Sex Sleep Eat Drink Dream: a day in the life of your body - Softcover

Ackerman, Jennifer

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1921640162 ISBN 13: 9781921640162

Publisher: Scribe UK, 2013

Synopsis

The acclaimed science writer Jennifer Ackerman lends her keen eye and lively voice to this marvellous exploration of the human body. Taking us through a typical day, from the arousal of the senses in the morning to the reverie of sleep and dreams, Ackerman reveals the human form as we've never seen it: busy, cunning, and miraculous. Advances in genetics and medical imaging have allowed us to peer more deeply inside ourselves than ever before, and one of the most amazing recent discoveries is that we are intensely rhythmic creatures. The human body is like a clock - actually, an entire shop of clocks - measuring out the seconds, minutes, days, and seasons of life. Weaving pieces of her own life with that of Everyman, Ackerman shows the importance of synchronising our actions with our biological rhythms - and how defying them can cause us real harm. We learn the best time of day to drink a cocktail, take a nap, run a race, give a presentation, and take medication, along with a host of other curious facts, such as why you succumb to a cold and your spouse doesn t, even though you've both been exposed to the same sick child. Did you know that you can tell time in your sleep? Or that up to half of the calories you consume can be burned off simply by fidgeting? That women have more nightmares than men? That tuna, sardines, and walnuts may ease depression? At once entertaining and deeply practical, this fascinating book will make you think of your body in an entirely new way.

About this title

Product Description

In a Kabul ravaged by violence and corruption, Murder Squad boss Osama Kandar still believes in integrity, a code of honour, and loyalty to old friends. But the apparent suicide of a businessman called Wali Wadi changes everything. As Kandar's routine investigation starts to suggest murder, the Minister for Security attempts to foil his every move, motivating him even more to solve the alleged crime. Meanwhile, a Swiss-based secret organisation known as The Entity is doing everything in its power to terminate Kandar's investigation, even if it means putting an end to his life and those of innocent civilians. Wali Wadi's murderer must not be found, whatever the cost. At the same time, Entity analyst Nick Snee is looking for a man named Leonard Mandrake, who has information that The Entity is desperate for. When Snee discovers that Mandrake's information is related to Wali Wadi's death, he joins forces with Kandar to find out what everybody is after, and why so many lives are being destroyed in the wake of the Mandrake Affair. What they discover is far more important than either could have possibly imagined.

Review

Her fascinating story of the body s complex workings and how they are driven by a daily rhythm will inspire even the most workaholic reader to consider tweaking their schedule to account for the best time to exercise, say, or even maximise their alcohol tolerance. An engaging, eloquent and accessible book. --New Scientist

Ackerman's illuminating and hospitable book helps ensure that the inner life of our bodies will receive its fair share of wonderment --New York Times

About this edition

• Publisher: Scribe UK
• Publication date: 2013
• ISBN 10: 1921640162
• ISBN 13: 9781921640162
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 272