Rating: 
Summary: Finally! Confirmation and Explanation!!!
Review: How wonderful it felt to finally have someone explain the 'whys' of how introverts are different.. and IT'S OKAY! For years I've had friends and family say, "You need to get out more." I'm very happy just spending time alone or with my husband. I have no trouble interacting with others. Now when they say this to me, I can give them scientific reasons for:
· How I'm different (genetically, chemically, and in neurotransmitter pathways)
· Why I don't like to get out as often as they do
· Why I sometimes 'lose' a thought in the middle of a conversation
· Why I can't tolerate the heat very well (it's explained!)
· Why I don't like being interrupted (be it while speaking, working, reading, etc.) and it takes me a second to come around after I've been focused on something
These aren't NEGATIVE traits.. they're just DIFFERENT. Introverts, according to this book, make up only 25% of the population. We just aren't like most people. If you're an introvert.. READ THIS BOOK! : )
Rating:
Summary: Quiet Reflection on a Noisy Planet
Review: "Introverts are like a rechargeable battery. They need to stop expending energy and rest in order to recharge. Extroverts are like solar panels that need the sun to recharge. Extroverts need to be out and about to refuel." ~Marti Olsen LaneyImagine feeling alone in a crowd, preferring a quiet corner to the limelight and feeling overwhelmed by phones, parties and office meetings. Do people often think you are shy, aloof or antisocial? If you are an introvert, you are going to completely relate to a variety of comments that are like fireworks going off in recognition of truth. Introverts can hide their talents and only show them in certain situations. Through reading this wonderful and often humorous book, you will be assured that nothing is wrong with you. In fact, there is a connection between Introversion and Intelligence. What is fascinating is how Marti Olsen Laney explains how introverts create energy in the opposite way extroverts do. I'm often drained of all energy after being with people for extended periods of time, but being with a book can set me on fire with creativity and energy. I can handle small groups and connecting with familiar faces can actually energize me, but after three hours, I want to find a more peaceful setting. This book helped me understand why I have deeper thoughts when I'm by myself than in a group setting. People seem to not know who I am in the "real-world," but online, I have found a place to show my true self. This is apparently because introverts are more comfortable with writing than speaking in public. Are You an Introvert? Are you detail oriented yet details in public spaces overwhelm you?
Do you prefer small parties with intimate friends?
Do you avoid crowds?
Would you rather be reading books in bed in your pajamas?
Do you get tired when you are around people, but energized when alone?
Do you feel guilty about having to "limit" your social experiences so you can survive? Does your mind sometimes go blank in group situations?
Do you dislike being interrupted in the middle of a project? The author has divided her comments into three main sections. First you find out if you really are an introvert, then you discover how to navigate the extrovert world. The last section explains how you can create the perfect life by "extroverting." This is just another way of saying that an introvert can also shine their light out into the world. After reading the list of famous introverts, you will see similarities in their personalities. The author also gives a list of movies to add to your "must-see" list. Marti also spends time seeking the in-depth answers to brain chemistry. You will also find out if you are a Right or Left-Brained Introvert. Then onward to "dating." The "Relationships: Face the Music and Dance" chapter shows how personality types collide, how to meet the challenge and then how to appreciate the differences. Even by reading the chapter on Parenting, I started to understand extroverts in a new way. I find extroverts to be fascinating, yet at times they overwhelm my cozy-sit-in-the-corner cat nature with their tiger tactics. Extroverts just seem so aggressive at times. The world can look a little threatening and a party can be overwhelming. I love the author's ideas about how to be a sea anemone at a party. I've survived many parties with this tactic. If you are worried about what to say at a party, Marti gives plenty of solutions in the form of openers, sustainers, transitions and closers. Then she dives into the hazards from 9 to 5. This chapter will also shed some light on your personal relationships. Ok, by the time I read "Pack Your Survival Kit" this book had been more than helpful. These tips alone will encourage you to create a more peaceful planet. "The Introvert Advantage" is an encouraging book for anyone who has felt the pain of being an introvert in an extrovert world. Marti Olsen Laney also shows how it can be equally painful and unfulfilling to remain in a state of seclusion. Through reading thoughtful segments on a daily basis, you can finally start to find balance in your daily existence. This is a must-read book for all Introverts and the people who love them. The author has a comfortable writing style and you will feel "at home" and find yourself "completely" relating to her experiences. It is rare to find a book where you just fall in love with an author's personality. She is cute, witty and intellectual too. Finally someone out there understands! The author has really done her research. Highly recommended. Add this book to your Top Ten must-read books this year. After all, it will help you understand 25% of the population. ~The Rebecca Review.com, A Right-brained "mostly" Introvert (INFP) and proud of it.
Rating: 
Summary: How to Understand being an Introvert in an Extroverted World
Review: +++++
Answer true or false to these ten statements as they apply to you:
1. In general, I like to listen more than I like to talk.
2. I usually need to think before I respond.
3. If two people have just had a verbal fight, I feel tension in the air.
4. When I need to rest, I prefer to spend time alone
or with one or two close people.
5. I form lasting relationships.
6. I don't like to interrupt others; I don't like to be interrupted.
7. I feel drained after social situations, even when I enjoy myself.
8. I can become grouchy if I'm around people or activities too long.
9. I don't think of casual acquaintances as friends.
10. Other people may surprise me by thinking I am smarter than I think I am.
If you answered true to seven or more of these statements, then you are strongly introverted meaning you relate to life through your ideas, impressions, hopes, and values. As a result, this book may be of use to you. Also, if you answered true to one, two, or three of these statements, then you are more extroverted meaning you judge yourself in light of the values and reality of others. Thus, you may still need this book to understand the introverts in your life. (If you answered true to four, five, or six of these statements, you are like many people in that you are both introverted and extroverted. You may want to use this book to understand your introverted half.)
This book, by Dr. Marti Laney, has three parts comprising ten chapters:
PART ONE:
1. Explains what introverts are. For example, "Introverts are like a rechargeable battery. They need to stop expending energy and rest in order to recharge."
2. Discusses what introverts are not. For example, "It's not about disliking people or even being shy."
3. Details the biological and physiological basis of introversion and extroversion.
PART TWO:
4. Information and techniques for introverts when dealing with relationships including intimate relationships.
5. Information and techniques for introverts when dealing with parenting.
6. Practical tips and information for introverts when socializing.
7. Tips and information for introverts in the work world.
PART THREE:
8. Presents concepts that can help "you cope with your introversion."
9. Presents ways of how to "nurture" your introvert nature.
10. How to become proficient at "extroverting." The basis for this chapter is that "there are things introverts have to do that call for some extrovert-like skills."
There are five things I really like about this book:
First, it is very readable with no technical psychobabble.
Next, each chapter ends with a brief summary or what the author calls "Points to Ponder."
Third, there is a "test" that has thirty statements. Its purpose is to determine if you are more introverted or more extroverted. The ten statements above were derived from this larger thirty-statement test.
Fourthly, there are "blue boxes" (that is, brief sections of interesting information printed on a blue background) throughout the book. Two of my favorites are the one that lists the names of famous people who are more introverted (for example, Clint Eastwood) and the other lists fictional characters that are more introverted (for example, the super sleuth Hercule Poirot).
Lastly, this book has a well-referenced suggested reading list for those that want more detailed information.
Part one, in my opinion, is the best section of this book. I found the chapter on biological and physiological differences between introversion and extroversion very interesting.
Part two's chapter on introversion in the employment world was good. I, however, had problems with chapters four, five, and six which dealt with relationships, parenting, and socializing respectively. It seemed to me that presenting this information directly after part one was abrupt. As well, these topics were presented out of sequence. You have to socialize first so as acquire a relationship and this may lead to marriage and children. The information presented in these chapters was useful but some of the practical tips presented I found to be unintentionally comical. Overall, for chapters four, five, and six, I felt that the author was attempting to turn a more introverted person into a more extroverted person.
Part three presents information that dealt with coping with introversion. Some readers may be offended by this especially when they realize that the word "cope" means to deal with problems or troubles. Thus, the author is sending a clear message to the reader that introversion is a problem to be overcome and is really not an advantage. However, if you can ignore this, the information presented is generally useful.
Finally, after reading this book, you may desire to read up on the different subtypes of introversion. (Subtypes of introversion are not presented in this book.) I have listed the subtype and then beside it a good book on that subtype:
1. SOLITARY and CREATIVE: "Solitude" by A. Storr.
2. SHY: "Shyness, What it is, What to do about it" by P. Zimbardo.
3. HIGHLY SENSITIVE: "The Highly Sensitive Person" by E. Aron.
4. WORRIED: "The Positive Power of Thinking" by J. Norem.
5. LONELY: "Just Your Type" by P. Tieger.
6. LONER (by preference): "Party of One" by A. Rufus.
In conclusion, this is a good book from which both introverts and extroverts can learn!!
(Published 2002; dedication; acknowledgements; preface; introduction; 10 chapters; illustrations; main narrative 310 pages; bibliography; index.)
+++++
Rating:
Summary: Very Enlightening Read!
Review: A must read book for all students in psychology as well as sociology. Those already in the profession or vocation should read as well. Perhaps some treated symptoms are not needing treatment at all, but rather, an explanation to a patient as to how being an introvert can seem as a problem when it is not understood by the person who has these qualities. This book gives a very readable understanding of the "introvert" as well as the "extrovert". The differences in "energy" that one uses and how you "charge" yourself up is right on target. Those who are in the understanding of the spiritual nature of our being will understand this "energy" concept. Couples should also read this as it will give great enlightenment to their relationship if the two are opposites with one being an introvert and the other an extrovert. Could save many an arguement and let down. Parents should also read this to learn what "type" of child they have to better understand the "why" of how they act. Teachers and educators should read this book so as to understand how a student composes information of learning and that different approches are NEEDED based on these differences. Being an introvert, the likes of word problems, algebra, and geometry were "concepts" I could never grasp because I think in pictures. How does a letter of the alphabet equal a number (x = 2 or 2 = x) when letters and numbers are different things like an apple or orange?! There are only 26 letters and there are an infinite number of numbers. What letter do you use once you used them all up? And why was it always "xyz" and "abc"? I never saw "mno" or "stu". HaHaHa. Sounds silly now, but it wasn't so silly then. I was a top student excelling in many areas, but failed miserably in this area. I put in countless hours staying after school trying to get help from my teacher. I got a "D" just because I tried so hard to understand that which I could not. No one knew why and they called it a "mental block". Now I know why. I was not "mental", I just could not connect with the abstraction of this type of math problems. But back then, I believed I had had some type of "mental" problem, that I was not "right" like everyone else because I did not understand why I just could not grasp math like everyone else. Well, I guess I wasn't "right" like everyone else.....I was "right" as me! This book is a must in many areas that can benefit, especially the introverts. The book tells you how to cope, adjust, accept, and stand your ground as being an introvert. Its great being different and its even greater when you understand that its just another way of being "normal".
Rating:
Summary: So its not me after all, I'm different but "normal"!
Review: A must read book for all students in psychology as well as sociology. Those already in the profession or vocation should read as well. Perhaps some treated symptoms are not needing treatment at all, but rather, an explanation to a patient as to how being an introvert can seem as a problem when it is not understood by the person who has these qualities. This book gives a very readable understanding of the "introvert" as well as the "extrovert". The differences in "energy" that one uses and how you "charge" yourself up is right on target. Those who are in the understanding of the spiritual nature of our being will understand this "energy" concept. Couples should also read this as it will give great enlightenment to their relationship if the two are opposites with one being an introvert and the other an extrovert. Could save many an arguement and let down. Parents should also read this to learn what "type" of child they have to better understand the "why" of how they act. Teachers and educators should read this book so as to understand how a student composes information of learning and that different approches are NEEDED based on these differences. Being an introvert, the likes of word problems, algebra, and geometry were "concepts" I could never grasp because I think in pictures. How does a letter of the alphabet equal a number (x = 2 or 2 = x) when letters and numbers are different things like an apple or orange?! There are only 26 letters and there are an infinite number of numbers. What letter do you use once you used them all up? And why was it always "xyz" and "abc"? I never saw "mno" or "stu". HaHaHa. Sounds silly now, but it wasn't so silly then. I was a top student excelling in many areas, but failed miserably in this area. I put in countless hours staying after school trying to get help from my teacher. I got a "D" just because I tried so hard to understand that which I could not. No one knew why and they called it a "mental block". Now I know why. I was not "mental", I just could not connect with the abstraction of this type of math problems. But back then, I believed I had had some type of "mental" problem, that I was not "right" like everyone else because I did not understand why I just could not grasp math like everyone else. Well, I guess I wasn't "right" like everyone else.....I was "right" as me! This book is a must in many areas that can benefit, especially the introverts. The book tells you how to cope, adjust, accept, and stand your ground as being an introvert. Its great being different and its even greater when you understand that its just another way of being "normal".
Rating: 
Summary: Made Introverts Look Weak
Review: As an introvert, I picked up this book hoping it would provide me with insight as to why I felt out of place in the world. Instead I got a sense that I was weaker, less confident and fearful of the "extroverted" world. I realize the book has to be general to reach more people, but even after taking the quiz and scoring in the "very introverted" range, I couldn't help thinking that I should be more fearful and less confident than I feel! I agree with the internal processing and neurochemistry information, but I can't accept some of the stereotypical personality traits the author presents of intorverts and extroverts.
Rating:
Summary: A book of self-discovery
Review: Did you ever wonder why you aren't as comfortable in some social situations as other people are, or crave being in the spotlight? Do you feel you're different from everyone around you? If you don't like being in the spotlight and feel energized when you're alone, you may be an introvert. In the book, "The Introvert Advantage," by Marti Olsen Laney, Psy.D., you can take a test to see if you are introverted. After answering those questions, I discovered that I was halfway between being introverted and extroverted. This book will teach you the meaning of being introverted, and how to make the most of those abilities. I used to think that being introverted meant that you were shy. I now know that shyness isn't who you are, but a fear of what others think of you. Introversion is who you are -- it's about being able to channel your inner energy. This book covers it all - from relationships to parenting an introverted child. MyParenTime.com recommends the book, "The Introvert Advantage" -- besides being informative, it is filled with support and discovery. Both introverts and extroverts will find this book very interesting.
Rating:
Summary: Do you "zone out" if too much is going on?
Review: Do you often feel like a tortoise surrounded by hares? The good news is, you may be an introvert. The better news is that by celebrating the inner strengths and uniqueness of being an "innie," Marti Laney shows introverts, and the extroverts who love them, how to work with, instead of against their temperament to enjoy a well-lived life.
Rating:
Summary: Give you a deeper understanding of being an introvert
Review: First of all I think each introvert process a different degree of introversion. I consider myself 65-70% introverted--depending on the situation. With this degree of being introverted, I found this book help me reach a deeper understanding of myself. For example, of why I tend to get deeply involved in a subject or get zoned out when I concentrate on something. From that understanding I learn how to manage myself better in relations to others. Setting several useful tips aside, I believe the understanding alone that I gained from this book give me a deeper self actualization, which in the process helps me see my own strengths and weaknesses. Seeing one's own strengths and weaknesses can certainly enable one to become fuller and lead a richer life. I very much enjoy reading this book. In a way I felt like reading about myself even though I don't agree 100% with all the characteristics of an introvert as described in the book. All in all I still recommend it as a very good read, eps. for all of us introverts.
Rating: 
Summary: Please don't understand me too quickly
Review: I agree with those reviewers who complained that the author too often confuses introversion with shyness or even various types of social phobia.
I am an introvert among introverts and repeatedly score as far into introversion as one can get on the MBTI and other scales, so I know whereof I speak.
Contrary to what Marti Olsen Laney says, we introverts don't want extroverts to ask us for our opinions. In most situations, we prefer to listen and analyze, but when we have something to say, we will pontificate on it ad nauseum, which is why most academics, scientists and researchers are introverts.
We also don't prefer to socialize in small groups. We actually like being in large groups because then we are not forced to speak when we'd rather observe and listen. (We can get happily lost in a crowd.)
And God save us from those well-meaning souls who feel they are doing us introverts a favor by "drawing [us] out."
We prefer formality and value our privacy. We'll thank you to respect that.
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