Talking to Strangers is one of the most important books of the year. In a time where mass communication, often leads to conflict, it is essential to understand why we often misinterpret another’s behaviour, their words and intentions leading us to judge their character and alter our own actions to respond unjustly.
Malcolm Gladwell is always effective in illustrating his point. In this book he vividly uses five infamous examples to do so: a case of espionage during the cold war, Bernie Madoff’s Ponzi scheme, the conviction of Amanda Knox and the Suicide of Sylvia Path. He also bookends his thesis discussing how heartbreakingly needless the unjust conviction of Sandra Bland.
I would want my high school students to read this book. It easily supports curriculums in Religious Studies, Ethics, Social Studies and Social Sciences and would inspire in-depth discussion in the classroom.
Talking to Strangerscomes out September 10, 2019.
Love Gladwell! I was very excited when Little Brown and Co. sent me an advanced copy of Talking to Strangers. I’ll let you know what I think in a day or two! In the meanwhile enjoy this from CBC:
Ink And Spine 