The Art of Learning: A Journey in the Pursuit of Excellence

Josh Waitzkin

Free Press,  May 2008

Josh Waitzkin knows the road to excellence. Catapulted into a media whirlwind as a child, the subject of the book and movie Searching for Bobby Fischer, he has mastered both the rigorous mental game of chess -- winning his first National Championship at the age of nine -- and the strenuous physical challenge of martial arts, becoming a master of Tai Chi Chuan and earning the title of World Champion. His phenomenal success is due to the learning techniques he developed to bring both his mind and body to peak performance. In a riveting narrative that takes readers on his journey of discovery, conquering the high-pressure challenges of intensely competitive chess face-offs and heart-stopping martial arts wars, he reveals the inner workings of his methods, from systematically triggering intuitive breakthroughs to mastering the art of performance psychology. The Art of Learning is essential reading for those who want to reach the highest levels of achievement.

hardcover | ISBN: 9780743277457 | Publication Date: May 2008

Reviews:
"This is a really superb book, one I wish someone had given to me long ago . . . It will take a ferocious interruption to make you set this book down."
--Robert Pirsig, author of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

"Waitzkin's in-depth look into the mental side of his success in both chess and martial arts is an inspiring and absorbing read. I strongly recommend it for anyone who lives in a world of competition, whether it's sports or business or anywhere else."
--Mark Messier, 16-time National Hockey League All-Star

"Josh Waitzkin's The Art of Learning is a testimonial to the timeless principle of 'do less and accomplish more.' Highly recommended for those who want to understand the power of consciousness."
--Deepak Chopra

"Waitzkin brings laser clarity and penetrating insights into the delicate mind, body, spirit interactions fundamental to extraordinary achievement in most any area of life."
--Jim Loehr, Chairman and CEO, The Human Performance Institute, and coauthor, The Power of Full Engagement

"We all remember the portrayal of Josh Waitzkin in Searching for Bobby Fischer. He was a very impressive child who continues to impress with The Art of Learning. Through a unique set of experiences, Waitzkin has formed an original and outstanding perspective. From chess to Tai Chi, he provides tools that allow all of us to improve ourselves every day."
--Cal Ripken, Jr., 2007 Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee

"Waitzkin's engaging voice and his openness . . . make him a welcome teacher."
--Publishers Weekly

"A vibrant and engaging look at the love of learning and the pursuit of excellence."
--Booklist

"The Art of Learning succeeds on every level, by combining a truly compelling autobiography with profound philosophical and psychological insights, all wrapped in a practical how-to framework. This is a must-read for anyone wishing to achieve that rare combination of success and fulfillment."
--Paul Blease, SVP, Director Team Development & Consulting, Citigroup Smith Barney