Stolen Focus

The Sunday Times and New York Times Bestseller

A Spectator and Financial Times Best Book of 2022

A Waterstones Non-Fiction Book of the Month

“If you read just one book about how the modern world is driving us crazy, read this one.” – Telegraph

“This book is exactly what the world needs right now.” – Oprah Winfrey

“A beautifully researched and argued exploration of the breakdown of humankind's ability to pay attention.” – Stephen Fry

“A really important book . . . Everyone should read it.” – Philippa Perry

Is your ability to focus and pay attention in free fall?

You are not alone. The average office worker now focuses on any one task for just three minutes. But it’s not your fault. Your attention didn’t collapse. It has been stolen.

Internationally bestselling author Johann Hari draws readers into a profound investigation, revealing twelve critical factors that are disastrously impacting our capacity to concentrate. With a writing style that effortlessly weaves personal anecdotes with rigorous research, Hari offers a compelling narrative filled with shocking insights and revelations. He dives deep into the science of attention, exploring how societal changes, technology, work environments, and even lifestyle choices contribute to our scattered minds.

What makes Stolen Focus truly eye-opening is Hari’s ability to present complex issues in an engaging and relatable manner. By unpacking the hidden forces at play, he provides readers with a clear understanding of how their focus is being hijacked and what can be done to reclaim it. Each chapter delves into a different aspect of the problem, from the omnipresence of digital distractions to the decline of in-depth reading and thoughtful conversation.

Stolen Focus is not just a book; it is a manifesto for a return to thoughtful living. Hari passionately argues that by addressing these twelve factors collectively, society can regain its ability to concentrate and, in turn, enrich our lives.

If you find yourself constantly pulled in multiple directions, struggling to maintain focus in an era of continuous partial attention, this book offers a vital roadmap to regain control over your mind. Concluding with practical advice and hopeful solutions, Stolen Focus empowers readers to combat the forces that steal their attention and to once again fully engage with the world around them.