Naomi B. (tripleguess) reviewed on 2/12/2011 + 48 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 6

With a box full of books to read and only so much spare time, I've implemented a new rule of thumb; generally, if the book doesn't hook me by the first few chapters, I stop reading it and try the next one. I am a fast reader, so I don't feel I am asking too much of a book to keep me interested for twenty minutes.

This title kept me engaged for about one third of the book. After that I started skimming, and when I had to force myself to keep going I said "Hey, what's up with that, I might as well be reading something fun."

I appreciate that this book confirmed what I've already known for years: I am different. Sometimes very different. There is a 23-question "sensitivity test" on pages xxi-xxii; I answered 22 of them positively (in other words, "Yes, this bothers me").

However, after the first three or four chapters, I felt that the book was repeating itself, saying the same things but merely changing the settings. "HSPs are sensitive as children. HSPs are sensitive as adolescents. HSPs are especially affected by puberty. HSPs are especially affected by trauma. HSPs are especially affected by relationships."

Okay, I get it; we're affected more than most. I have enough imagination that I don't need things spelled out for every aspect of life.

Being a conservative Christian, I don't find the definite New Age slant of the book especially edifying, especially since it is not overtly acknowledged.

It has some interesting ideas, but as a fairly well-adapted sensitive person I don't find that I need the extensive advice and "make sure you feel good about yourself" handpatting.

My summary: not bad, but not riveting either.

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