Publishers Weekly
10/11/2021
Proclaiming that “wonder is not simply for kids” but is instead “radical grown-up stuff,” Davis’s buoyant debut prescribes a “de-centering” of self that allows what he’s named the six facets of wonder—openness, curiosity, bewilderment, hope, connection, and admiration—to flow. Journaling is encouraged for readers to record moments like the sight of a river or reflections on thoughts about a leaf. He posits that in an age of uncertainty, it’s human nature to shy away from displaying weakness, but that “cynicism” or otherwise being closed to new ideas amounts to costly “rigid thinking” that rules out discovering new ways to approach problems. Davis urges the acceptance of fear as part of the process of finding success, offering such examples as Cristian Fracassi, a scientist whose willingness to forgo his bias about something deemed nearly impossible—creating a ventilator valve on a 3D printer—has saved hundreds of lives. Though, curiously, one disappointing aspect of the work is when Davis displays his own bias against solitary-seeking personalities (he refers to himself as a “reformed introvert” and champions joining “packs” of peers to benefit from help and encouragement of community). But for those who need an injection of hope in an overwhelming world, Davis offers a well-drawn road map to discovering wonder and, quite possibly, joy. (Nov.)
From the Publisher
[a] buoyant debut...for those who need an injection of hope in an overwhelming world, Davis offers a well-drawn road map to discovering wonder and, quite possibly, joy.” —Publishers Weekly
“In our experience, curious wonder is the foundation of lifelong growth. It allows us to retain a beginner’s mind even as our wisdom expands. It permits our hearts and minds to grow stronger, not just older, every day. Tracking Wonder is an invaluable guide for honing our curious minds and growing into our strongest selves.” —Marc and Angel Chernoff, New York Times bestselling authors of Getting Back to Happy, 1000+ Little Things Happy Successful People Do Differently, and 1000+ Little Habits of Happy, Successful Relationships
“We’re born in a state of wonder, abandon it in the name of adulting, then spend the rest of our lives aching to get back to it. Tracking Wonder is a wake-up call, bundled with a road map home to that elusive place inhabited by the potential for serendipity, surprise, and magic in every nook, corner, and conversation.” —Jonathan Fields, award-winning author of Sparked and host of the Good Life Project podcast
“In these most complex times, Jeffrey Davis’s book will feel like an epiphany in its reading, opening your mind and heart to that most vital of human strengths—wonder.” —Dacher Keltner, PhD, professor of psychology, UC Berkeley, and founding director of the Greater Good Science Center
APRIL 2022 - AudioFile
Consultant, speaker, and trainer Jeffrey Davis uses captivating stories and imagery to show how anyone can learn to reawaken their childhood openness to life’s promise. His consistent vocal clarity and slow pacing make his ideas clear, and after performing the first few chapters a bit stiffly, he finds a rhythm and spontaneity that sound very much in sync with his message. He wants listeners to rediscover their youthful curiosity and creative fearlessness. The stories he draws from his own life, the lives of others, and from literature are finely drawn and quite touching. With vocal sincerity that pairs nicely with his provocative exercises and heartfelt advice, this is an affecting listening experience that should improve the life of anyone who hears it. T.W. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine
