The Real Work by Adam Gopnik review – the art of expertise
The New Yorker writer explores what it takes to get good at something, from baking and boxing to mastering his own mind
You Are Not Alone by Cariad Lloyd review – the mourning after
In this moving and funny meditation on loss, the host of the award-winning podcast Griefcast argues that shared stories are an effective response to death
Writer Robert Douglas-Fairhurst: ‘The less the body works, the more you appreciate any bit that still does’
The writer and professor of English literature on being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and the more unexpected ways his life has been transformed
The Gospel of Wellness by Rina Raphael review – bee-sting therapy, jade eggs: why do some women buy it?
A reformed wellness addict isn’t entirely convincing as she constructs a grand theory to explain some bizarre behaviour
In brief: The Cloisters; My Trade Is Mystery; Sweat: A History of Exercise – review
A tense whodunnit unfolds in New York’s Metropolitan museum; poet Carl Phillips imparts life lessons for all; and a study of our need to keep in shape
Sensational: A New Story of Our Senses by Ashley Ward review
A vivid exploration of the science behind sight, hearing, touch and smell that shows us we should take nothing for granted
A Year to Change Your Mind by Dr Lucy Maddox review – a way through
Twelve month’s worth of psychological tips from someone you’d want on your team in a crisis
Body Am I by Moheb Costandi review – the new science of self-consciousness
What gives us our sense of self? A fresh take on how the brain and body are connected offers answers
Food for Life by Tim Spector review – the science of eating well
The epidemiologist and author of The Diet Myth returns with a comprehensive guide to foods that foster healthy microbiomes
In brief: The Good Drinker; The Blue Flames; Exit Stage Left – reviews
Adrian Chiles gives entertaining advice on moderation, AM Burrage’s spooky short stories get their dues and Nick Duerden tells of the tolls of pop stardom