Back in high school, I learned about the book and movie Who Moved My Cheese? Immediately it became a book and concept that I often referred to when I felt stuck in life or needed a new perspective.
When I had children, I bought both the original Who Moved My Cheese? And the Who Moved My Cheese? for Teens – which is a more digestible version for young adults and teens. We keep them on the bookshelf in the living room and pull them out as needed.
Gift Your Children | Who Moved My Cheese? For Kids
In fact, a few months back, I had my youngest son read through the teen version. I won’t lie, he skipped through it and then read a cliff notes version online. I mean, hey, that’s fine, too if that’s how you grasp the concept.
Since then, we had not spoken of the books – until my aunt since me a birthday package in January. And in it was a mini paperback of Who Moved My Cheese? with a note that said, “We can all use a refresher”.
Since I already had the book, I decided that I would take it to work to put on my Professional Development Bookshelf and offer it to just the right person when the time came.
What? There is a sequel?
But, before the book made it to work, I visited Ollie’s for their pre-grand opening and found Out of the Maze by Spencer Johnson!
You can read about that visit in this blog post, On a Budget? Shop at Ollie’s Bargain Outlet.
But, I couldn’t believe it! As much as I try to stay current on my books, I had totally missed the fact that the sequel to Who Moved My Cheese? had been released. The sequel is called, Out of the Maze. I also missed the fact that Dr. Spencer Johnson had passed away.
With the books being so in my face, I decided to take to the blog and give you a post on what you can expect from both books.
So, here goes.
Both books are written by Spencer Johnson. They provide insightful lessons on adapting to change and navigating through life’s challenges.
Johnson, a well-known author and speaker uses a simple parable to illustrate his teachings, making them accessible and applicable to readers of all ages and backgrounds – which is why I especially appreciate the teen version.
Who Moved My Cheese? And Who Moved My Cheese? for Teens
In Who Moved My Cheese? Johnson tells the story of four characters who live in a maze and rely on cheese for their survival. Two of the characters, Sniff and Scurry, are mice who instinctively search for cheese and quickly adapt to any changes in their environment.
The other two characters, Hem and Haw, are little people who become complacent when they find a large store of cheese and are resistant to change when their supply runs out.
As the story unfolds, the reader is reminded of the importance of being proactive and adaptable in the face of change. Johnson emphasizes that it is important to be like Sniff and Scurry, who are always ready to explore new opportunities and not afraid to venture into unfamiliar territory.
However, the story also highlights the danger of becoming too comfortable and resistant to change, as Hem and Haw do, and the negative impact this can have on personal and professional growth – which is so important to note.
Out of the Maze
Out of the Maze picks up where Who Moved My Cheese? leaves off, following Haw on his journey to find new cheese and navigate through the maze. The book delves deeper into the principles introduced in the first book and provides practical strategies for overcoming fear and embracing change.
Haw even has a new friend, Hope whom he finds in the maze. How amazing is it that her name is Hope? With this in mind, Johnson emphasizes the importance of letting go of old beliefs and habits that no longer serve us and learning to embrace new possibilities and opportunities.
So, quite naturally you can conclude that together Haw and Hope find their way out of the maze.
Final Thoughts
In summary, both books offer timeless lessons on navigating through life’s challenges. They encourage readers to be open to new experiences and to be willing to take risks in order to achieve personal and professional growth.
Additionally, the relatable characters make it easy to see how these principles can be applied in our own lives. So, whether you are a student, a professional, or simply someone who wants to live a fulfilling life, these books are an excellent resource for personal and professional growth.
I’m so glad that I found the sequel and am able to share my thoughts with you.
This post contains affiliate links to the books.
