David and Goliath

By Malcolm Gladwell

David and Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell looks at the differences between what can be qualified as an advantage and a disadvantage. It takes a view on the classic story of David and Goliath and expands on other situations in the world where this happens. I enjoyed reading this since it provided me with a whole new perspective on what might seem like a huge advantage when in reality is a burden and vice versa. Something terrible at first sight can cause an advantage later in life, such as a child learning the value of money early in life because they grew up in poverty. This book changed my view on how some traits can be helpful that I never thought could be before. Something like dyslexia is not something that most people would consider helpful, but it can also push people to learn a skill like listening more.

Specious- superficially plausible, but actually wrong. This is the word that I think best describes this book. It represents how something that seems correct is the opposite, not unlike how the book talks about how a trait can look good on the outside but can actually be harmful, and the opposite as well. This book shows why you should never judge a book by its cover, and how experts in a profession can come from anywhere.

Overall, I think that David and Goliath aims toward people looking for ways to turn disadvantages into assets. It is a great way to see underdog stories in real life and how people can turn "weakness" into strength and prove that the person seen not best suited for the job can actually be great.