Fantastic Failures: True Stories of People Who Changed the World by Falling Down First

In this time of overnight internet celebrities, some as young as early teens, young people don’t realize how long and hard many well-known artists fought for fame and distinction. When young people hear names like J. K. Rowling, Albert Einstein, Vincent van Gogh, Conan O’Brien, Abraham Lincoln, and Ang Lee, they may think these people have fame and celebrity in common, but what youngsters don’t realize is that they also have failure in common. This book gathers the stories of over 50 famous people who have faced difficulties on the road to success. Their failures made them better, stronger and more empathetic citizens.

Author Luke Reynolds has done his homework and even shares his sources at the end of each chapter—an excellent example for students. The writing is clear and concise with a sense of fun. Chapters include interesting sidebars with snapshots of others in the same field and their struggles. Failure, as one will come to recognize after reading the book, can often free creativity and allow a person to become her or his true self.