Book Review - Everyday Greatness

Everyday Greatness by Stephen Covey is really a compilation of short stories, essays and book excerpts by various authors, organized by what Covey calls principles of Everyday Greatness. Each story and quote has at one time appeared in Reader's Digest magazine. Covey ties the stories together and offers commentary and additional insight on what makes each story an example of everyday greatness.

Although over 400 pages in length this book is easy to read. Each outlined principle is accompanied by three examples of individuals who demonstrated that principle in their lives. In reading through these stories I learned more about the background of several famous people - background of which I was previously unaware. I was also introduced to many people who have - other than among a few who keep their names alive - have passed into obscurity but who truly epitomized many of the principles of Everyday Greatness. I plan on following up on the stories of several of these people to learn more about their lives.

Additionally, at the end of chapter there are several pages of short quotes and paragraphs which instill the essence of the principle being studied. This is one of my favorite aspects of this book. Although some of the quotes are a stretch to apply to the given principle most are incredibly accurate and excellent quotes. Many are also funny, which to me was a bonus. For example, when highlighting the principle of quality, this quote by Claude McDonald was listed, " If hard work is the key to success, most people would rather pick the lock."

Also included in each chapter is a page called Reflections with several questions for the reader to ponder. I also very much enjoyed these questions since they made me pause to think about how I can better apply these principles to my life. This is an excellent resource and would also be a great jumping-off point for discussion of the book with a good friend or loved one, although they were written mainly to use for a time of introspection since they ask very pointed questions about your own values and principles.

My overall opinion of this book is very favorable. I enjoy Reader's Digest so it follows that I would enjoy a compilation of works that have previously appeared in that magazine. My main critique as a Christian reading a book published by a Christian publisher is that I would have enjoyed more discussion as to why these principles should be important to me as a Christian and Biblical references which would tie them to my personal walk as a Christian. I understand that Reader's Digest is secular and the stories in this compilation do not represent a religious undertaking, but because of the publisher I perhaps expected at least some reference to Christianity. - Most of these principles - integrity, respect, charity, responsibility, simplicity to name a few - are directly applicable to me in my Christian walk. But when you remove Christ from the equation I am left to wonder why they would be important. And that of course is what each of us must answer for him/herself, and is not the purpose of this book.