that is highly recommended for its engaging narrative and powerful character development.

Quick quotes

    I have never given a series a full 5 star rating for every book…until now.

    The first book was everything I wanted and more.

    The Nevernight Chronicles is a completed trilogy in paperback and one you should all take the time to read!

academeblog.org · Unknown · 2018-12-28
brilliant 4.50

The reviewer found 'Nevernight' to be an incredible book with a brilliant execution of a dark revenge tale. They appreciated the world-building, character development, and engaging action scenes, despite some minor issues with prose and a lengthy sex scene. The reviewer highly recommends the book and is eager to read the next installment.

The reviewer was thoroughly impressed with 'Nevernight', describing it as an incredible book that they couldn't put down. They appreciated the unique blend of YA and adult fantasy elements, finding the main character, Mia, to be relatable and well-developed. The reviewer also praised the world-building, comparing it to other popular fantasy series. They noted that the book's themes of revenge, love, and friendship were executed brilliantly, despite some minor issues with the prose and a lengthy sex scene. The reviewer highly recommends 'Nevernight' to fans of fantasy and is eager to dive into the next book in the series.

Quick quotes

    Too many books. Too few centuries.

    The books we love, they love us back. And just as we mark our places in the pages, those pages leave their marks on us. I can see it in you, sure as I see it in me. You’re a daughter of the words. A girl with a story to tell.

    The brighter the light, the deeper the shadow.

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