20 best books on the brain and memory – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’ve ever been fascinated by the complexities of the human brain and the mysteries of memory, then you’re in for a treat! We’ve curated a list of the 20 best books about the brain and memory that will take you on a mind-bending journey. From exploring the inner workings of the brain to unraveling the secrets of memory formation, these books will leave you in awe of the incredible capabilities of the human mind. So, grab a cup of coffee, find a cozy corner, and dive into these captivating reads!


The Brain that Changes Itself

by Norman Doidge

The Brain that Changes Itself by Norman Doidge is a mind-blowing journey into the remarkable world of neuroplasticity. This book on the brain and memory reveals the awe-inspiring ability of our brains to rewire and reorganize themselves, even in the face of adversity.

The Tell-Tale Brain

by V.S. Ramachandran

The Tell-Tale Brain by V.S. Ramachandran is a fascinating exploration into the mysterious world of the mind. This captivating book delves into the intricate workings of the human brain, unraveling its secrets and shedding light on the enigmatic realm of memory. With his keen insights and engaging writing style, Ramachandran takes readers on a thrilling journey through the labyrinth of the brain, unraveling the complex connections between perception, cognition, and memory. Whether you are a casual reader or a seasoned neuroscientist, this book on the brain and memory is sure to captivate and enlighten, leaving you with a deeper understanding of the intricate web that shapes our perception of the world.

The Memory Illusion

by Julia Shaw

The Memory Illusion by Julia Shaw is a mind-bending, thought-provoking book on the brain and memory. Shaw takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the mysterious world of our minds, challenging everything we thought we knew about our own memories. Prepare to have your perceptions twisted and your assumptions shattered as you delve into this captivating exploration of the brain and memory.

The Brain’s Way of Healing

by Norman Doidge

The Brain’s Way of Healing is an extraordinary book on the brain and memory, written by the renowned psychiatrist and researcher Norman Doidge. In this groundbreaking work, Doidge explores the fascinating world of neuroplasticity, the brain’s remarkable ability to reorganize and heal itself.

Through captivating stories of patients who have defied conventional medical wisdom and overcome debilitating conditions, Doidge reveals the incredible potential of our brain to transform and recover. From chronic pain to stroke recovery, and even Alzheimer’s disease, this book is a testament to the astonishing resilience and adaptability of the human brain.

With clear and accessible language, Doidge takes us on a journey through the latest scientific discoveries and innovative treatments that harness the brain’s own healing powers. He introduces us to pioneering doctors and therapists who are revolutionizing the field of neuroplasticity, offering hope to millions of individuals suffering from neurological conditions.

Whether you are a science enthusiast or simply curious about the mysteries of the brain, this book about the brain and memory will captivate and inspire you. It is a powerful reminder that our brains are not fixed entities, but rather malleable and constantly evolving. The Brain’s Way of Healing is a must-read for anyone seeking to unlock the hidden potential of their mind and unleash the incredible power of neuroplasticity.

The Organized Mind

by Daniel J. Levitin

The Organized Mind by Daniel J. Levitin is not your typical book on the brain and memory. It’s a fascinating journey into the intricacies of our most powerful tool – the mind. Levitin takes us on an adventure through the vast landscape of our thoughts, emotions, and memories, unraveling the mysteries of how our brain works and offering practical tips on how to optimize our cognitive abilities.

Moonwalking with Einstein

by Joshua Foer

Moonwalking with Einstein is a captivating book on the brain and memory that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the world of mental athletes and memory champions. In this mind-bending adventure, author Joshua Foer explores the astonishing potential of the human mind and reveals the secrets behind extraordinary memory feats.

The Shallows: What the Internet Is Doing to Our Brains

by Nicholas Carr

The Shallows: What the Internet Is Doing to Our Brains by Nicholas Carr is not just any ordinary book about the brain and memory. It is a thought-provoking exploration of how the internet is reshaping our minds and altering the very essence of our cognitive abilities.

Step into the fascinating world of neuroscience as Carr delves into the depths of our brain’s intricate workings, revealing the profound impact that the internet has on our attention span, memory, and overall thinking processes. This insightful book on the brain and memory takes us on a journey through the past, present, and future, as we navigate the changing landscape of our digital age.

Prepare to question everything you thought you knew about the brain as Carr presents compelling evidence that our reliance on the internet is rewiring our neural pathways, leading to profound changes in the way we think, learn, and remember. Through a blend of scientific research, historical anecdotes, and personal experiences, Carr paints a vivid picture of the brain’s adaptability and vulnerability.

In this captivating exploration, Carr challenges us to reflect on the ways in which our brains are being shaped by our online habits. As we immerse ourselves in a sea of information, our ability to concentrate deeply and reflect critically is gradually eroding. Carr argues that the internet’s constant distractions and never-ending stream of information are reshaping our brains into shallow vessels, preventing us from reaching the depths of intellectual growth and understanding.

With every page, Carr’s words will make you pause and question the impact of technology on your own brain and memory. Are we sacrificing the depth and richness of our thoughts for the convenience and immediacy of the internet? Is our constant online presence hindering our ability to think deeply and form lasting memories?

Discover the profound implications of the internet on our cognitive abilities in The Shallows: What the Internet Is Doing to Our Brains. This thought-provoking book about the brain and memory will leave you with a newfound awareness of the power of technology and its impact on our most precious intellectual faculties.

The Brain: The Story of You

by David Eagleman

The Brain: The Story of You by David Eagleman is a mind-expanding journey into the intricate world of our most mysterious organ. This captivating book delves into the fascinating realm of the human mind, exploring the complex interplay between our brains and memories.

The Power of Habit

by Charles Duhigg

The Power of Habit: A Fascinating Journey into the Inner Workings of the Mind

Step into the captivating world of Charles Duhigg’s The Power of Habit, a remarkable book that delves deep into the intricate mechanisms of the brain and memory. This thought-provoking masterpiece takes readers on an awe-inspiring exploration of the hidden forces that shape our habits and ultimately, our lives.

The Brain: A User’s Guide

by New Scientist

Welcome to The Brain: A User’s Guide, the ultimate exploration into the fascinating world of the mind. This captivating book on the brain and memory delves deep into the intricate workings of our most complex organ, offering a wealth of knowledge and insights that will leave you astounded.

The Memory Book

by Harry Lorayne and Jerry Lucas

Welcome to the incredible world of The Memory Book – a mind-bending journey into the depths of our most fascinating organ, the brain! This extraordinary book on the brain and memory, written by Harry Lorayne and Jerry Lucas, is like a treasure map leading you to the secret vaults of your mind.

Prepare to be amazed as Lorayne and Lucas take you on an unforgettable exploration of the brain’s infinite potential. With their unique blend of science, psychology, and practical techniques, they unlock the mysteries of memory and reveal the astonishing power hidden within each of us.

In this captivating book about the brain and memory, you’ll discover the secrets to remembering names, numbers, facts, and faces with effortless ease. You’ll learn how to tap into your brain’s natural ability to store and recall information, transforming your memory from average to extraordinary.

But The Memory Book is not just about memorization. It’s about enhancing your cognitive abilities, improving your problem-solving skills, and boosting your creativity. Lorayne and Lucas teach you how to think more clearly, make better decisions, and unleash your brain’s full potential.

So, whether you’re a student struggling with exams, a professional looking to gain a competitive edge, or simply someone who wants to sharpen their mind, The Memory Book is your ultimate guide to mastering the art of memory. Get ready to unlock the hidden powers of your brain and embark on an incredible journey of self-discovery!

The Brain: The Story of How We Think and Feel

by David Eagleman

The Brain: The Story of How We Think and Feel by David Eagleman is a captivating journey into the intricate workings of our mind. This brilliant book on the brain and memory takes us on an exhilarating exploration of the mind’s labyrinth, revealing the fascinating mechanisms that underlie our thoughts, emotions, and memories.

The Woman Who Changed Her Brain

by Barbara Arrowsmith-Young

The Woman Who Changed Her Brain is a captivating book on the brain and memory, written by Barbara Arrowsmith-Young. In this fascinating memoir, Arrowsmith-Young recounts her personal journey of overcoming learning disabilities through innovative brain exercises and techniques.

Arrowsmith-Young’s story is both inspiring and eye-opening, as she shares her struggles with various cognitive challenges, such as difficulty with reading, writing, and understanding spatial relationships. However, instead of accepting these limitations, she embarks on a remarkable quest to rewire her own brain.

The author’s journey takes her to the forefront of neuroscience and cognitive research, where she discovers groundbreaking discoveries about the brain’s plasticity and its ability to change and adapt. Armed with this knowledge, Arrowsmith-Young develops her own unique brain exercises, targeting specific cognitive weaknesses and strengthening them through targeted mental workouts.

Through her perseverance and dedication, Arrowsmith-Young not only transforms her own life but also establishes the Arrowsmith School, a renowned institution that helps others with learning disabilities by applying her innovative brain exercises.

This book about the brain and memory is a testament to the incredible potential of the human mind and its capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Arrowsmith-Young’s personal story is a reminder that with determination, resilience, and the right tools, anyone can change their brain and unlock their full cognitive potential.

The Brain’s Way of Thinking

by Gilles Fauconnier and Mark Turner

The Brain’s Way of Thinking is a fascinating book that delves into the intricate workings of our most powerful organ – the mind. With a focus on the brain and memory, this captivating read takes you on a journey through the inner workings of the human brain, exploring its incredible capacity for thought, perception, and memory.

The Memory Code

by Lynne Kelly

Welcome to The Memory Code by Lynne Kelly, an extraordinary journey into the depths of the mind, exploring the intricate relationship between the human brain and memory. Prepare to embark on an enlightening adventure through the labyrinth of our cognitive faculties as you delve into this captivating book on the brain and memory.

The Brain: The Ultimate Guide

by Rita Carter

The Brain: The Ultimate Guide by Rita Carter is an extraordinary journey into the intricate workings of the human mind. This captivating book delves deep into the fascinating world of the brain and memory, revealing the astonishing capabilities of our most precious asset.

Prepare to be astounded as Carter explores the intricacies of the human brain, unravelling its mysteries one chapter at a time. From the astonishing complexity of neural pathways to the awe-inspiring power of memory, this book takes you on an exhilarating adventure through the inner workings of the mind.

With a masterful blend of scientific research, captivating anecdotes, and stunning illustrations, Carter manages to make the complex world of neuroscience accessible to all. Every page is filled with mind-boggling facts and mind-blowing insights, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the incredible capabilities of the brain.

Whether you’re a curious reader seeking to expand your knowledge or a student of neuroscience looking for a comprehensive resource, The Brain: The Ultimate Guide is the perfect companion. This remarkable book will leave you with a newfound understanding and appreciation for the brain’s extraordinary abilities.

So, dive into this captivating journey into the depths of the mind, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of the brain and memory. With Rita Carter as your guide, you’ll discover a whole new world within yourself that you never knew existed.

The Memory Palace

by Mira Bartok

The Memory Palace by Mira Bartok is a captivating journey through the labyrinth of the mind, a book on the brain and memory that will leave you spellbound. Delving into the depths of the human psyche, Bartok weaves together her own personal story of living with mental illness, her complex relationship with her mother, and her tireless quest to unlock the secrets of memory. This book about the brain and memory is a mesmerizing exploration into the intricate workings of the mind, a kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences that will leave an indelible mark on your own memory palace.

The Brain: A Very Short Introduction

by Michael O’Shea

Welcome to the fascinating world of the mind! Dive into the depths of the intricate masterpiece that is the brain with “The Brain: A Very Short Introduction” by Michael O’Shea. This captivating book on the brain and memory takes you on an exhilarating journey through the labyrinth of neurons, synapses, and neurotransmitters that shape our thoughts, memories, and emotions.

The Memory Book: The Classic Guide to Improving Your Memory at Work, at School, and at Play

by Harry Lorayne and Jerry Lucas

The Memory Book: The Classic Guide to Improving Your Memory at Work, at School, and at Play is a captivating and insightful book on the brain and memory. Written by Harry Lorayne and Jerry Lucas, this book offers a treasure trove of techniques and strategies to enhance your memory power.

Whether you’re a student struggling to remember important facts for an exam, a professional looking to boost your productivity, or simply someone who wants to sharpen their memory skills, this book about the brain and memory is the perfect resource for you.

The authors, both renowned memory experts, delve into the fascinating world of the brain and memory, providing readers with practical exercises and mnemonics to improve their recall abilities. From memorizing names and faces to learning new languages, The Memory Book covers it all.

What sets this book apart is its engaging writing style and easy-to-follow techniques. Lorayne and Lucas break down complex memory processes into simple steps, making it accessible for readers of all backgrounds. They also sprinkle personal anecdotes throughout the book, making it an enjoyable and relatable read.

Furthermore, The Memory Book emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle in maintaining a strong memory. The authors highlight the role of nutrition, exercise, and sleep in optimizing brain function, offering valuable tips for maintaining overall brain health.

Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone interested in improving your memory, The Memory Book is an invaluable resource. Its practical techniques, engaging writing, and focus on brain health make it a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their memory potential. So dive into this brain and memory book and start boosting your memory power today!

The Brain: All about Our Nervous System and More!

by Seymour Simon

The Brain: All about Our Nervous System and More! by Seymour Simon is an incredible book that delves deep into the fascinating world of our most powerful organ. This book is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone curious about the complexities of the brain and memory. Whether you’re a student, a scientist, or simply someone who wants to understand how your brain works, this is the perfect book for you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about the brain and memory provide a captivating exploration into the mysteries of our minds. From uncovering the secrets of memory to delving into the complexities of cognitive processes, each book offers a unique perspective that will leave you awe-inspired. Whether you’re a psychology enthusiast or simply curious about the inner workings of the brain, these books will undoubtedly expand your knowledge and leave you with a deeper understanding of the incredible power of our minds.