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