The Bookshelf: Nov. 27, 2014

Trib+Edu is joining with respected books authority Kirkus Reviews to bring you select reviews of books of note in the field of public education. For more book reviews and recommendations, visit Kirkus.com.

HOW WE LEARN: The Surprising Truth About When, Where, and Why It Happens

by Benedict Carey

Carey chose to write scientific mysteries for kids as a distraction from his day job as a science reporter for The New York Times, until it dawned on him that he had an amazing story to share: Ostensibly poor study habits can be important to improving learning strategies. Recent experiments in cognition offer startling insights into how the brain works, contradicting traditional beliefs about the merits of concentration and self-discipline. “Distractions can aid learning,” writes the author. “Napping does, too. Quitting before a project is done: not bad, as an almost done project lingers in memory far longer than one that is completed.” … A fascinating perspective on how we can benefit from the distractions of daily life.

For full review, visit kirkus.com