The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain

The Surprising Talents of the Middle-Aged Mind

By: Barbara Strauch

Narrated by: Nona Pipes

A leading science writer examines how the brain's capacity reaches its peak in middle age. For many years, scientists thought that the human brain simply decayed over time and its dying cells led to memory slips, fuzzy logic, negative thinking, and even depression. But new research from neuroscientists and psychologists suggests that, in fact, the brain reorganizes, improves in important functions, and even helps us adopt a more optimistic outlook in middle age. Growth of white matter and brain connectors allow us to recognize patterns faster, make better judgments, and find unique solutions to problems. Scientists call these traits cognitive expertise and they reach their highest levels in middle age.

In her impeccably researched book, science writer Barbara Strauch explores the latest findings that demonstrate, through the use of technology such as brain scans, that the middle-aged brain is more flexible and more capable than previously thought. For the first time, long-term studies show that our view of middle age has been misleading and incomplete. By detailing exactly the normal, healthy brain functions over time, Strauch also explains how its optimal processes can be maintained.

Part scientific survey, part how-to guide, The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain is a fascinating glimpse at our surprisingly talented middle-aged minds.

©2010 Barbara Strauch (P)2009 Audible, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Strauch tackles [loaded questions] with all the scientific instruments at her disposal...the latest findings neurological, biochemical, and psychological, with an illuminating dose of anecdote thrown in." (New Scientist)

"Provocative....A contender for every parent's reading list." (Newsday)

This book increases self confidence on our brain.

Would you listen to The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain again? Why?

Yes, whenever I think my brain is decreasing its performance and making me feel old.

What did you like best about this story?

The original ideas transmited by the author in a very friendly way of writing.

Have you listened to any of Nona Pipes’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes

Interesting but not amazing

Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?

I wouldn't know. The book is interesting in some respect, but it seems to repeat the same idea too often.

What could Barbara Strauch have done to make this a more enjoyable book for you?

Repeat less.

What about Nona Pipes’s performance did you like?

The book was well read.

Could you see The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain being made into a movie or a TV series? Who should the stars be?

No, not really.

Wonderful! Positive information and Great Narrator

This was a great listen! The writer describes why aging brain is not that bad. Although memory declines, older brains are more positive and are better in dealing with a variety of situations. At times, I find the book repetitive, but I think this is done so that the points can really hit home. I really like the ending where she talks about her friends and the roses. What a great way to end the book! The narrator did a great job and brought the book to life!

Wonderful research

The writing is so good and lends itself well to audio. I was particularly impressed with the analogies used by the author. Overall, made the research much more approachable and interesting for non-scientists.

Informative and interesting

Where does The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Interesting science, but too many personal references to anxiety about aging.

How would you have changed the story to make it more enjoyable?

A little less emphasis on assuming the reading is in middle age and panicking about getting old.

Have you listened to any of Nona Pipes’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I'm not sure

What’s an idea from the book that you will remember?

How exercise helps create new neurons. The brain is plastic and can grow new cells, and science is finally overcoming the dogma decreed in 1913 that the brain can't change.

Any additional comments?

The book often referenced getting old and then made a point about how the aging brain is actually not as badly in decline as we presumed. This had the ironic effect of creating anxiety by starting with the assumption that we all worry about aging. I'd rather she just explain the discoveries and tone down all the personal concerns. I'd mention it once on the back cover, to pique the interest of older folks who really have started to worry about dementia, but don't harp on it throughout the book and alienate younger people.

started hopeful and interesting

About the midpoint it started to sound less scientific and less focused. by the end it felt like a list of theories that have little scientific basis; the author generally disclosed the science behind the theories and I commend her for that.

overall a decent book with sparks of greatness.

An uplifting must read, or listen to book.

Besides enjoying the book, and the authors occasional humorous anecdotes, I found it positive and uplifting. After, experiencing some of the negatives she mentions (such as why did I come into this room?)it was good to be reminded of the positive things the more mature brain has to offer.
In addition, I have laced up my sneakers again and have started guitar lessons at age 52.Enjoy.

More Waffles with Blueberries

A great summary of recent brain studies for those who are not neuroscience professors. Interesting findings that inspire hope for the middle aged brain, provided some real world tips on keeping your brain sharp, and even tossed in some parenting advice for teenagers who don't sleep. I now add blueberries to every meal I can put them in (my favorite: 1 cup blueberries + 1/2 cup syrup, simmer for 10 minutes, pour over waffles)

Thesis could be an essay albeit worth hearing

An easy listen due to quality reading and interesting research. Concepts are somewhat belaboured. I would have preferred a faster pace. That said, the content is more than worthwhile. I have recommended the book to several friends.

Great information but quite redundant

What did you love best about The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain?

Great information about how the brain works in middle age

What did you like best about this story?

Good data

What does Nona Pipes bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Very good inflection and narration

Any additional comments?

There are waaaay too many examples of forgetfulness. We know already since most listeners already experience these difficulties. The book is very good but could have been lightened up a bit.