Comments on: Smile: The Astonishing Powers of a Simple Act (Kindle Single) (TED Books)

By: Your Huckleberry

Your Huckleberry — Sat, 15 Dec 2012 03:40:58 +0000

Great mix of research and personal stories. I work as a Guest Services Director and I also happen to adore Ted Talks. Naturally, I was drawn to this book. Something I always tell new team members is “if all else fails, smile.” I purchased this book with the idea that it would make a great gift for my team to hammer home the importance of smiling. Its a short read and what I like most about it was that it uses a fair mix of scientific research and personal stories. It does not simply focus on science, however. It also uses examples from several religions and cultures to show that no matter who you are or what your background is, smiling is an important way of life. In fact, one chapter mentioned Darwin, Christianity, Buddhism, and Muslims, all within a paragraph or two. I enjoyed the diversity of examples.I do not think I will end up purchasing this for my entire team, however. Instead, I will probably highlight the main points in a discussion. A better book for a book study or book club, in my opinion, is Be Our Guest, by Disney Institute because it gives better application. “Smile” is a great little thought experiement though, and I enjoyed the read.

By: Debahi "Deb"

Debahi "Deb" — Sat, 15 Dec 2012 03:31:10 +0000

A book to Smile about This is a very enjoyable book and I began smiling almost as soon as I began reading it. I loved the author's description of his travels in the bus in Zambia and how his smile enabled him to connect with people. The book is a comfortable mix of personal anecdote and scientific and historical information, interspersed with pictures of smiling people. I learned some new things (which is always pleasurable) and was reminded of other things I knew but had forgotten. I would love to find a print copy of the book to offer to friends who do not have Kindles.

By: Michael Nichols

Michael Nichols — Sat, 15 Dec 2012 03:07:36 +0000

A small act with a big impact In this wonderful book, Ron Gutman describes the big impact that the small act of smiling can have.The captivating text weaves citations to scientific research from serious scholars around the world – from contemporary studies (from top institutions like Stanford University) to historic observations (dating back to Charles Darwin) – together with the author’s personal narrative and contributions from people who sent the author their own anecdotes about smiling.The author’s journey of discovery about the positive impact smiling made in his life stands next to many surprising benefits of smiling that have been revealed through studies from leading universities and in academic publications from countries everywhere.It’s a compelling and joyful read, perfect both for those who are serious enough who want to know the content comes from real science, and for those who just want to learn more about something they already know can transform life for the better.This is a great gift, both for yourself and for others, and a great reminder that the simplest things in life often make the greatest differences.