I haven't read the book. I think the stereotype of a "nerd" is someone who is awkward in social settings, unaware of their appearance (Clothing mismatched, pants too short, bottle-bottom glasses taped together in the middle. Their heads may be buried in a book, but it doesn't mean they're smart, but maybe uncomfortable conversing with other people casually. I think the winning combination is to have a very smart, hardworking person who is also socially comfortable. I try to impress on my sons that they should aspire to have good hygiene, wear reasonable clothes, and be witty and interesting. I'm not happy with the "nerd" label.