“Everyday Genius” and “Rethinking Intelligence” are actually two different, highly prominent books that dismantle the myth of fixed, genetic intellect. The concepts frequently intersect because they both challenge traditional IQ metrics, arguing that intelligence is a dynamic, learnable capacity rather than an innate trait.
The primary concepts and focus areas of these two books include:
1. Everyday Genius: Hacks to Boost Your Memory, Focus, Problem-Solving, and Much More
Written by six-time USA Memory Champion Nelson Dellis (with a foreword by learning expert Barbara Oakley), this book focuses on cognitive performance and actionable mental skills.
The Core Argument: True genius is built, not born. The extraordinary mental feats associated with geniuses are actually trained, step-by-step techniques that anyone can learn.
Brain Capital over IQ: Dellis focuses on “brain capital”—the cognitive autonomy to focus deeply, learn quickly, and think clearly in an era overwhelmed by digital information and AI.
Practical Toolkit: The book functions as a manual for practical life hacks. It covers mnemonic frameworks to remember names instantly, mental math formulas, speed-reading, sharp decision-making, and even niche skills like lucid dreaming.
The Backstory: Dellis was inspired to master his mind after watching his grandmother suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, showing that brain training is an act of proactive health.
More details can be found on the official publisher page at Abrams Books.
2. Rethinking Intelligence: A Radical New Understanding of Our Human Potential
Written by genetics expert and professor Dr. Rina Bliss, this book focuses on epigenetics and the sociology of human capability. The Mental Skills for Becoming an Everyday Genius
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