"A persuasive wake-up call.āā People A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER From the award-winning journalist Paul Tough, a provocative and profound examination of childhood success and characterāan insightful study that reveals the power to transform young peopleās lives. Why do some children succeed while others fail? The story we usually tell about childhood and success is the one about intelligence: success comes to those who score highest on tests, from preschool admissions to SATs. In How Children Succeed , Paul Tough argues that success has more to do with characterāskills like perseverance, curiosity, optimism, and self-control. In this groundbreaking study, Tough introduces us to key researchers and educators, who, for the first time, are using the tools of science to peel back the mysteries of character. Through their storiesāand the stories of the children they are trying to helpāTough reveals how character has the power to transform young peopleās lives. This provocative and profoundly hopeful book will not only inspire and engage readersāit will also change our understanding of childhood itself.