Heidi

The Element is a fascinating book that is excellently narrated by the author, Ken Robinson.

The beginning part that talked about education was particularly interesting to me as I am studying to be a teacher. Robinson also discussed facets of finding your Element, like finding your "Tribe" that were very interesting. The book isn't really a self-help guide that necessarily leads you to find your own Element, but it helps you understand the concept around finding your Element and provides encouragement and hope that it's possible. Frankly, I'm glad the book didn't purport to be a one size fits all guide to finding your passion. That is a unique journey for every individual and can't be prescribed; that's point, that it's different for everyone. Robinson introduced ideas about creativity and finding your passion and gave examples of what has worked for some individuals.

Robinson describes a number of people who have found their "Element" or passion in life. Most of the examples focused on famous people like John Lennon and Paul McCartney, Arianna Huffington, Bob Dylan, etc. I found the occasional stories about "normal" people refreshing as well as the discussion on the dedicated amateurs - people who find their Element in something other than their profession. I realize that it's easy to find examples of individuals finding the Element when they become famous, because everyone knows about them. It felt a little one sided as a result, almost as if you have to be famous to find your element. I don't think that was Robinson's intention, and I realize it's hard to find individual stories from non-famous people, because you don't know about them.

Overall I loved the book and found it very thought provoking. It was a wonderful read/listen and I would highly recommend it.