- Reviewed in:
Publishers Weekly,
page
.
- Review Date:
2011-12-05
- Reviewer:
Staff
Is love addictive? What roles do oxytocin, dopamine, serotonin, and testosterone play in our lives? What does the brain tell us about homosexuality? What parts of the brain control attraction, parental love, and faithfulness in relationships? Sukel leaves no stone unturned as she delves into the complex, cerebral world of relationships. Frequently citing both human MRI studies and animal research on dogs, monkeys, and monogamous prairie voles, Sukel has thoroughly researched this fascinating subject, examining even the most delicate topics—such as her own experience as a subject in an MRI clinical study of orgasm—with a frank, clinical tone, peppered with anecdotal stories and occasional humor. Although "here is no clever playbook for navigating love's messier situations," readers may find that science can explain some of their own experiences in attraction, parenting, and even heartbreak. Sukel's background in psychology allows her to discuss highly technical topics in a way that will be accessible to a broad audience, including armchair scientists and sociology buffs. Agent: David Black Agency (Jan.)
