Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan CainMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Examining the role of the Introvert in a world that celebrates outgoing and noisy personalities as the ideal, Cain touches on many case studies (both scientific and sociological) which raises the case for the quieter, more reflective types. Some interesting sections where it's brought back to evolutionary and animal characteristics - why both personality traits have their strengths and weaknesses from a purely survivalistic standpoint, which can then be linked back to the modern world.
I've always been a bit of a quiet soul personally but many of the psychological studies seem to treat extrovert and introvert almost as binaries. I like loud music and trying new things, yet also am happy in solitude and don't particularly enjoy small talk - what about that Mr Science Man? There doesn't really seem to be much on those who don't factor in on either extreme.
Worth reading though , especially if you're concerned about your child's quietness, with a particularly great, inspiring conclusion from Cain - basically don't try to be someone you're not and embrace your strengths.
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