"Playful Intelligence" by Anthony T. DeBenedet is a captivating exploration of the transformative power of play. As a parent, I found DeBenedet's insights to be both eye-opening and inspiring. His blend of scientific research and real-life stories beautifully illustrates how playfulness can enhance creativity, resilience, and connection in both children and adults.

DeBenedet's book not only highlights the importance of play but also offers practical tips for incorporating more playfulness into daily life. I appreciated his emphasis on the role of play in promoting emotional well-being and fostering strong relationships.

Overall, "Playful Intelligence" is a must-read for anyone looking to infuse more joy and creativity into their lives. It's a book that will leave you feeling inspired and empowered to embrace playfulness as a pathway to personal growth and fulfillment. Highly recommended for parents, educators, and anyone seeking to live a more vibrant and playful life.

It looks like this book is being re-released as it originally came out on May 1, 2018. There are no notes on this being a new edition so, if you've read this before, I don't think anything has changed.
The author dives into the idea that people with rich imaginations, who are able to re-frame their stressors, are able to go far in life. He talks about Bill B whose job was in danger of being cut every day for ten years. We look at Sheila whose life is one catastrophe after another starting from her birth. These two are just the start of example after example of people who used some form of imagination to make it through hard times.
DeBenedet argues that empathy is a part of imagination and that exercising that muscle can help us to connect with others. That putting ourselves in their shoes can help make us better at our jobs and at life. He also argues that having imagination can help us avoid "anchoring," when our thoughts are so rooted in what we've seen in the past that we can't come up for solutions what is in front of us now.
For a book that relies on what seem to be true stories, the writing style reminded me of nothing so much as The Five Dysfunctions of a Team.

Three stars
This book came out May 1, 2018
ARC kindly provided by Santa Monica Press and NetGalley
Opinions are my own

This book is a delightful journey into the transformative power of playfulness for both kids and adults. With a perfect blend of science-backed insights and charming stroies, DeBenedet convinces readers that embracing a playful mindset is the secret sauce to unlocking creativity, reducing stress, and fostering meaningful connections. This book is a fun reminder that a little play can go a long way in making life lighter and more fulfilling.

PLAYFUL INTELLIGENCE by Anthony T. DeBenedet captivated me with its intelligent and thoughtful approach to what it is to live with play at the heart of what we see, do, and how we relate to one another. While the language and prose dragged at times, feeling more academic than the uplifting, storytelling mode of other parts, overall, I deeply enjoyed what DeBenedet shared about ways to enjoy play in all aspects of our lives. I received a copy of this book and these opinions are my own, unbiased thoughts.

Amidst the countless books focusing on children's play, only a handful touch on the intriguing subject of adult play—a topic that personally captivates me and remains largely unexplored. While this book is well-written, it carries an intellectual tone that might distance some readers seeking a more accessible message: that play is not just an option but a vital component of good health and happiness.

Throughout the chapters, the author skillfully presents success stories and examples of ordinary individuals who thrived as CEOs or philanthropists, leaving the rest of us wondering how these insights apply to our own lives. Fortunately, these chapters conclude with a summary catered to 'the rest of us,' acknowledging that not everyone plans to change the world.

I appreciate the author's effort to explore play from various angles, delving into themes of wonder and spontaneity. However, at times, the book feels a bit too serious for its subject matter (just have a glance at the title!). It lacks a touch of warmth and the very playfulness it seeks to promote. Despite this, the book succeeds in shedding light on the importance of play and offers valuable insights for readers willing to delve into its thought-provoking content.

A book with good ways to reframe. I learned a lot about perspective and how perspective impacts happiness. My biggest problem is that I had trouble getting through parts & my attention wasn’t always held. Overall, Playful Intelligence made me think about the way I interact with the world & my emotions.

A helpful, fun, and important book about how to add more joy to adulting through playfulness. Left me feeling lighter in spirit and more optimistic about life.