Scott Berkun

Must read book: Brain rules

Brain rules is easily the best book I’ve read this year. I don’t say this lightly as I read many books, skim many more, and read lots of things I enjoy.

This book hits the non-fiction trifecta:

• It’s about a universal subject – how we think and how our minds work.
• It’s well-written, funny, entertaining and concise.
• It’s based on research with support for nearly every claim made in the book.
• Bonus: the author admits lots of things he and the field do not know (Huge credibility points – I love this)

Unlike Pink’s A Whole New Mind, a book whose premise I’m fond of but whose arguments were often weak and in some cases absurd, the book Brain rules never strays. He follows most of his own rules in how the book is structured, one main point per chapter, one set of basic advice derived from his interpretation of research.

As a teaser here’s some of what I learned:

• Sleep makes your smarter – your brain processes information you need in your sleep
• Exercise makes you smarter – our brains and bodies work best when moving
• There is no scientific basis for how schools or courses are structured
• The left vs. right brain thing is waaaay overblown (Pink needs to read this)
• True multitasking is biologically impossible

I’m recommending the book to just about everyone – other writers, teachers, parents, friends, friends with kids, kids with friends.

If you’re not sure, check out the excellent supporting site for the book:  Brain Rules website.

Or go ahead and pick up the book here. (The hardcover version includes a DVD)