The Power of Wonder Audiobook By Monica C. Parker cover art

The Power of Wonder

The Extraordinary Emotion That Will Change the Way You Live, Learn, and Lead

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The Power of Wonder

By: Monica C. Parker
Narrated by: Monica C. Parker
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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 listeners 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 listeners 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.

©2023 Monica C. Parker (P)2023 Penguin Audio Career Success Creativity & Genius Emotions Personal Development Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Human Brain Mental Health Health

Critic reviews

"Monica Parker has taken an undervalued emotion — and demonstrated its capacity to transform our lives. The Power of Wonder delivers on its title by showing how wonder can spark creativity, deepen humility, and boost performance. This book is precisely what we need to cultivate curiosity, empathy, and open-mindedness in our world.” —Daniel H. Pink, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Power of Regret, When, and Drive

“I am in wonder reading this book! Wow! Monica Parker makes the convincing case that wonder is a mindset we can bring to anything to enrich our lives and the lives of those around us. This is a must-read book for our times!" —Scott Barry Kaufman, PhD, author of Choose Growth and Transcend

“Wonder means seeing the artistry in the everyday, and in The Power of Wonder, Monica Parker shares that unique vision with others. Her enlightening exploration of wonder will have you rediscovering the world with fresh eyes and a full heart.” —Nathan Sawaya, artist and creator of The Art of the Brick
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I was in awe many times listening to this book. The author is incredibly thorough in looking at all aspects of this wondrous experience of connecting with the divine. I learned a tremendous amount and it literally brought me back to my childlike center many times where I prefer to be. I loved this book.

This really touched me to my soul!

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This book and developing a “wonder practice” is a truly life affirming exercise. It is well written and read. I was familiar with much of the research but really like the framing. My only dislike is the frequent reference to TM as a mediation practice. I have counseled too many people harmed by Maharishi’s cult. I have done interviews with former teachers and experts. I like meditation just avoid Transcendental Meditation.

Great book. I dare say Wonderful

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I really loved this synthesis of research regarding awe and wonder, happiness and neuroscience.

This is a book about, by, and for people with curious minds who often exclaim “wow!” in wonder over things other people may not notice, and the people who want to understand and maybe even be more like them.

The author weaves anecdotal stories in with hard medical science research and social science statistics in a way only a professional can. Her style is easy to listen to, readily accessible, without laboring over semantics. She brings expertise about how the brain reacts to stimuli, about the ways humans feel awe, covering the things that might inspire wonder, how to be more primed for those special experiences, and how awe and wonder are so beneficial for us.

This audible made me say “Wow!” multiple times while listening. The stories felt personal and inspiring. I was also very impressed with how well the author read her work aloud. She’s expressive and clear about her point, she builds a crescendo both with information and her enthusiasm as she reads each chapter. You’re along for the ride as she delves in to discuss her questions, her quest, and where she found her answers.

I love this book and have recommended it to many friends. I hope they experience the book, and the world, with as much wonder and awe as I do.

If you regularly feel wonder from little things, you will love this book

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I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book. I can tell you to expect compelling stories, eye-opening science, and great summaries to wrap up each topic and retain information. I was surprised by this book again and again!

Great storytelling and science

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This was an insightful and inspiring examination of the science, experience, and value of wonder to each of us individually and as a species.

Wonder Filled Examination

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The science behind the power of wonder with mini how-to’s allow a deeper understanding of

Science and awe

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