Sarah Tucker’s Edward de Bono: Love Laterally paints a vivid and layered portrait of Edward de Bono, the man who coined and championed the concept of lateral thinking. Tucker delves into de Bono’s life with warmth, wit, and curiosity, offering a narrative that oscillates between his intellectual brilliance and personal quirks. From his early days in Malta to his global influence as a thinker and educator, the book captures the essence of a man who reshaped the way we approach creativity and problem-solving.

What struck me most was Tucker’s ability to weave anecdotes that showcased de Bono’s humor and humanity. One instance that stood out was when, as a young student, de Bono circumvented bullying by inventing a secret passageway at his boarding school, demonstrating his knack for innovative problem-solving even as a child. These moments are sprinkled throughout the book, making de Bono relatable, even to readers who might not be familiar with his academic legacy.

Tucker doesn’t shy away from exploring de Bono’s professional controversies. The criticism he faced for his theories lacking empirical support is discussed with nuance. Yet, the narrative also highlights the testimonies of countless professionals who credited de Bono’s methods for their success. The juxtaposition of detractors calling his work “pseudoscience” against admirers who saw him as transformative makes for a fascinating read. It’s clear Tucker admires her subject, but she’s also unafraid to question his more outlandish ideas, like his proposal to become the “King of Australia,” which borders on self-parody.

What I loved most were the glimpses into his creative philosophy. De Bono’s belief that education should encourage collaboration rather than competition resonated with me. His Six Thinking Hats methodology, which encourages diverse perspectives in problem-solving, exemplifies this ethos. Yet, Tucker’s coverage of de Bono’s struggles with institutional recognition and his complicated relationships with academia left me pondering the systemic rigidity that stifles innovation.

Edward de Bono: Love Laterally is a compelling read for anyone intrigued by creativity, psychology, or education. Tucker’s conversational tone and her ability to balance respect for de Bono with critical observation make this biography accessible and engaging. I’d recommend it to readers who appreciate stories of unconventional thinkers or those seeking inspiration to approach problems differently.

Pages: 256 | ISBN : 1913641465