No comments about Memory Books and Other Graphic Cuing Systems: Practical Communication and Memory Aids for Adults with Dementia.

3 comments about The Business of Memory: How to Maximize Your Brain Power and Fast Track Your Career.

1. The organization and superb clarity with which this book is written makes it an easy read, despite the subject matter being complex. The writer has found a way for us to want to focus on his altruistic goal for us: to enhance our memory skills so that we can be more influential in the business world, and in our social interactions. Yet, the book is useful for everyone. We are once again convinced that knowledge is power, and Mr. Felberbaum's knowledge seems to be golden power, and we want it badly. He then provides us with hundreds of tools to improve areas where many struggle, including how to give a speech without notes, absorbing the contents of a lecture, and remembering people's names. We trust him as an expert in memory as he shares his motivation for entering this field, documents his own training, his vast experience, and then describes for us the amazing ways he has applied his abilities all over the world, letting us in on his secrets.



2. Frank Felberbaum's "The Business of Memory" is one of the most practical books on the market for providing clear and concise methods for anyone to increase their memory. I used Frank's techniques with great success when I helped coach the current high school US Memory Championship team.



3. I met Mr. Felberbaum on Saturday March 11, 2006 at the USA Memory Competition New York City at the Con Edison building. What a great guy! I introduced myself and expressed to him how much I enjoyed reading his excellent book. This book is a pleasure to read, informative, and includes many easy to follow strategies that can dramatically improve your ability to remember ANYTHING you want. I highly recommend this book!

3 comments about Your Memory: A User's Guide.

1. It is an excelent book about most aspect of amnesia as well as useful case studies.



2. "In one sense we cannot change our memory. By this I mean that I know of no way in which the neural systems underlying memory can be systematically enhanced. What we can do, however, is use the system we have more effectively." Dr. Allen Baddeley
   
   This book describes memory in mostly real world contexts. Concepts make intuitive sense. We tend to remember what we are interested in and what is important to us.
   
   Theories are discussed and some may disagree with Dr. Baddeley's but he makes even-handed assessments. (Here's my theory for these reasons, here's another theory for those reasons.) I got the feeling the state of the science is presented, not someone's opinion.
   
   I've read "Your Memory How it Works and How To Improve It" by Dr. Kenneth Higbee and found it technique oriented, i.e. HOW was discussed. Dr. Baddeley goes into more depth on WHAT. I think it would be wise to read "Your Memory A User's Guide" first and then "Your Memory How It Works and How To Improve It".



3. I had to write a seminar on memory recently and read every book on the shelf. This is without question the authoritative text. It's easy to read, it's easy to understand, and the author is a renowned expert in the field who has taken this book through several editions.
   
   - Thom

3 comments about Improve Your Memory.

1. I am 37 year old non traditional student going back to finish a masters degree and continue with law school. Fry's books have been helpful. I have especially appreciated his remarks about adult ADD, as I have had ADDsince 4th grade, but have been untreated until recently. I am glad that distinguished authors like Mr Fry state their positions about the condition and the use in as objective terms as possible, even if they are in disagreement with this "controversial" phenomenon. This is professional authorship. I would be remiss in telling Mr Fry how to improve upon his writing. I appreciate that physicians and psychiatrists who have helped me find my way through this maze of confusion are extended the same professional courtesy. To criticize a physician for his/her skills in medicine if one is not a doctor, or to ascertain that conditions like ADD dont exist just because a person doesnt "have it" themselves is contempt prior to investigation. Thank you



2. I wanted to be able to remember to take the trash out in the morning... this book teaches you how to remember that Lolita was written in 1958. Basically it uses word associations -- things like coming up with a little song ("In 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue") or mnemonics (to remember that the elemental symbol for Tin is Sn, picture a tin snake so whenever you think of tin you think of a Snake). Then it teaches how to use this stuff to remember strings of numbers, dates, etc. Probably pretty useful for a schoolkid, but not for me. Also, this book is really better suited to the printed format because it has quizzes and stuff where you're supposed to sit there and study a set of numbers before flipping to the next page and seeing how much you remember -- a lot easier to look up and down the page than it is to rewind the audiobook over and over.



3. Let me make this clear: Improve Your Memory will help you if you don't know anything about the subject (i.e. about memory), however there are better books with more techniques. It also disappointed me when compared to the others in the series.
   
   It has the advantage of being clearly written (though keeps repeating things that are written in the other books by Fry, which is a fault of all books in the series) and I believe it is a perfect book for high school. But if you already know about association techniques you should find another book.
   
   As for the series, they are very informative, however very repetitive. They could easily be trimmed into a book of approximately the same size as each individual volume. They are cheap, but if instead of many you had to buy only one they would be cheaper.

2 comments about Shamanic Spirit: A Practical Guide to Personal Fulfillment.

1. As one who has been apprenticed to a shamanic path with heart, I can see in Meadows book, although it is just the beginning of a shamanics education, a depth of understanding that shows true "knowing." This is important stuff for the West.
   
   Unfortunately, there is no bridge to shamanics from the popular teachings of Christianity, or Judaism, or any of the other mainstream spiritual paths. Someone who comes from one of these other spiritual traditions into "shamanics" will have to discover the obstacles to understanding implanted by their conditioned views of Reality and themselves. It would be very helpful to many from these traditions to have an early bridge chapter which prepares a reader for the assumptions and beliefs that he is going to have to challenge as he undertakes the shamanics teachings. That chapter is not here. But this doesn't lessen the excellence of what is here. It just means we've got to be prepared to leap from a high place into a deep pool without knowing how chilled the water or deep the bottom. Such is life! The Unknown is the only place to be to feel alive.
   
   Reflecting on Ken's book, it saddens me what Mankind in the West has already lost in embracing religious traditions which turn away from the Earth and the Sacredness of All That Is for a mechanical and deadened view of Life Itself. It often takes a great deal of courage for someone from those other traditions to take a step into the Unknown of the material in this book. For those who need a challenge, hear mine! This book will open your mind and heart.
   
   Good work, Ken! And thanks for all your other works as well. These works are a real Giveaway of Love by both you and the Medicine to the people of the World.
   
   Namaste



2. this book seems to be drawing from many different traditions in something of a surface manner when it comes to energy - the meridians, the chakras, some chi kung, even the taoist inner smile popularized by master mantak chia, runes, the I ching...what else can be thrown in? Seriously speaking, this is a good book. It is just not a very shamanic-focused book. It actually seems to be concerned with presenting some basic chi kung concepts and related practices from around the world, and identifying anything related to these as shamanism. If this is the case, why not try out the root of chinese chi kung by yang jwing-ming, and get the undiluted real deal? Or energetic anatomy by mark rich, or the book of changes and the unchanging truth by hua-ching ni? I have not read the earlier books by meadows, but I bet they are more shamanism than this later book.

1 comments about 20/20 Thinking PA.

1. Keep your mind active and help prevent Alzheimer's. I love this book and read it almost every other day. Key insights include sources on good basic organic brain food along with vitamin supplements that you can add to your physical workouts. In order to be the best and to stay competitive, keep your mind and body up to speed. Looks alone without a healthy intellect makes for good LALA land bantha fodder.

No comments about The Anatomy of Memory: An Anthology.

5 comments about Mind Games: The Aging Brain and How to Keep it Healthy.

1. While there are other books that include "Mind Games", this ground-breaking book describes ageless mental agility. In addition to the many interesting and thought-provoking games, the science behind them is fascinating.



2. We both read the entire book and did the exercises which are challenging and really give your brain a workout, and some of them can be done while driving. It seemed to be saying the brain needs exercise regularly to keep it healthy just as the body does, and the book contains numberless exercises. There is something in it for everyone.



3. This book has provided the most interesting games and exercises for practice and entertainment. It has accomplished the goal of inspiring me to continue such activities to keep my aging brain healthy. Positive results from having read it are already noticed. However, this book is more than a book of games. The chapters which involve the development, styles of learning, and processes of the brain are presented in most understandable an dmeaningful ways.



4. The authors blended together (in eloquent prose) concepts, strategies, and techniques to sharpen the mind. This book is not merely one to read, but a book to study and review periodically. It contains valuable information that one needs, and should know about the human brain. The authors did their research and it shows. They combined substance, style, and wit in presenting their imformation in a manner that makes the material "unforgettable". If you are looking for a gift that just about anyone can benefit from, this is it! It was a terrific gift I gave myself!



5. The authors blended together (in eloquent prose) concepts, strategies and techniques to sharpen the mind. This book is not merely one to read, but a book to study and review periodically. It contains valuable information that one needs, and should know about the human brain. The authors did their research and it shows. They combined substance, style, and wit in presenting their information in a manner that makes the material "unforgettable". If you are looking for a gift that just about anyone can benefit from, this is it! It was a terrific gift I gave myself!

5 comments about Learn to Remember.

1. This book covers how our mind and memory works, then goes on to explain several workable techniques on memorization. I thought it did a great job of covering these topics, and was very readable. I read it in one evening (it's only 160 pages long, and includes lots of pretty drawings).

   The book is written by Dominic O'Brien, a noted memorization wizard. But it was interesting that the copyright to the book went to the publisher. This is common for technical books in the computer field... where the publisher finds a hot topic and directs an author to write to their specifications. But I believe this format to be unusual in the memorization field.

   The answer is found in the front cover where I discovered that there is a "Learn to ..." series put out by the publisher. As such, this book probably follows a format for that series. This format is very well done, but unfortunately reflects the comments made by an earlier reviewer: there is (or might be) more information on memory in the author's other books.

   Regardless of all this backround info, I am happy I bought this book. And, I think this book updates some of the techniques that I've seen elsewhere.

   John Dunbar
   Sugar Land, TX




2. I purchased this book along with six other memory and fast-reading books. This one stands out because it is extremely well organized. Each chapter is divided into sections that are typically two pages long. In most cases, each section has a sidebar or one complete page dedicated to either an exercise or a case example. This book is a joy to read, because it is written in a straightforward style and is beautifully illustrated.

   It is organized into six chapters.
   1. A brief history of memory (greeks, romans and modern times)
   2. How memory works
   3. How to improve your memory
   4. Discovering memory techniques
   5. Memory techniques for everyday life
   6. Gain fulfillment through memory

   The second chapter tells you how neurotransmitters, axons, dendrites, left and right brain, brainwaves, short and long term memory, sleep, drugs and aging work and affect your memory.

   The third chapter tells you how important the elements of imagination, association, location, concentration, observation, repetition and health are to improving your memory.

   The fourth chapter explains the techniques themselves in proper learning order - mnemonics, visual pegs, story, journey (the most powerful method for me), dominic system, number-shape system, mind-maps.

   The fifth chapter applies the techniques to everyday life and tells you which ones are better suited to which problems.

   The last chapter elaborates on why memory improvement is not just an exercise in itself to acquire robotic memory. Rather it tells you how your life can be enriched by keeping your mind young and how to cope with life's demands and past memories. This is one of the chapters I enjoyed most.

   As a conclusion, I recommend this little jewel for many reasons. First, it covers the subject very broadly - it does not just give you short recipes, it is a complete treatise on memory. It is a mini memory encyclopedia - the topic is condensed in 160 pages.

   Second, it is really a marvelous book, the best book I have read on this subject and quite probably one of the most valuable ones I have gotten ever for my life. It is one of these books you keep in a preferred corner in your bookshelf.

   Third, it is truly useful. Although there may be more memory techniques, the ones in this book are the most important ones and are more than enough to keep you busy memorizing.

   Fourth, it eliminates the common belief that memory deteriorates with age. It actually worsens with LACK OF USE. You will learn that memory is like a muscle - the more you use it the better it gets. I got this book because I was determined to work on keeping my mind young "before it is too late". I discovered that it is never too late and, unlike muscles, the mind is the most powerful and malleable muscle of all. You just have to keep it busy with many interests.

   Enjoy !!!




3. very disappointing, as well as boring!!
   generalities, of little help.
   have seen simple, cheap books with better ideas and tips.
   the writer might be a grandmaster , but this will not help other
   creatures.
   "forget" about this book.



4. I was very excited when I bought this book, but when I opened it, I was a little disappointed.
   
   Pros:
   1.Tells you new methods to memorize
   2.Gives you an understanding of brain function
   3.Colorful pictures on some pages
   4.Not a long read
   
   Cons
   1. Does not have enough exercises
   2. Reads too much like a novel
   3. Teaching approach not effective
   
   I will admit I did not practice it that much, but I believe the motivation was lacking because the book did not compel me enough with more examples and exercises.



5. I read this book twice, and every time I read it I discover something new, This book come with a good amount of exercises, the lecture is interesting and keep you coming back for more. this is the type of book is the. You Must Have IT!

5 comments about The Amazing Memory Kit: Everything You Need to Improve Your Memory!.

1. I have O'Brien's audio program, and it outlines the same thing. Overall, his program is very effective. The kit includes a booklet , 4 memory maps and a deck of 100 practice cards.
   
   I found the booklet to be the most valuable part of the kit. As for the memory maps and practice cards, I don't think they are necessary. My advice: read the book and remember the key concepts, but develop your own memory map so it is personal and more memorable to you. And if you need practice, why not just apply it to your everyday life, instead of using random and trival objects on a deck of cards.
   
   The booklet has the key concepts of his audio programs inside in a concise and effective format.
   
   His programs no doubt works, but only if you put effort in to it and apply the techinque in your everyday life. If you are in need of improved memory, this is a recommended buy.



2. After reading the book and using one of O'Brien's maps, I was able to memorize 25 objects from 25 cards in less than 3 minutes. I then constructed my own memory map and repeated using a different 25 objects/cards again in less than 3 minutes. While using O'Brien's map works, you have to memorize the map first. This can take a while. Making up your own map does not take long and is much easier to visualize and use.
   
   I find this information valuable for study and memorization of information I need for my work. This kit is a good place to begin memory management.



3. I agree with the poster, the book is the best part of the kit.
   The memory maps are ok, again the other reviewer said you have to memorize the maps first. It gives you an idea of the types of journeys you could use though.
   
   I only had one gripe with the cards although very minor, for using the dominic system the cards went up in 1,2,3 instead of 01,02,03. Like i said it was very minor, i think it would of been good to have 2 decks and have the backs of the number cards blank so you could write your own Peoples names on the back, just an idea. I made my own out of flash cards anyway which was cheap enough.



4. I had previously read Dominic O'Brien's book "How to Develop a Perfect Memory". While his Journey Method sounded very useful, I was had a very difficult time trying to visualize a journey around my house or neighborhood. This kit was just what I needed. The book is very good and very attractive. And the memory maps served as excellent examples of how to create a memory journey. I found I could memorize one of the 25 stage maps in 10 or 15 minutes and immediately use it to remember 25 flash cards.
   
   I don't know why it is that the memory maps he provides are easier for me to remember than real locations I'm familiar with; perhaps it is because they have very specific locations which are free from the clutter and distractions of real locations.
   
   I've also tried the peg word systems described by Lorayne and Buzan. While these are useful I find the journey method much easier, faster, and more fun to use. You should try this if you haven't yet, you'll be amazed by the power of your own memory!



5. Excellent product, if you don't have my issues, as discussed below
   Memorizing is clearly about short term memory. My problem, which is why I'm exploring this product, is a learning disability affecting short term memory.
   Because of my 'sequencing' problem, images are not always easy to keep in sequence. I have no doubt that if you have no problem with sequencing, this product will increase your short term memory by 50% easily. I'm not quite so lucky, I have to put a lot more work into it.