Book Review of GENERATIONS: THE REAL DIFFERENCE . . . by Jean M. Twenge

GENERATIONS: THE REAL DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GEN Z, MILLENNIALS, GEN X, BOOMERS, and SILENTS - - and WHAT THEY MEAN FOR AMERICA’S FUTURE by Jean M. Twenge, PhD (Atria Books, April 2023) Hardcover, 560 pages. ISBN # 9781982181611 

Synopsis on the Goodreads website . . . . .

A groundbreaking, revelatory portrait of the six generations that currently live in the United States and how they connect, conflict, and compete with one another—from the acclaimed author of Generation Me and iGen

The United States is currently home to six generations: the Silents, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, Generation Z, and Generation Alpha. They have had vastly different life experiences and thus, one assumes, they must have vastly diverging beliefs and behaviors--but what are those differences, what causes them, and how deep do they actually run? 

Professor of psychology Jean Twenge does a deep dive into a treasure trove of long-running, government-funded surveys and databases to answer these questions. Are we truly defined by major historical events, such as the Great Depression for the Silents and September 11 for Millennials? Or, as Twenge argues, is it the rapid evolution of technology that differentiates the generations?

With her clear-eyed and insightful voice, Twenge explores what the Silents and Boomers want out of the rest of their lives; how Gen X-ers are facing middle age; the ideals of Millennials as parents and in the workplace; and how Gen Z has been changed by COVID-19, among other fascinating topics. Surprising, engaging, and informative, Generations will forever change the way you view your parents, peers, coworkers, and children, no matter what your generation.

My Four-Star Review on the Goodreads website . . . . .

     Despite what many readers may think of Twenge's conclusions about each generation, especially her predictions for the future, there's one thing that most can agree on: this is a well-researched, well-documented, work by an author with professional credentials whose opinions deserve to be considered. 

     If I was heavily involved in politics, business, or advertising rather than a retired Boomer - - I would place a copy of GENERATIONS on my bookshelf of valuable reference tools. Also, I would consider all her conclusions with "a grain of salt" - - not to believe them as absolute and gospel but worthy of further thought and perhaps, application.

     Data heavy, with plenty of statistics and graphs to back up her conclusions, this was fascinating reading. The final chapter on the future was captivating. I'm also hoping that some of her predictions do not come to be realized.