This enlightening nonfiction book is “dedicated to all the students and people who think differently.” In this case, the book particularly focuses on visual thinkers, who are set opposite to verbal thinkers. By retaining its focus, the author seeks to encourage like-minded young people — and does so admirably. Although the book title may seem a little misleading, as a book reviewer married to a graphic designer and artist (who has complained about the difficulties of a verbal-based school system and workplace), this is a dichotomy I’ve often considered. Note that there is little connection here to learning styles, although those familiar with the concept will notice some overlap here. There are enlightening and encouraging illustrations throughout as the author — who was diagnosed as autistic as a child, yet went on to earn her Ph.D. in animal science — describes, explains, and suggests how beneficial visual thinkers are to the world and its progress.

There are also specific suggestions of how to approach life’s challenges, in a leading or complementary role, such as when it describes famous, successful pairs of different thinkers, the Curies, Jobs and Wozniak, or Lennon and McCartney. The author might have included myself and my artistic spouse, too. Visual thinking can be an enormous strength, especially once students escape the lecture hall, and this book is a wonderful guide for young visual thinkers to reach for a successful and satisfying life and career ahead.