Kid prodigies. Gifted and Skilled Programs. Perfect 2400s within the SAT. Occasionally it feels like the world is certainly conspiring to help make the rest folks feel inadequate. Those kids tapped as having special skills will continue to accomplish great things, as the rest of us have little chance of recognizing our dreams. Best?

In Ungifted, cognitive psychologist Scott Barry Kaufman-who was relegated to unique education as a child-sets away to show that the way we interpret traditional metrics of about Ungifted: Cleverness Redefined intelligence is misguided. Kaufman explores the most recent research in genetics and neuroscience, as well as evolutionary, developmental, interpersonal, positive, and cognitive psychology, to challenge the traditional intelligence about the child years predictors of adult success. He reveals that there are many paths to greatness, and argues for a more holistic approach to achievement that considers each youthful person’s personal goals, specific psychology, and developmental trajectory. In so doing, he boosts our understanding for the intelligence and diverse talents of prodigies, savants, and late bloomers, as well as people that have dyslexia, autism, schizophrenia, and ADHD.

Combining original research, anecdotes, and a singular compassion, Ungifted proves that anyone-even those without readily observable gifts at any single instant in time-can become great.