It should go without saying that a nation's resources of intellectual talent are among the most precious it will ever have. The study of the lives of gifted children initiated by Professor Lewis M. Terman, began in 1921, and has become the longest running longitudinal study in the field of psychology. Published over 5 volumes, the study is of historical significance to the field of educational science as well as psychology, for providing an insight into the nature of intelligence and achievement, but also challenging stereotypes of the personality of the gifted. This first volume covers the introduction and goals of the study, selection and statistical composition of the group, health and physical condition, family heritage, interests and play activities, and many more valuable pieces of data relating to the characteristics and personality of the children surveyed. - Summary by leon harvey