A review by bearlythinking
Livewired: The Inside Story of the Ever-Changing Brain by David Eagleman

4.0

Eagleman explains things clearly, but often reaches to extrapolate. Very fascinating findings throughout, but I think Eagleman is a bit pie-in-the-sky about the implications of his/others' research.

No better example exists of this than the final chapter — Eagleman asks why we can't have inorganic structures like buildings and vehicles act in the same "livewired" manner that organic beings like humans do. Why can't we have stadiums that "livewire" themselves to provide more bathrooms during halftime? Really?

But beyond that nitpick, Eagleman writes in a manner that is both brutally concise and deeply entertaining. He doesn't waste too much time presenting key findings and every story has a purpose.

All in all, worth a read. But prepare for a few eyerolls along the way in what's otherwise a wonderful book.