Why We Dream: The Transformative Power of Our Nightly Journey

Dreams matter, argues Robb (New York magazine's "Science of Us" column). Beginning with an exploration of the importance of dreams throughout history and across cultures, the author then moves on to examine the relatively new science of dreams. As a society, we are obsessed with sleep—how to get enough, the quality of sleep—but we have neglected the importance of our dreams. With an accessible writing style and well-researched material, Robb explores their power. For example, dreams play an important role in the learning process. When we learn something new and then dream about it, the knowledge is further cemented. Additionally, dreams provide a link to creativity; a means to work through issues of anxiety, grief, or trauma; and can even be used as a medical diagnostic tool. An advocate and practitioner of lucid dreaming, Robb explains how to do it and the potential benefits one can derive from guiding the action of one's dreams.