Advertisement
Books

Top 5 books for amateur neuro-scientists – as chosen by Pierre Hollins

Brains, more brains and… death. A trip through the brain and back again from the debut author

MIND WIDE OPEN
Steven Johnson 

This is a totally accessible deconstruction of how the brain works; from its evolution, to its deep-down nitty-gritty bio-chemical mechanics; with sections on how to improve personal cognitive functioning, rather than remain a slave to old neural habits.

I HAVE AMERICA SURROUNDED
John Higgs

A compelling study of the life and work of Dr Timothy Leary – the man who introduced the world to LSD.Written by John Higgs (everything by him is worth reading) this is a romp through the blockbusting adventure that was Leary’s life; but at its core is a clear insight into Leary’s methodology regarding the use of psychedelic drugs in therapy.

BREAKING OPEN THE HEAD
Daniel Pinchbeck

This is a rational search for spiritual revelation. Again, it’s drug-related, but don’t let that deter you. This is a scholarly appraisal of how to find deep meaning in a shallow world; full of heart, humour and philosophy. Stunningly good.

Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
Advertisement

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE DIE
Sam Parnia

Essential reading for anyone who cares to consider the possible state of consciousness after death. Gripping stuff.

THE HOLOGRAPHIC UNIVERSE
Michael Talbot

This is a distillation of the holonomic brain theory – a remarkable speculation, based on hard science, regarding the actual construction of thoughts and memory. Far reaching in its conclusions.

Pierre Hollins’ The Karma Farmers: Love, Murder and Quantum Theory is available now.

Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty

SIGN THE PETITION

It's our call to Keir Starmer to pass a law to end poverty.
big issue vendor holding up a 'we need a poverty zero law' sign

Recommended for you

Read All
The best books to read in summer 2025
Summer books

The best books to read in summer 2025

Women were a huge part of the Gold Rush. Why do we never hear about them?
Women

Women were a huge part of the Gold Rush. Why do we never hear about them?

Top 5 spy books for kids, chosen by Cecily Sawyer author Iona Rangeley
Books

Top 5 spy books for kids, chosen by Cecily Sawyer author Iona Rangeley

It's Terrible the Things I Have to Do to Be Me by Philippa Snow review – insights into female celebrity
Books

It's Terrible the Things I Have to Do to Be Me by Philippa Snow review – insights into female celebrity

Most Popular

Read All
Renters pay their landlords' buy-to-let mortgages, so they should get a share of the profits
Renters: A mortgage lender's window advertising buy-to-let products
1.

Renters pay their landlords' buy-to-let mortgages, so they should get a share of the profits

Exclusive: Disabled people are 'set up to fail' by the DWP in target-driven disability benefits system, whistleblowers reveal
Pound coins on a piece of paper with disability living allowancve
2.

Exclusive: Disabled people are 'set up to fail' by the DWP in target-driven disability benefits system, whistleblowers reveal

Cost of living payment 2024: Where to get help now the scheme is over
next dwp cost of living payment 2023
3.

Cost of living payment 2024: Where to get help now the scheme is over

Citroën Ami: the tiny electric vehicle driving change with The Big Issue
4.

Citroën Ami: the tiny electric vehicle driving change with The Big Issue