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The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain
The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain
May 19, 2024 10:27 PM

Author:Barbara Strauch

The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain

For many years, scientists thought that the human brain simply decayed over time and its dying cells led to memory slips, fuzzy logic, negative thinking, and even depression. But new research from neuroscien tists and psychologists suggests that, in fact, the brain reorganizes, improves in important functions, and even helps us adopt a more optimistic outlook in middle age. Growth of white matter and brain connectors allow us to recognize patterns faster, make better judgments, and find unique solutions to problems. Scientists call these traits cognitive expertise and they reach their highest levels in middle age.

In her impeccably researched book, science writer Barbara Strauch explores the latest findings that demonstrate, through the use of technology such as brain scans, that the middle-aged brain is more flexible and more capable than previously thought. For the first time, long-term studies show that our view of middle age has been misleading and incomplete. By detailing exactly the normal, healthy brain functions over time, Strauch also explains how its optimal processes can be maintained. Part scientific survey, part how-to guide,The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brainis a fascinating glimpse at our surprisingly talented middle-aged minds.

Reviews

Alluring and uplifting

—— New Scientist

There are a lot of brain books out there, and this is one of the best

—— Los Angeles Times

Accessible and entertaining ... paints a radically new picture of the brain

—— Scientific American

A brilliant mixture of medical, metaphorical and philosophical commentary

—— Richard Holmes , The Times

This tour de force has... sheer gusto and kinetic energy

—— Guardian

This amusing and very useful book is a must for any gardener, whether highly knowledgeable or rank amateur.

—— Good Book Guide

Refreshingly down-to-earth guide

—— Red

It is the perfect book for the armchair gardener!

—— Period House

This joyful little book will help debunk some gardening myths, and reveal your garden as it really is.

—— Gardening Which?

A gem of a book

—— Todmorden News

An essential gardening book:Ken Thompson's book should be on every gardener's bookshelf. It is a well-written, easy to read publication with a nice touch of humour. Ken Thompson makes gardening science easy without trivialising it - and, throughout, there are useful practical tips. As a professional gardener, I highly recommend this book.

—— DP Tabberner, Stourbridge , Amazon

A delightful read: A lovely diversion from the dumbed down style of gardening you see on TV, this small book runs through the science background of gardening without coming over at all too technical.
I was slightly disappointed with the chapter on Latin names, but the rest of the book was just packed with interesting facts and anecdotes.
If you're interested in how your garden works then you'll enjoy and be informed by this book.

—— G. Thulbourn , Amazon
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