Wall Street Journal bestseller
An eye-opening journey through the magical, yet surprisingly little-understood, human emotion that is wonder.
From the first tickle of curiosity to an unexpected shift in how we perceive the world, there isn’t a person who hasn’t experienced wonder, and yet the why and how of this profoundly beneficial emotion is only just beginning to be scientifically examined. This inspiring book from thought leader Monica Parker explores the power of wonder to transform the way we learn, develop new ideas, drive social change, and ultimately become better humans.
The Power of Wonder takes readers on a multidisciplinary journey through psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, literature, and business to share some of the surprising secrets behind the mechanics of wonder and guides readers in bringing more of it into their lives. From art and architecture, to love and sex, to sleep and psychedelics, you will learn about the elements and elicitors of wonder, and how it can transform our bodies and brains. Whether it’s taking a daily “wonder walk” or discovering a new absorbing intellectual pursuit, this book shows us how to become more wonderprone and reconnect with a reverence for the world and all the magic in it.
From the Publisher
Publisher : Tarcher
Publication date : February 21, 2023
Language : English
Print length : 400 pages
ISBN-10 : 0593419367
ISBN-13 : 978-0593419366
Item Weight : 1.03 pounds
Dimensions : 5.77 x 1.29 x 8.53 inches
Kjoy –
An Elixir For Our Post-Pandemic World!
Parker has a gift for perspective! In a world that feels increasingly volatile and fragile post-Covid, it is incumbent upon us more than ever, to seek out and share in the joy of our human experience, as an antidote to loneliness, anxiety, and resignation. As Cheryl Strayed said in her book, Wild, âThereâs always a sunrise and always a sunset and itâs up to you to choose to be there for it,â said my mother. ‘Put yourself in the way of beauty.â Parker’s “The Power of Wonder” provides us with a clear path to opening our eyes, our senses, and our consciousness – to unlock the beauty all around us and expand our capacity for joy and meaning.As a middle school special education teacher for students with social, emotional, and behavioral challenges, I am experiencing first hand, the mental health crisis facing our youth. Not only do I need the tools to help myself stay energized, optimistic, and full of wonder for my students (put your own oxygen mask on first!), but I need the inspiration and language to share with them as well! The Power of Wonder is a mind-shifting read, a powerful tool, and a book club must! I’m looking forward to exploring these perspective-shifting ideas within my next teacher book club, and sharing with my classroom during our advisory and social skills lessons!
Laguna1818 –
It Brings the Wonder!
“The Power of Wonder” by Monica Parker is a wonderful book that encourages readers to tap into their sense of curiosity and wonder. Parker’s writing is engaging, insightful, and thought-provoking. She explores the importance of wonder in our lives, and how we can cultivate it in ourselves and those around us.One of the things I appreciated most about this book is Parker’s ability to weave together personal anecdotes, scientific research, and philosophical musings into a cohesive narrative. Her writing is both accessible and profound, making this a book that can be enjoyed by readers of all backgrounds and interests.Overall, I highly recommend “The Power of Wonder” to anyone who is looking to deepen their sense of wonder and curiosity in the world around them. It is a book that will inspire and challenge you to think differently about the world, and to embrace the joy of exploring the unknown.
Lena Mary –
âChargingâOur Lives
Reading is certainly one of my more favorite pass times, but rarely have I read a book that had me exclaiming âYes!â; âThatâs so true!â and just âWowâ ⦠in wonder. Monica Parker has a true gift to look at the world in a way that brings her peace, joy and childlike wonder, and a beautiful way of showing us why and how we can capture this spirit too. The Power of Wonder can almost be seen as a how-to or a DIY on rediscovering the magic all around us. Itâs so beautifully written that any reader will enjoy it, but all of us can benefit from looking around us with fresh eyes, living and working more joyfully and mindfully. As a former counselor, I particularly hope that those who live with, or treat persons with depression might have takeaways that might just change lives. Applause to Monica Parker.
Alise Cortez –
Wonder is the Kind of World I Want to Live In!
I devoured Monica’s book on wonder. I had no idea there was that much to learn about this little-mentioned emotion that has the capacity to entirely elevate every aspect of our lives! This book is jam-packed with fascinating research on wonder, countless references to resources available to us to stoke our wonder, and loads of practical tips and tools for cultivating wonder. Monica says wonder is best shared, and her book does just that.
Willaro –
Wonderful AND Powerful
More than worth the investment in money and time – and I am only up to page 29. Be prepared to go DEEPER than reviews and interviews may have suggested. If you are already familiar with your personal profile in the Five-Factor Model of Personality (the “Big Five”), you may realize that you have already been intuitively practicing the “Wonder Cycle.” All you need do is own it, and you will be propelled forward. If you are not familiar with the Big Five you will be primed to take that first step. I did not have to get far into this book to start feeling the changes. And that impels me to blaze through this book. But I know it is best if I take my time. The self has to catch up to the Self. This is a long overdue addition to my library. NOTE TO EDITOR: on page 16 the asterisk footnote could use a matching asterisk in the first paragraph.
John H. Miller –
A masterpiece!
As an awe researcher, I pick up everything I can on the subject. Ms Parker’s book has compiled science and real life examples of the true power of living a life filled with wonder. The last chapter had me in tears of joy! Her skilled writing and deep understanding of the subject matter left me with motivation to continue exploring. Thank you for this eloquent masterpiece!
Sherry –
EYE-OPENING, FUN AND WELL RESEARCHED
WONDER was easy to read and presented so many avenues to move toward. This book is the antidote for anyone who ever feels bored and thinks nothing exciting is going to happen…excitement happens all the time, 24/7. I will be 78 this month and this is the best birthday present I could give to myself. Thank you for writing and sharing.
E. Robertson –
This book will make you think about yourself and the world differently
One of my top reads in a long timeI am a voracious reader, so it takes a lot for a book to really jump out and grab me, but this one did it! So much research but really lovely stories too. I found the parts about the health benefits of wonder pretty cool. There was even a bit of research about the connection between personality and vision, which as an optician, I loved. If you enjoy an entertaining read that will leave you thinking, you wonât be disappointed.
FH –
I bought The Power of Wonder after reading an article in Psychologies magazine. I found Monica Parkerâs intro to the topic intriguing, and I wanted to learn more. The book is very well researched and youâre able to dip in and dip out of it to explore ways of introducing more wonder to our everyday lives. A wonder walk is now a regular thing! Thoroughly recommend.
MR PAUL KELLY –
Fantastic book, every page has another nugget that you can use to make your every day better. Highly recommended and will not disappoint. Well written and easy to read. I couldn’t put it down!
Amazon Customer –
Such a beautiful book and quite interesting !! Wouldâve given it five stars but Parkerâs stories about her life were so âwonderfulâ I wanted more.