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highly recommended |
"An astonishing new science called neuroplasticity is overthrowing the centuries-old notion that the human brain is immutable. Psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, Norman Doidge, M.D., traveled the country to meet both the brilliant scientists championing neuroplasticity and the people whose lives they've transformed-people whose mental limitations or brain damage were seen as unalterable. We see a woman born with half a brain that rewired itself to work as a whole, blind people who learn to see, learning disorders cured, IQs raised, aging brains rejuvenated, stroke patients learning to speak, children with cerebral palsy learning to move with more grace, depression and anxiety disorders successfully treated, and lifelong character traits changed. Using these marvelous stories to probe mysteries of the body, emotion, love, sex, culture, and education, Dr. Doidge has written an immensely moving, inspiring book that will permanently alter the way we look at our brains, human nature, and human potential."
Fascinating, entertaining for ordinary readers 
Although I'm not in the field at all, I found this book enlightening and fun to read. The author illustrates his points about brain plasticity through case studies and mini-biographies of groundbreaking researchers and therapists in the field, including the story of a woman born with only half a brain who amazingly adapts. Easy to read and non-technical, the book traces the history of prevailing scientific thought on brain structure and function, makes a convincing theoretical and practical case for plasticity, and shows how powerfully and positively plasticity concepts can be applied to real life situations to rescue "hopelessly" damaged people from their pain and suffering.
Positive Journey 
Norman Doidge offers an entertaining account of how researchers on the frontiers of neuroscience are creating a better world for all us. The stories he weaves keep our attention on many heroes. These range from researchers who are to be admired for their intelligence and persistence to others who have overcome great difficulties.
Most importantly, Doidge makes significant news readily accessible to those who are seeking better understanding of who they are and they how they might help themselves and others. A brain surgeon colleague was suitably impressed when I prompted him to read this fascinating account of brain science.
This book is a must read for health professionals, educators, mums and dads and all of us over 55. Friends and I have given away numerous copies. The recipients are never disappointed. [BTW, I have never met Norman. I have no shares in the publisher's company nor am I readily given to writing effusive reviews.]
The Brain that Changes Itself 
This book is an easy read with relatively large print and fascinating case histories. It discusses the changing brain from the aspect of different disciplines - psychology, neurology, rehabilitation, dream work, etc. Most everyone will find a story that they can relate to a personal experience.
Neuroplastisity - The Next Big Thing 
This book has changed how I think about my brain. I'll admit I used to believe that we were hard wired in certain areas of the brain and once the brain broke it could never be fixed. I remember hearing that growing up. I also remember that my father had a brain injury and other than getting lost and distracted he was able to do what ever he needed to do. This book explains how it was possible that he was able to do that. It proves that Neuroplasticity is possible and give us methods with which to do it.
I can understand some people might have a reluctance to pick up a book that's about Neurology. It sounds dry and difficult. But the use of cases and stories to explain the evolution of the theories will guide the non-scientist through this breakthrough research on the brain. It's not a difficult read.
He talks about the changes that happen when we age and what we can do to stave off the worst ones. It's not a surprise really we all know people who age well. They follow his suggestion and so retain their faculties into advanced age (whether they knew them or not). He tells the story of several people with severe brain injury and how they have managed to recover in very significant ways.
The Brain is an amazing machine 
This is a fantastic and challenging read! It breaks old ideas and challenges us to consider new thoughts on how versatile the brain might be. This is a great read for teachers, parents, and anyone who works with really young children. There is great help given to those of us approaching our 50's-60's! My book choice of the year!
Kathleen
reviews: page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
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