About the Book
"The definitive book on the rise of “toxic achievement culture” overtaking our kids' and parents' lives, and a new framework for fighting back" (amazon.com).
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We do have a limited number of book copies available for community members to borrow for the duration of the Big Read. Please email Dana Pierce at dpierce@fmschools.org if you are interested in borrowing. If you would like to purchase a copy of the book, please use the links below.
What do FM Zen's Members have to say about the book?
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"When I first started reading Never Enough, I thought that it could be a case study of FM. It isn’t, but the communities profiled in the book are very similar to our own culture of high achievement. I also thought, “I know that kid!” several times as the book interviewed students with great aspirations for college and career who have struggled, especially with their mental health. While the problems outlined in the book are real, there are also concrete solutions to showing students that they matter – in our school and in our community – because of who they are, not just what they achieve."- Denise M. (French Teacher)
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“As a parent of a 6th and 3rd grader, I felt the pressure to sign up for all of the activities so they didn’t ‘get behind’ their peers in school, sports, or the arts. I felt that if I didn’t have them in these that it would be too late and they would be missing out on something. I think I knew deep down that my kids would be OK if I allowed them free time to use their imagination and just be themselves, but Never Enough convinced me that I need to protect my children from trying to do too much or overextending themselves. ‘Giving permission to rest communicates to children that they are worthy of protection’(136). This is how I can show them I care about and love them.”-Heather S. (Parent and Homebound Teacher)
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"As a teacher at the high school and a parent of three who graduated from FM and are currently in college, I only wish I had read this book when they were younger when we felt the pressure. The book describes many communities much like ours so it resonates with so many of us. I don’t know anyone that has read the book that doesn’t think FM could be included in her research. The author uses two fundamental concepts to explain THE WHY: biology and economics. She asserts that 'raising or maintaining a child’s status is a basic form of reproductive success' (29). As the costs of higher education continue to rise, scholarships are critical to families and the recipient must 'stand out from their peers'. Standing out comes in the form of academics, sports, and music and this is where we find the pressure the most. I hope the book can cause change for everyone's sake." - Karen H. (Science Teacher and Parent)
"Early in the book, Jennifer Breheny Wallace encourages the reader to take care of themselves so that we can be there for our children. After spending time looking inward and examining my parenting angle, I was freed and took away new perspectives and strategies. Instead of bombarding my children with questions, I practice listening and being with them, unconditionally. There is no need for them to achieve or talk about their day’s achievement, rather time is spent with them and letting them know they matter." -Angela G. (Science Educator and Parent)
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