36 pages • 1 hour read
The Gift of Fear: Survival Signals That Protect Us from Violence
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Book Brief
352
Book • Nonfiction
1990s
1997
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Gift of Fear: Survival Signals That Protect Us from Violence by Gavin De Becker is a nonfiction guide that teaches readers how to trust their intuition to avoid violence. The book, structured in 15 chapters, includes real-life examples and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and acting on survival signals. Topics include assessing threats, avoiding dangerous individuals, workplace violence, domestic violence, extortion, and protecting children. The book discusses murder, sexual abuse, sexual assault, stalking, extortion, exploitation, domestic violence, and other sensitive topics.
Informative
Unnerving
Suspenseful
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
58,294 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Gift of Fear by Gavin De Becker receives praise for its insightful exploration of intuition and personal safety, emphasizing the importance of trusting one's instincts. Readers appreciate its practical advice and real-life anecdotes. Critics, however, mention the repetition of concepts and a sometimes fear-inducing tone. Overall, it’s a compelling read for those interested in security and self-awareness.
Who Should Read The Gift of Fear?
Readers who would enjoy The Gift of Fear by Gavin De Becker are likely drawn to true crime, psychology, and personal safety. Fans of Malcolm Gladwell's Blink or John Douglas' Mindhunter will appreciate De Becker's insights into human intuition and survival. This book resonates with those keen on understanding and leveraging instinctual responses to threats.
58,294 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Frances Katz
Frances Katz
De Becker's mother, an acclaimed performer who struggled with addiction and displayed abusive behavior, influencing de Becker's understanding of violence and behavioral prediction.
Hal de Becker
Hal de Becker
De Becker's father, an acclaimed film and theatre performer, who was involved in a shooting incident with Frances Katz that marked a pivotal moment in de Becker's life.
Rosemary Clooney
Rosemary Clooney
A singer and actress who played a significant role in de Becker's life when he moved in with her family, marking the beginning of his career in protecting public figures.
Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor
An actress who became one of de Becker's early clients during his initial work in the protection of public figures.
352
Book • Nonfiction
1990s
1997
Adult
18+ years
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