Introverts -- Buy two copies of this book
348387
This is a wonderful book for the Introvert in your life. If that Introvert is _you_, consider getting two copies: one to read and one to share with friends, co-workers, and family members.

It's a light read, but well written and well organized. My favorite chapter, "Don't Call Us, We'll Call... Well, No, Maybe We Won't" describes many Introvert's love/hate relationship with phone calls. We may love the person on the other end of the line (Hi Mom!) but we hate communicating by telephone. (It may not just be Introverts who feel this way. According to Neilsen, in 2008 people were sending or receiving more texts on mobile "phones" than phone calls.)
2251244
As an outgoing introvert, I found this book very helpful. The author uses a tremendous amount of references and studies that take some effort to digest, thus the 4-star rating. Overall an extremely helpful resource for understanding how introverts think, and what makes them valuable.
2220557
Such a helpful book for those living with Introverts. This will change the way I relate to my wife forever. I especially recommend this book for managers of software developers. (It could also apply to engineers in general, but I will stick to what I know.) So many great software engineers are introverts. Protecting genius requires understanding its most sensitive parts and putting up defenses there.
1091202
You must read this if you are an introvert (not "intorvert" with the negative connotation, but someone who spends energy when dealing with others, rather than generates it by interacting with others).  Easy to understand, practical - it explains so much about how introverts "tick" (the author suggest 25% are introverts).
2279985
This book changed my life. I've always been very ashamed to be an introvert. I thought it was unnatural to not attend fabulous parties and be surrounded by hoards of people. I thought preferring to work alone meant I was antisocial and mean. I thought being able to count my friends on one hand meant I was unlikable. None of that is true. This book really helped me appreciate my good qualities and become more self-confident. Plus, it's just an interesting read. The best part is that it doesn't bash extroverts. In fact, it shows how essential it is for the two types to live and work together; it creates good harmony.
2343173
brilliant, absolutely brilliant.  if you are an introvert or know an introvert (you do even if you don't think you do) then this book is a must-read!
2125986
Driving home from work on a Friday a few years ago, I was exhausted and frustrated. Robin, my wife (and carpool companion in those days), quietly listened to me vent. She asked me what I wanted to do. I replied that I wanted to have six or eight people over for a dinner party. She laughed and explained that my response was the most tell-tale sign of my extraversion. When exhausted, I seek energy from interacting with others.

I recently read Susan Cain's Quiet hoping to learn more about the internal life of introverts. I wanted to better understand the one-third to one-half of the students and adults I work with who are introverts. I wanted to better understand my wife; Robin and I are the opposite on every letter of the Meyers-Briggs spectrum. I learned so much more.

Cain convincingly argues that our society idealizes extraversion and the results are not necessarily ideal. I was particularly intrigued by her description of a national shift from a "culture of character" to a "culture of personality." Cain writes that we have moved away valuing inner virtue to favoring, instead, "outer charm."

While it is hard to question that we do live in a society that idealizes extraversion, I was initially skeptical about her claim that the result of the extroverted social norm is often less effective. I, like many others, believed in the power of group processes. I like to think that "we are better together." Cain presents a wide range of research that shows how groups often get in their own way. I was particularly convinced by her argument against the open office plan. I have started to believe, as Cain writes, that "If you have talented, motivated people, they should be encouraged to work alone when creativity or efficiency is the highest priority."

Part Two of Quiet looks at the biology, the nature rather than the nurture, of quiet people. Cain digs deeply into the writings of Elaine Aron, the author of The Highly Sensitive Child as well as the Orchid Hypothesis. While I did not find this part of the book as compelling, it might resonate more for an introvert or the parent of an introvert.

The final chapters of Quiet offer advice for introverts and extroverts alike. Here are a few things that I am now trying to do or consider:
- Extroverts often get their way and it is not always the right way. Cain references a funny Harvard Business Review comic with a stock chart plummeting and the caption, "It's all because of Fradkin. He has terrible business sense, but great leadership skills, and everyone is following him down the road to ruin."
- Solo work is important: one company has a no-talk Thursday. I find that I need chunks of time to simply get things done. Give yourself the time.
- Extroverts should listen to introverts in the face of high stress situations.
- Free trait theory teaches us that we can act out of character in the service of work we consider important; this is how Cain, an introvert, gets the energy to speak to a room of thousands.
- Introverts and extroverts like each other.  Their opposites work well together. Phew. Robin, there is a reason we work.
- Group work is best done in smaller groups pairs or trios that are structured.
- Carve out restorative niches. As an introvert, give yourself the time to rest as you live in an extroverted world. As an extrovert, be sensitive to the needs of others.  I also now see that Friday night dinner party at the end of a tough week as my restorative niche.
- With introverted children, let them be themselves and assure them that there is nothing wrong with them for being introverted.

Introverts are never called superficial; when you break past the cover of an introvert, you find tremendous depth. Quiet is an introverted book. Once you get past the cover you will find tremendous depth and a lot to learn.  If you don't have time for the book, Cain's Ted Talk is a great place to start.
3602447
Disclosure: When I signed up to read Quiet, it was because I wanted to learn more about the differences between extroversion and introversion so I could be a better business owner and work with my employees better. I also wanted to be able to write characters in books better. It is with these to things in mind that I read the book and I write this review.

Quiet is an interesting book in the topic, but it is nothing so new as to be completely stunning to me. Anyone that has taken a psychology or personality test knows that there are introverts and extroverts. We practically grew up with the terms through our youth. At least here in western cultures. And that is precisely the point that Cain makes with Quiet.

The first 2/3 of the book is really about what introversion is, how people that are considered introverted and quiet are different from extroverts fundamentally and in personality, and what makes us introverted genetically and culturally. Cain does a wonderful job of laying all three of these points throughout the third, then expounding upon them for the second third of the book. You'd think this could drag on and get boring, but it really doesn't. Instead of writing this in a dry academic tone, Cain writes in a popular science sort of way, but her own quiet confidence shows through. I suppose in parts one could find it boring, as I did not find it necessary to constantly run to pick up the book every second I had free. It is a smooth read, thoughtfully laid out, and with a LOT of well researched information.

The last 1/3 of the book was more of a self-help feeling. I can say I wasn't impressed by this part, but that does not mean it wasn't bad, nor was it helpful. It just seemed like common sense to me. When you read it, and surely you will, you'll see that Cain goes through one chapter about how to comes to terms with and work with the introversion in adult people. These are focused around interpersonal relationships as well as in the work place, so it's quite useful for those that are not as intuitive to both sides of the introversion-extroversion argument. Another chapter is devoted entirely to the raising of and working with introverted children. I found this section much more helpful as Cain brought up the school system, and I just happen to be an educator. She points out that children are just miniature adults, and should be treated and worked with accordingly, perhaps with a lot more care for the most sensitive of the bunch.

Despite of me feeling that this stuff was obvious, I also realise it is very necessary to state many of these things. It is a very good book for people that would like to know more about the whys and hows of introversion, how to step into or out of your own introversion or extroversion to the other side, and how to work with people that are introverted or extroverted. Not only does this book has a lot of applicable use to it as a psychology book, it really celebrates those quiet, reflective introverted moments of everyone's life.

Disclaimer: I was given this book to review by WaterBook Multnomah Press. I am under no obligation to give a good review, just an honest one.
1897483
As I began to read this book, I was again reminded of an observation by Dale Carnegie: You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.

James Farrell and Mitchell Warner realize that, from time to time, people need to ask themselves questions such as these: What can I do to be more helpful to others? To help those at work as well as family members, friends, and neighbors? With all due respect to the importance of answering these questions, what is even more important is what you then do when interacting with others. This is what Maya Angelou has had in mind when observing, Ive learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

In this book, Farrell and Warner introduce a way of seeing others, a way of interacting with others, to which Angelou refers. They it an outward mindset. More specifically, This book is about the difference between a self-focused inward mindset and an others-inclusive outward mindset. It will help you become more outward in your work, your leadership, and your life. It will guide you in building more innovative and collaborative teams and teams. And it will help you see why you like many of the people you do and what you can do to become more like them.

A year or two ago, Susan Cain published a bestselling book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Cant Stop Talking, in which she explained why people who are introverted really do have an outward mindset and reveal it if and when in what they consider to be an appropriate situation. They tend have a more highly-developed emotional intelligence. They nourish relationships in which there is mutual respect and trust. They are intense listeners. The most effective business leaders all have an outward mindset, demonstrating what Robert Greenleaf characterizes as servant leadership.

In the interest of fairness, it should be noted that extroverts can also develop an outward mindset and still have all of the defining characteristics that Cain celebrates. If you have ever had an encounter with Herb Kelleher, you know exactly what I mean. The former chairman and CEO of Southwest Airlines can bound into a room filled with hundreds of strangers and make each of those he meets feel like they are the most interesting person he has ever met.

Developing the outward mindset requires major changes in how you view the world and, especially, what you value. Probably during a process that began in childhood, most people develop an inward mindset. Changing that mindset is very difficult and often painful. By what process? Farrell and Warner recommend a pattern of transformation, SAM, an acronym for these initiatives:

o See, [begin italics] really see [end italics], the needs, objectives, and challenges of others
o Adjust efforts to be more helpful to others
o Measure and hold yourself accountable for the impact of your efforts

In this book, James Farrell and Mitchell Warner shares wealth of information, insights, and counsel that they and the Abridger Institute have accumulated over several decades. They reach out to others who read this book, helping them to change lives and transform organizations.
1346962
I'm an introvert so found this book fascinating reading for two key reasons:

1. It helped me better understand why I am the way I am. Further, Susan Cain also provides analysis of extroverts as well to provide a balanced approach. I loved the fact Susan didn't just rely on her own study of individuals rather used many other studies from various perspectives to support her findings. This included studies of the brain, which I particularly enjoyed.

2. It's practical so I was able to immediately use some of the findings as I met with people and also in relating to my immediate family.

A reader could easily be put off by the book's size and in-depth research and analysis. However, Susan uses a very personable style that is both informative and engaging. She writes how I imagine she talks and every sentence is very much worth paying attention to. Each chapter typically contains individual stories, drawing the reader in to better absorb the content and research.

I'm encouraging my friends in business, in particular, to read it. But it's applicability extends far beyond business. Every teacher should read it, if there isn't anything similar. The discussion about classroom dynamics and that between parent and child were enlightening and very relevant. I have an extrovert son, so learnt more about what may drive him and I hope, better ways to interact with him.

Highly recommended reading.
4397278
Did  you know that at least one-third of all the people in the world are introverts?  They prefer listening to speaking, reading to going out to parties, staying in as opposed to hitting the grad parties, weddings.  They tend to dislike self promotion and favor working on their own over team brainstorming sessions.  They are labeled quiet, shy, unsure of themselves, non sociable.... and in many cases that is not true at all.

Did you know the introverts of our society actually approach challenges not as rushed as an extrovert, not speaking as loudly or as quickly as an extrovert, and that is ok?  It is ok to be more of a listener and a processor than the up front idea person.  After all introverts contribute much to our society... it was an introvert who invented the personal computer.  Rosa Parks was an introvert.

I absolutely adored this book.  Why?  Because it absolutely spoke to me and it was about me.  That person who would rather work quietly at their desk prodding along without a team of people to assist?  That is me.  That person who walks into a party and sees no one she knows so finds a quiet corner to hang out in?  Me.  The person who listens more than speaks during staff meetings?  Me again.

Yet I have friends who are shocked when they hear me refer to myself as an introvert.  I am not overcome by stage fright, I can speak to large groups of people, I can lead a book discussion group, a committee, and be an advocate for a cause.  What my friends need to remember is that the day they met me, I did not run up squeal and hug them.  :D  It takes time for me to warm into a group where I feel comfortable to speak up with my ideas and opinions.  I don't have the "bull in a china shop" mentality where I can charge on in and look around later.... I need to know my surroundings and get a feel for the environment and the people around me before I can move forward.

What I took away from Quiet is that the way I need to energize is by being alone, and not always wanting to take on a group of people to complete a task I can do on my own, is normal introvert behavior.  And better yet, it is ok to ask this way.  That was kind of life changing for me to hear that.  I do like to work alone.  I do get excited when I come home and I have the house to myself.  I am sure my lifestyle of kids gone and hubby working all the time does not help me control this desire.  I am alone a lot.  And I really like it.

We know society leans in favor towards the extrovert.  We see them on TV and they are the actors and actresses we are drawn to by the power they have to capture our attention.  They are the people around us who flourish in business discussions, can rule the conversation in a group, and can be found at most social engagements.  Yes what Susan Cain lets us know is not to overlook the person who is more quiet, more reflective than verbal... after all they are the makings of J K Rowling, Steve Jobs, Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein, and Steven King.

As book lovers, I think many of us may be considered introverts.

Kathe Mazur does a fine job of narrating this one.  Highly recommended to anyone who has ever been told they need to speak up more, has been called quiet or shy and knows that there is more to them than meets the eye.
3990670
I first saw/heard Susan Cain speak about introversion on TED.com, [...]. Her 19 minute speech has truly changed my life. Hearing Susan speak about introversion made me realize that there is NOTHING wrong with me NOT wanting to go out on Friday nights or for choosing to sit in all weekend long.. (literally ALL weekend) just be alone. This book really opened my eyes to introversion. I started doing research about introversion and I found out that there are SO many others out there like me and this has helped me to finally feel GOOD about myself. I bought this ebook before she was even done speaking! I stopped reading the book I was reading and started this book. I was actually at work and I decided to take my lunch early and I just stared reading. Not only has Susan's insight opened my mind, it has also helped me to be more outgoing. I realize now that my introversion is not a crutch, but a gift! I make a conscience decisions to be outgoing and speak up more than I ever did before. I can't recommend this book enough!
3481573
I almost ordered this book when it first came out, but figured that it might be similar to other books on being an introvert that I've read in the past.  Last week when I had lunch with a friend, she recommended it, and I'm so glad I bought it!

It's not a self-help book (which is what I was expecting), but is rather a book that looks at the research done on introverts, while also offering some tips and advice.  Thoroughly researched, it explains the multi-faceted life of introverts, and covers some of the latest work on the brain.  I found it very compelling to read, and couldn't put it down for three days until I had finished it.

As I mention in my review title, it was full of "ah ha!" moments for me.  Even though I know I'm an extreme introvert after first taking the MBTI test about fifteen years ago, I still learned many new things, including that I might also be a sensitive/reactive introvert.

If you want more self-help tips, I also really recommend&nbsp;<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/The-Introvert-Advantage-How-to-Thrive-in-an-Extrovert-World/dp/0761123695/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">The Introvert Advantage: How to Thrive in an Extrovert World</a>; that book gave me some very useful strategies for making the most of my introvert personality in a world dominated by extroverts.

This is a compelling, interesting read that will  help you better understand your own personality or the personalities of your loved ones.
2073704
Just watch Susan's TED talk and you'll basically get the point of the book. A lot of the comments about working in groups are not necessarily about introversion.
449392
I read this book at the recommendation of an introverted friend. Within the author discusses the causes of introversion and healthy ways to compromise with extroverts.
3348418
There are two points in this book that Laney affirms again and again: that there is nothing wrong with being introverted, and that introverts draw their energy from quiet, peaceful situations and need to give themselves adequate time to recharge.  These points are convincingly, if too repetitiously, made, but little time is spent advising introverts on how to play to their strengths.  The subtitle of the book is "How to Thrive in an Extrovert World."  "How to Cope in an Extroverted World" would be more apt.

The most useful section of this book offers advice on how to personalize your social interactions to the temperament of the audience.  Introverts and extroverts need different kinds of praise, admonition, and conversation styles, and Laney explains how to adapt to family, friends, and co-workers on either end of the spectrum.  In fact, this book might be more educational to extroverts than introverts, since introverted behavior is so often misinterpreted.

With its overwhelming message of self-acceptance, this book has a subtext that some could find discouraging: you will never be an extrovert, so stop trying so hard.  Give yourself lots of breaks from highly stimulating environments, take precautions to protect yourself from situations that make you uncomfortable, and take baby steps to "fake it" as an extrovert if you wish.  The advice is aimed at the pure introvert - one who not only prefers peace and quiet, but thinks slowly, talks slowly, acts slowly, has low energy, and goes into sensory overload at the drop of a hat.  For readers of mixed temperament, this characterization won't resonate.

This book hasn't convinced me that the advantages of being an introvert outweigh the disadvantages.  But it does dispense better advice for life than most books in the self-help genre, so all in all it's a decent read.
3361447
This is an important book, and a very well written one. Susan Cain is as eloquent, empathetic, wise, and engaging an author as she is a speaker (based on her appearance at TED, and some RSA 'Big Think' videos, which impressed, and were what made my wife read and then recommend this book to me).

I've always flipped between an introvert and an extrovert in my personality type test results, the handful of times that I've given an Enneagram or, more pertinently, a Myers Briggs test - where I come out as 51-49% of one or the other. As a reflective/ introspective person, I've often found myself wondering which one I was more of! This book might've settled the question - I may well be an 'ambivert'!

The book affords insights for individuals, as for friends, colleagues, spouses, partners, teachers, parents, and all the many roles in which we interact with each other - especially if you, or your counterparts in these relationships are introverts. I say insights and not advice (which is present as well) because this reads like - is - a scholarly study, or a book of behavioral science, in the tradition of Desmond Morris, rather than a self help book in the tradition of Dale Carnegie (who it gently reprimands for creating the 'extrovert ideal'.)

That it comes across as readable, even enjoyable, and not dry or preachy is testament to Ms. Cain's excellent writing. A must read, and one of the best books I've read this year (and one I feel compelled to blog about in a more personal voice some time when it's not 5 am and I don't have a full day of work ahead)