Popular author Taylor Clark draws on cutting-edge research in this enlightening exploration of stress-and how to tackle it constructively. Using such divergent examples as Russian sub commanders and game show contestants, Clark shows that most people experience stress the same way. Those who understand how to accept it without freezing can accomplish what needs to get done. "The author makes some shrewd observations [and] he really knows how to write, too: the book is informative, engaging, and, in quite a few places, funny."-Booklist
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"A little uneven in places, but overall a fascinating look into how our conscious minds can be hijacked by mental processes we aren't even aware of. Survival, and what our brains decide is a threat, and the physical reactions that are triggered by that threat, are more urgent priorities than what our conscious mind is thinking - and so we don't really understand what's going on when we panic. New advances in brain scanning technology and physiology are starting to help explain what goes on when an OMFG-I'm-gonna-die threat (real or perceived) is detected, and how you can try to get control back when your automatic threat-response system is jumping on the panic button."
— Librarian (5 out of 5 stars)
" A longish New Yorker article book - lots of fun anecdotes. A good one if you want to think about fear, anxiety, stress & how to deal with them. "
— Diane, 1/29/2014" I am drawn to books like this, something that provides a wealth of knowledge written in a fun and snarky way. Nerve didn't disappoint in the snarky department. There is a wide range of studies about how your nerves work, why some people get panic attacks while others attack the issues with grace and never break a sweat. I am one of those that can't speak in public to save my life, but my son thrives on it. The book explains that we are all wired differently to react to situations that occur daily. There are also a series of steps that help those with anxiety riddled lives to help control the problem. If you enjoy Mary Roach, you will love this one! "
— Mary, 1/26/2014" Written with real-life, wweekly magazine experience. A survivor of forced dry, dildonic incursion, the author has a good handle on managing fear. Still not beyond middle-age, Taylor Clark will have years to deal with the stress of inexorable reciprocation. In a way, that can augment growth as a writer, certainly his posterior tract will be broadened, whether by inflamed duress or gentle impalement. Get the other book he did about coffee, too "
— Die, 1/20/2014" Fantastic- borrowed from the library - so helpful I'm buying a copy. A great book for fellow scaredy cats ;-) "
— Susan, 1/3/2014" Not only does this book provide insight into the science of fear and ways to sucessfully manage our reactions, but it does so in an interesting way. Clark is a journalist, so his thorough researching skills and entertaining writing make for an excellent read. Definitely recommended for anyone looking for a better way to deal with stress. "
— Emily, 12/31/2013" I can honestly say that this book about the psychology of fear was fascinating. Unlike the textbooks I read in college for my Psychology minor, each topic is illustrated by real-life examples that turns a possibly dry discussion into an emotional rollercoaster. The author's intellectual wit make for a fun, interesting read. "
— RosalÃa, 12/25/2013" Pure fascinating read! It was also comforting at the same time it was empowering. "
— Katrinka, 12/22/2013" It's not about getting rid of the butterflies, but getting them to fly in formation. Brilliant. "
— Rosemary, 12/14/2013" This book for anyone who has ever choked under pressure...such a fascinating subject...well-written. "
— Jenny, 12/11/2013" The amygdala, fear, clutching, cool: interesting reading but nothing ground-breaking. "
— Lori, 11/25/2013" Well written but I thought this book would be more about how to have poise under pressure, and not stories about poise under pressure. I didn't learn any tricks but I was happily amused. "
— Sunny, 10/8/2013" Great book! Great way to start the new year off with inspiration on how to face my anxiety and stress. "
— Kerri, 8/20/2013" Clark gives an interesting look into why our fears cause us to choke in times of stress and gives some helpful hints (and additional readings) to help prevent it. "
— Maggie, 7/22/2013" A great, well-written summary of research into fear with a good collection of well-crafted stories and examples. My favorite kind of nonfiction. "
— Kimberly, 4/20/2013" Giving the full 5 stars because I am so thankful when I have my hands on a book that is actually well researched, obvious thought and effort put in to rhythm, well written turns of phrase and a non myopic viewpoint. Great read, with a fascinating history throughout.Energized writing style. "
— T.B., 4/23/2012" It was pretty good. Helped me understand that fear is not a bad thing! Gave me new perspective. Got a little bored with all of the stories. "
— Tracie, 1/29/2012" I did not read Nerves of Steel, I read this, you stupid website.<br/><br/>The science-based approach distinguishes this book from the usual bullshit.<br/> "
— Paul, 9/19/2011" An interesting and engaging tour through the worlds of fear and anxiety. Not a self-help book by any means, it focuses on stories of (largely, famous) people who suffer from some dimension of anxiety and uses the stories to tie the anxiety to the brain and body systems affected. "
— Brad, 8/14/2011" It was pretty good. Helped me understand that fear is not a bad thing! Gave me new perspective. Got a little bored with all of the stories. "
— Tracie, 7/20/2011" Interesting read about the psychology behind anxiety, stress, and fear. Includes lots of examples of performance artists and military personnel. Also talks about how to work with fear in order to achieve goals. "
— Leslie, 7/6/2011" I really learned a lot from this book: <br/>what happens in the brain when we are afraid<br/>tips on how to handle fears instead of avoiding them<br/>fears are manageable<br/>Very informative! "
— Linda, 6/12/2011" A great, well-written summary of research into fear with a good collection of well-crafted stories and examples. My favorite kind of nonfiction. "
— Kimberly, 6/2/2011" This book will really strike a little fear as you read about snakes and tsunami’s! I goes through lots of case studies and gives advice on overcoming fears. It’s kind of like reading a series of magazine articles. "
— Carol, 5/27/2011" A longish New Yorker article book - lots of fun anecdotes. A good one if you want to think about fear, anxiety, stress & how to deal with them. "
— Diane, 3/22/2011Rich Orlow is a film, television, and voice actor. Among his audiobook narrations are The Outsider by Jimmy Connors, House Rules by Jodi Picoult, and Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger.