Book Review: "Sensitive" by Jenn Granneman and Andre Sólo

I have to admit I only started this book because of the fact it was published by Penguin and therefore, I thought it worthy of my time. I know that sounds prejudiced but I do make it my business to read a lot of Penguin Nonfiction books. However, I did not think this one would be too deep. Reading the title Sensitive made me think it was a critique of highly sensitive people, those easily offended or people who couldn't take a joke. I was not only wrong, but the book also called me out for being wrong. Instead, it is a text about what it means to be sensitive, what it really means and how highly sensitive people are actually not only really perceptive but they are far more common that we first may have thought. In fact, I discovered that I might be a sensitive person (yeah, I know). So, let's take a look...

This book is is an empowering exploration of what it means to be a sensitive person in a world that often undervalues traits like empathy, deep thinking, and emotional awareness. The text challenges the misconception that sensitivity is a weakness, instead presenting it as a powerful and valuable trait that can lead to success, creativity, and meaningful relationships. Through a mix of personal stories, scientific research, and practical advice, Sensitive offers validation and guidance for those who have often felt overwhelmed by their emotions or misunderstood by society. There's a part that I liked which references the autobiography of Bruce Springsteen, looking at although he is now a representative of masculine American culture, he was once a shy and sensitive child.

Granneman and Sólo back up their arguments with compelling research. They explain how highly sensitive individuals (HSPs) have brains that are wired to process information more deeply, leading to heightened emotional responses and greater awareness of their surroundings. They also discuss the evolutionary advantages of sensitivity, such as improved decision-making, heightened intuition, and strong social bonds. This scientific grounding gives credibility to their claims and reassures readers that sensitivity is not a flaw, but a legitimate neurological trait. As a teacher, I do have to say that pointless acronyms give me a shiver - they are used everywhere in education but, I do enjoy the idea that sensitivity gives people advantages in society. I am yet to see the fruits of mine though.

A central theme of the book is that sensitivity comes with unique strengths. Sensitive individuals tend to be more empathetic, creative, and perceptive, allowing them to excel in areas like the arts, leadership, caregiving, and problem-solving. The book highlights real-life examples of successful people: writers, scientists, and business leaders, who have leveraged their sensitivity to make a difference in their fields. This emphasis on strengths helps reframe sensitivity as an asset rather than a limitation. I enjoy this analysis because it puts the trait into a real-world perspective even though that perspective may seem a bit out there for my thinking.

A standout aspect of the book is its discussion on sensitivity in professional settings. Many sensitive individuals struggle in fast-paced, high-pressure work environments that reward aggressive decision-making. Sensitive offers reassurance that people with deep emotional intelligence, strong intuition, and careful attention to detail can thrive in leadership roles, creative careers, and fields that require empathy and insight. It also provides tips for advocating for one’s needs at work, such as finding quieter workspaces, taking breaks to recharge, and seeking out roles that align with one’s strengths. I think this is the place the book begins to wobble for me. I mean 'quieter workspaces' sounds like a strange privilege only a few would have, even those working in an office can't be afford that entirely. This part of the book becomes a pipe dream rather than reality. In reality, there are a lot of small privileges we want at work but cannot have.

One of the most powerful aspects of the text is its mission to challenge societal attitudes toward sensitivity. Many cultures equate emotional resilience with toughness and dismiss sensitivity as weakness. The authors push back against this idea, arguing that emotional depth, kindness, and thoughtfulness are strengths that the world needs more of. This cultural critique feels refreshing and necessary, offering a new perspective on what it means to be a strong and capable person. I like this analysis though it does not take into account that balance between animal and empathetic that we have needed to survive. Well, it touches on it but I think it overstates the fact that sensitivity is judged by many cultures as being bad. It gets a little repetitive.

All in all, Granneman and Solo have written a book that is both a source of comfort and a practical tool for sensitive individuals who may have felt out of place in a world that prioritises resilience over emotional depth. Their message is clear: sensitivity is not something to be "fixed" or suppressed, it is a valuable and powerful way of experiencing life. Whether you’re looking for strategies to manage overwhelm, seeking validation for your emotions, or simply wanting to understand sensitivity better, Sensitive is a worthwhile and affirming read. Though it has its difficulties, there are definitely more positives to reading this book.