From Publishers Weekly
Readers are well advised to avoid this oversimplified and unreliable book. In chapters covering such topics as brain function, memory and emotions, Maguire ( What Does Childhood Taste Like? ) raises attention-getting questions: "How Can I Tap into My Brain's Creative Potential?" and "Why Can Alcohol Give Me a Hangover, and How Can I Cure It?" This latter section provides a satisfactory chart on blood alcohol concentration but also inaccurately claims that "alcohol kills vitamins" and offers a brainless hangover "cure": rolling naked in the snow. Elsewhere Maguire reveals that seafood may appear to be an aphrodisiac because it is "a bladder excitant" and that geniuses are "almost hyperactive" compared to regular folks. Discussing intelligence in old age, he cites Winston Churchill's last prime ministership as performed with "admirable skill"--a point that conflicts with historical facts. In this case, Maguire clearly improvised rather than researched his findings. Illustrated. First serial to National Enquirer and Woman magazine; Macmillan Book Club selection.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Using a simple guidebook format, science writer Maguire has created a light compendium of assorted tidbits on matters neural. His miscellany of short articles considers aspects of brain physiology, consciousness, memory, intelligence, emotions, and the mind/body connection. Maguire briefly discusses such topics as headaches, dreams, hypnosis, energy cycles, photographic memories, deja vu, genius, idiot savants, phobias, and positive thinking. Examples of "brainware" that purport to enhance mental capacity are introduced, and simple exercises are suggested to increase memory and concentration. While no attempt is made to present new data, this digest is certainly a browser's delight.
- Laurie Bartolini, Lincoln Lib. Springfield, Ill.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
- Laurie Bartolini, Lincoln Lib. Springfield, Ill.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
