After reading this book, I think it comes down to, "We don't REALLY know why some people end up surviving and others don't." The traits that become valuable are from deep within and looking at folks prior to a tragic event, you'd never be able to guess who will be the survivor. I tried to put this book down about halfway through as I found it a bit boring, but then I decided to skim the last half just to read about the survival stories, but not the author's analysis of them. It was alright, just not overly inspiring, I guess. I was sent this by a friend, so now I'll send it on as well.