«Our memory defines both who we are and who we think we are. Memory makes us human and explains why one of our greatest fears is the cruel loss of memory associated with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. In this wonderfully lucid and erudite book Richard Restak explains the varied nature of memory, how we can enhance our memory, why memory fails, and the action of aids, that may or may not, enhance our memory. I recommend this book as an essential read for anybody interested in knowing what it is to be human.»

Russell Foster, Professor of Circadian Neuroscience, University of Oxford and bestselling author of

«Thought provoking .... Tips its hat at some very big ideas»

The Times

«Drawing on relevant scientific findings, as well as practical wisdom dating back to ancient times, Richard Restak has written a fine and comprehensive book about human memory. Whether you are a cognitive scientist, an interested student, a worried elder, or simply a curious reader, you are likely to marvel at and possibly enhance your mnemonic skills.»

Howard Gardner, Hobbs Research Professor of Cognition and Education, Harvard University

«[A] comprehensive compendium of everything we know about memory and how we might improve it.»

New Scientist