Living with Intensity by Susan Daniels and Michael M. Piechowski

“Living with Intensity” by Susan Daniels and Michael M. Piechowski is a 2008 publication that delves into the emotional and psychological experiences of gifted individuals, focusing on their heightened sensitivities and the concept of overexcitabilities (OEs).

The book’s structure is as repetitive as a broken record, with the term “overexcitabilities” (OEs) making an appearance so frequently that it could serve as a drinking game—though I wouldn’t recommend it for the sake of your liver. The writing oscillates between stating the painfully obvious and offering underwhelming tidbits, leaving readers grasping for substance.

Centered on Dabrowski’s Theory of Positive Disintegration, the book attempts to shed light on the intensities experienced by gifted individuals. However, the relentless emphasis on OEs becomes a monotonous mantra, overshadowing any meaningful exploration of the subject matter.

Attempting to extract memorable insights from this book is akin to trying to catch smoke with your bare hands—futile and frustrating. The content either reiterates well-known observations or presents information so tepid that it fails to leave any lasting impression.

The narrative flow is disrupted by the incessant repetition of key terms, making the reading experience akin to trudging through molasses. The lack of engaging content further hampers any sense of cohesiveness, resulting in a disjointed and tiresome journey.

While ostensibly aimed at individuals seeking to understand the emotional complexities of giftedness, the book’s redundant and superficial treatment of the topic is likely to alienate even the most patient readers. Those looking for depth and originality would be better served elsewhere.

In summary, “Living with Intensity” offers an experience that is anything but intense. Its repetitive jargon and lackluster content render it a forgettable addition to the literature on giftedness. Save your time and energy for a work that truly understands the complexities it seeks to explore.