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Top positive review
8 people found this helpful
4.0 out of 5 starsA useful addition to the collection of memoirs by acquired savants
Bytreekilleron January 12, 2017
Struck by Genius is a useful addition to the growing collection of memoirs written by acquired savants-- and I think is primarily of interest to those who have a particular interest in this topic. Some reviewers complain about the inclusion of detailed mathematical discussion of Jason Padgett's drawings. However, other reviewers wish there were actually more math, and lament the many pages devoted to descriptions of Jason's personal challenges in dealing with his accident and its consequences. Others (and I count myself in this camp) are put off by the persistent self-congratulatory remarks throughout the book, and I find myself wondering how these survived the influence of a co-writer, agent, and editor. Nevertheless, what the majority of readers seem to agree upon, is that the brain is an exquisitely complex and mysterious organ, and that Jason Padgett's account of his experience leads us to contemplate the remarkable possibilities as we progress in unlocking the brain's secrets.
Top critical review
4 people found this helpful
3.0 out of 5 starsDisappointing
ByBook Loveron May 18, 2014
I love books about the workings of the human mind, and the true story of a party boy who becomes a mathematical genius after surviving a mugging seemed like it was right up my alley. Unfortunately his newly-discovered genius did not extend to writing, and even with a co-author, the writing was labored and repetitive. What would have been a fascinating article in the New Yorker was a dull slog through the self-absorbed ramblings of a Rain Man wanna-be. Do yourself a favor and skip this in favor of Born On A Blue Day: Inside the Extraordinary Mind of an Autistic Savant by Daniel Tammet, a much more interesting memoir on a similar subject.
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Bytreekilleron January 12, 2017
Struck by Genius is a useful addition to the growing collection of memoirs written by acquired savants-- and I think is primarily of interest to those who have a particular interest in this topic. Some reviewers complain about the inclusion of detailed mathematical discussion of Jason Padgett's drawings. However, other reviewers wish there were actually more math, and lament the many pages devoted to descriptions of Jason's personal challenges in dealing with his accident and its consequences. Others (and I count myself in this camp) are put off by the persistent self-congratulatory remarks throughout the book, and I find myself wondering how these survived the influence of a co-writer, agent, and editor. Nevertheless, what the majority of readers seem to agree upon, is that the brain is an exquisitely complex and mysterious organ, and that Jason Padgett's account of his experience leads us to contemplate the remarkable possibilities as we progress in unlocking the brain's secrets.
8 people found this helpful
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Byzamoleyon August 6, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. As soon as I read the first two chapters I knew I would be sad by the time I'd finish reading it. What I mean is I developed a mini addiction to the story and the information (that was either somewhat familiar to me, like fractals, synesthesia and savant syndrome or completely new to me - rigid surfaces, no perfect circles exist in nature or capturing sound in drawings!!!! We already have Cymatics and the sounds of the universe are being explored today.) I absorbed it like a sponge. (I foresee more research-binging inspired by this story.)
I generally read very fast, so I tried to "ration" my reading to prolong the experience over a few days. And I could not wait to get home after work to continue reading. It is truly stimulating in so many ways (emotionally, intellectually, even visually, though I am not a synnie.) I could personally relate to some experiences described by the "halfway" savant (periodic self-imposed isolation to binge on information and ponder upon what truly is beautiful, simple and captivating; above average empathy - a blessing and a curse...) I could visualize (as best as my mind's eye allowed) Jason Padgett's visions: the first sunrise after several years, his hand, leaves, the rain drops in the puddle. I even cried a bit... a few times. As I tried to envision what I was reading, many times I thought that this is definitely going to be "A Beautiful Mind 2" or something along those lines... I love quoting beautifully written passages and this book certainly is drenched in quotes worth remembering and referencing.
I remain hopeful that soon enough the "savant-inducing headgear" hits the market, rendering all preceding technology virtually obsolete. I guess, I'll hold off on G.glass and iWatch.
Although I do not know them perosnally, nevertheless, Congratulations to Jason, Elena and their family with the new baby due very-very soon :)).
I generally read very fast, so I tried to "ration" my reading to prolong the experience over a few days. And I could not wait to get home after work to continue reading. It is truly stimulating in so many ways (emotionally, intellectually, even visually, though I am not a synnie.) I could personally relate to some experiences described by the "halfway" savant (periodic self-imposed isolation to binge on information and ponder upon what truly is beautiful, simple and captivating; above average empathy - a blessing and a curse...) I could visualize (as best as my mind's eye allowed) Jason Padgett's visions: the first sunrise after several years, his hand, leaves, the rain drops in the puddle. I even cried a bit... a few times. As I tried to envision what I was reading, many times I thought that this is definitely going to be "A Beautiful Mind 2" or something along those lines... I love quoting beautifully written passages and this book certainly is drenched in quotes worth remembering and referencing.
I remain hopeful that soon enough the "savant-inducing headgear" hits the market, rendering all preceding technology virtually obsolete. I guess, I'll hold off on G.glass and iWatch.
Although I do not know them perosnally, nevertheless, Congratulations to Jason, Elena and their family with the new baby due very-very soon :)).
ByDenice D. Gigouxon July 11, 2016
Title shared with me by a new acquaintance. Found the book to be so interestingly. My worldview says that God gave us many layers of the onion to peel when it comes to discovering His creation. Jason has peeled off several layers in an area few of us understand. I love these glimpses we are privileged to experience or view from afar.
ByBibliomaniacon June 28, 2014
Exquisitely written, both the "before" and "after" portions of Jason Padgett's story boggle the mind and give rise to the wondrous potential that exists in all of us. A must read for anyone who is at all curious about human potential, the capacity to accept change, and for those who appreciate the wonder in a blade of grass or patterns created in the water rushing out of a bathroom faucet.
ByJudyon May 15, 2014
I could not put the book down. Jason underwent traumatic experiences with little help for a long time. What a strong, determined guy. Putting his early life in context helped the reader to understand what a dramatic change has taken place. Maureen's writing is excellent and perfectly chronicles Jason's ordeal. When I saw his interview on Fox, I had to read his story. So glad I did. Becoming a "mathematical genius" is an understatement. The other problems and gifts are truly amazing.
ByRilefoson August 29, 2017
Jason Padgett has an amazing story, which isn't over yet. I think we will yet hear additional new and amazing insights from the unusual way his brain functions.
ByArthur C Howardon May 4, 2014
I saw Jason Padgett on TV and immediately ordered this book. It is an amazing story about the wonders of the brain and his journey of discovery. It even taught me something about the nature of mathematics in the real world. I recommend this book to everyone!
Bymirlen101on September 13, 2014
Interesting story about an interesting man . Hits on relationships between various subjects that are related to fractals , geometry , math , synesthesia , genius , brain injuries and brain abnormalities .How these things are interconnected .
It's mostly about how Jason was transformed through circumstances beyond his control . Going from an extreme extrovert who sought adrenaline driven thrills to an ultra-introvert who just wanted to be isolated from the outside world . Eventually coming back from his isolation via his new found love for math , art, geometry and fractals .To be considered one of the best known cases of head injury induced savantism . This story has circled the world . Been mentioned in newspapers , television , on the internet and seminars . Probably in the top ten cases of brain injury or brain abnormality savantism .
I imagine this book would be of special interest to those interested in savantism and or synesthesia ( people who have crossed senses , such as seeing colors when hearing music , or seeing letters and numbers as colored objects ) . Also those that like stories of the underdog who goes onto to great things .Silver linings ?
It's mostly about how Jason was transformed through circumstances beyond his control . Going from an extreme extrovert who sought adrenaline driven thrills to an ultra-introvert who just wanted to be isolated from the outside world . Eventually coming back from his isolation via his new found love for math , art, geometry and fractals .To be considered one of the best known cases of head injury induced savantism . This story has circled the world . Been mentioned in newspapers , television , on the internet and seminars . Probably in the top ten cases of brain injury or brain abnormality savantism .
I imagine this book would be of special interest to those interested in savantism and or synesthesia ( people who have crossed senses , such as seeing colors when hearing music , or seeing letters and numbers as colored objects ) . Also those that like stories of the underdog who goes onto to great things .Silver linings ?
ByMC2010on May 11, 2014
Keeps reader interested and gives hope to us who have endured a TBI that future generations of TBI victims may not have to suffer as we did. Those who have had a TBI will find pieces of this story hit close to home. Thank you Jason for sharing your incredible story & giving back to the TBI community.
4.0 out of 5 starsBut if this book is saying take a look at this individual who has made a remarkable recovery through his astounding achievements
ByAmazon Customeron January 18, 2016
Interesting book although Jason has recovered from a very serious Head injury and this book very inspiring about his new life, it should be noted that it was not the head injury that makes Jason a prodigy of his remarkable talent in mathematics. It is without doubt he had this undiscovered talent before the injury. But he never had the to opportunity to utilise it until he began his therapy during or after his recovery. Let be known if Jason discovered this talent before his injuries who knows what what he would have accomplished. Dispite the myth of Isaac Newton getting hit in the head with an apple Eurika he now understands gravity. Head injuries can cause serious impairments especially when they are as traumatic as this book is stating. If the author of this book is saying or is thinking ha go out and have a Head injury a wow you'll become a genius this is very misleading and very very dangerous. But if this book is saying take a look at this individual who has made a remarkable recovery through his astounding achievements great. But believed me those who knows about head injuries and about those who've recovered from them will know it is not a very good thing to have a Traumatic Brain Injury.
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