Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World

David Epstein

May 2019 · Sold by Penguin

About this ebook

The #1 New York Times bestseller that has all America talking: as seen/heard on CNN's Fareed Zakaria GPS, Morning Joe, CBS This Morning, The Bill Simmons Podcast, Rich Roll, and more.

“The most important business—and parenting—book of the year.” —Forbes

“Urgent and important. . . an essential read for bosses, parents, coaches, and anyone who cares about improving performance.” —Daniel H. Pink  

Shortlisted for the Financial Times/McKinsey Business Book of the Year Award

Plenty of experts argue that anyone who wants to develop a skill, play an instrument, or lead their field should start early, focus intensely, and rack up as many hours of deliberate practice as possible. If you dabble or delay, you’ll never catch up to the people who got a head start. But a closer look at research on the world’s top performers, from professional athletes to Nobel laureates, shows that early specialization is the exception, not the rule.    

David Epstein examined the world’s most successful athletes, artists, musicians, inventors, forecasters and scientists. He discovered that in most fields—especially those that are complex and unpredictable—generalists, not specialists, are primed to excel. Generalists often find their path late, and they juggle many interests rather than focusing on one. They’re also more creative, more agile, and able to make connections their more specialized peers can’t see.

Provocative, rigorous, and engrossing, Range makes a compelling case for actively cultivating inefficiency. Failing a test is the best way to learn. Frequent quitters end up with the most fulfilling careers. The most impactful inventors cross domains rather than deepening their knowledge in a single area. As experts silo themselves further while computers master more of the skills once reserved for highly focused humans, people who think broadly and embrace diverse experiences and perspectives will increasingly thrive.

Ratings and reviews

I'm not a just a reader, I'm a believer 😁: I'm glad I took the opportunity to read this book as part of a book club I had previously quit. Specifically, I thought the book wasn't directly related to my studies/profession, but I'm ecstatic to say I was proved wrong as it has added a unique perspective backed by meaningful evidence. This is a fascinating book that more worried parents, nervous students and fearful "late developers" should read. Undoubtedly, we would all do better with a little bit more tolerance for our own journeys and the unique twists and turns that life takes; and completely removing the vice of 'personal worth via comparison' that pervades or communities.

absolutely phenomenal. a wonderful set of stories, data, and tactics underlying a philosophy that could have an enormous impact on the world if we chose to apply it. a pleasure to read, and inspiring as well.

Range takes a unique look at developing yourself broadly instead of being hyper focused. Epstein does a phenomenal job explaining both sides of the argument and supports his theories with research and case studies that make the less popular view have some weight. A great book for anyone trying to broaden their perspective.

About the author

David Epstein is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Sports Gene. He has master's degrees in environmental science and journalism and has worked as an investigative reporter for ProPublica and a senior writer for Sports Illustrated. He lives in Washington, DC.