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The Brain That Changes Itself

Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science
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( 39,575 ratings, 2,746 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge explores the groundbreaking discoveries in neuroplasticity, revealing how our brains can adapt and reorganise themselves throughout our lives. Through compelling stories and scientific research, Doidge demonstrates how people can overcome brain injuries, mental challenges, and lifelong habits by harnessing the brain's remarkable ability to change. This book offers a hopeful perspective on human potential and resilience.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you're fascinated by the brain's incredible ability to adapt and heal. It explores groundbreaking research in neuroplasticity, showing how mental exercises can reshape our neural pathways and improve our lives. You'll find it inspiring and thought-provoking with real-life stories illustrating the power of the adaptable human brain.

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Introduces us to the stories of the brain science and the discipline of 'neuroplasticity'. This title allows you to meet the stroke victim who unable to feed or dress himself learned to move and talk again, and the maverick scientists over turning centuries of assumptions about the brain and it's capacity for renewal.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge is a groundbreaking exploration into the extraordinary ways the human brain can adapt, heal, and change itself throughout our lives. Drawing on the latest scientific research in neuroplasticity, Doidge tells captivating stories of real people who've experienced astonishing transformations. Through engaging narratives, he introduces readers to a diverse array of individuals whose brains have compensated for damage and dysfunction in amazing ways, challenging long-held beliefs about the rigidity of the human brain.

You'll meet the ninety-year-old physician who continues to practice medicine with agility and sharpness, the stroke victim who defied all odds to walk and speak again, and the woman who, despite having only half a brain, leads a remarkably functional and fulfilling life. These and many other case histories highlight the incredible potential for recovery and change within the human brain, made possible by harnessing the power of positive thinking and rehabilitation techniques.

Norman Doidge, a bestselling author, psychiatrist, and psychoanalyst, reveals the cutting-edge science driving these miraculous recoveries. He takes you on a journey through the revolutionary field of neuroplasticity, showcasing its principles and exploring the scientists who have pioneered this transformative knowledge. These maverick researchers are dismantling centuries of misconceptions about the brain's capabilities and limitations, opening up new possibilities for medical science and human potential.

It's not just anecdotal evidence that fuels Doidge's claims; he delves into hard science, explaining complex concepts with clarity and eloquence. Readers will discover how blind individuals can be trained to see, how IQ levels can be enhanced, and how memories can be sharpened, all through innovative and scientifically-backed methods. Each story reinforces the remarkable flexibility and resilience of the brain, inspiring hope for those struggling with neurological challenges.

The Brain That Changes Itself is a uniquely inspiring and accessible book that leaves readers marveling at the limitless possibilities of the mind. Through Doidge's engaging prose and profound insights, this book shines a light on the innate, self-healing power that resides within every one of us, making it a must-read for anyone interested in neuroscience, psychology, or self-improvement.

OVER ONE MILLION COPIES SOLD

"A remarkable and hopeful portrait of the endless adaptability of the human brain." – Oliver Sacks

"Utterly wonderful . . . without question one of the most important books about the brain you will ever read; yet it is beautifully written, immensely approachable, and full of humanity." – Iain McGilchrist, author of The Master and His Emissary

This inspiring book will leave you with a sense of wonder at the capabilities of the mind, and the self-healing power that lies within all of us.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge is praised for being one of the most significant books on the brain, beautifully written and accessible. It conveys a hopeful message about the brain's adaptability. Critics highlight its monumental implications in science and medicine and commend its engaging portrayal of human potential.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141038872

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 07 August 2008

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 25.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 326g

Pages: 448

About the Author

Norman Doidge, MD, is a psychiatrist, psychoanalyst and New York Times bestselling author. He was on the Research Faculty of the Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research at Columbia University's Department of Psychiatry in New York City, and on the faculty of the University of Toronto's Department of Psychiatry for thirty years. He is four time recipient of Canada's National Magazine Gold Award. He is a native of Toronto.

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