The Power of Wonder: The Science and Soul of an Extraordinary Emotion

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.

A world-renowned speaker, writer, and authority on the future of work, Monica Parker is a regularly sought-after contributor to radio, television, and written media. She spent the last ten years writing, speaking, and helping people discover how to find deeper meaning and purpose in their work lives. The founder of global human analytics and change consultancy HATCH, advising blue-chip clients such as LinkedIn, Google, Prudential, LEGO, and others on organizational change, Parker challenges corporate systems so people can be more fulfilled at work.