kparrott's review against another edition

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4.0

Pretty good book.

Good motivation for working out/working hard at something as well as a good book for coaches to read

michaelanocz's review against another edition

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5.0

The Talent Code helps to put a finger on what is out there but no one speaks about. I only wish that I will be able to put all this knowledge into practice one day. I really liked this book, as it perfectly complemented reading Behave by Robert Sapolsky recently.

metropolis's review against another edition

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4.0

This is a fun, easy to read and highly motivational book on the subject of talent and skill development. It takes the approach of focusing on numerous case studies, while putting them in the context of some basic neuroscience - focusing on the biology of the brain substance myelin.

The central message is that there are basic identifiable and understandable approaches to the fostering of talent as apposed to just random factors or supposed ‘natural born’ talent.

It casts it light mainly on the approach of real world talent hotbeds from across the globe. The science is kept simple and it doesn’t focus on stats or formal experiments. The tone and feel of the book remains light but engaging throughout.

Among the number of notable books I’ve read on this subject this one definitely holds its own. I will be reading a few more of the remaining standout titles in this area (such as ‘Peak’ by Anders Ericsson) and I’ll likely return to write an extended review comparing and contrasting this title with the other similar ones that I’ve read.

For now I can happily recommend this book as I found it to be a simple but enjoyable read.

neon_capricorn's review against another edition

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4.0

A good look into the science of talent. This book sums up talent in a way that people have known forever: to be good at something requires passion and practice. Whatever you do, pursue it with a strong dedication to be the best you can be.

benrogerswpg's review against another edition

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4.0

Really great book! Learned a lot!

Highly recommended!

3.8/5

andyreadsfantasy's review against another edition

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5.0

I listened to the audiobook.

I had to give this book 5 stars because it is a source/reference book for so many other great leadership/self-improvement books. I recommend that everyone read it.

niniane's review against another edition

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5.0

Interesting description of myelin (brain insulation) and how it affects learning. Pragmatic tips on how to learn faster.

ioana_cis's review against another edition

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4.0

Daniel Coyle spent a lot of time interviewing elite persons - from different domains - to try to identify the code of performance.
One thing that Coyle explores is the concept of "deep practice" — the focused, deliberate, and often repetitive training that leads to significant improvement in skill. He presents numerous real-world examples and anecdotes from various domains, from the tiny Brazilian town that produces soccer legends to the music academies of Russia, all of which offer insights into how individuals can harness the power of deep practice to excel in their chosen pursuits.

Second, he introduces the idea of "ignition," the initial spark that kindles a person's passion and commitment to their craft. He also underscores the significance of "master coaches" who provide guidance, support, and the right environment for talent to flourish.

And not to forget the need for a community, with a specific culture to support the growth. Culture can be a powerful catalyst for skill acquisition. Another thing mentioned is the need, the reality of making mistakes and facing challenges, which are an essential part of deep practice and skill development.

I got to learn about Myelin and Neuroplasticity - crucial processes for skill acquisition and improvement. Myelin acts as an insulator around nerve fibers and allows for more efficient neural communication, which enhances skill development. Coyle explains that neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout a person's life.

As a recap, the author mentioned three key steps in the talent development process: ignition (finding one's passion), deep practice (the focused and deliberate effort to improve), and master coaching (receiving expert guidance). The famous "10,000-hour rule," is also discussed, as he has a nuanced perspective on this rule, emphasizing that not all practice is equal, and it's the quality of practice that matters more than the quantity.

mdrenen's review against another edition

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3.0

I liked this book, but some of the physiology was inaccurate.

chamlet5127's review against another edition

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3.0

I don't know if it's "spoilers" for a non-fiction "self-help" book, but it boils down to -- instilling drive and actively practicing beyond your current limits. And praising effort is often better than intelligence as a sustained and effective motivator. It was written in 2009 though, so this might have been news then. A lot of anecdotes and very little substantial data. Nice as a motivator perhaps, but not a "magic secret". Also, has a weird fixation on myelin.