March book review – A path through the jungle

This month’s review is Professor Steve Peters’ second adult book, A path through the jungle.

Peters returns to build on his previous conceptual framework of the Chimp, the Human, and the Computer functions of the brain (see February book review for more) in this new programme which is designed to help the reader ‘develop robustness and resilience’. 

This book continues in Peters’ direct yet reassuring tone, uses clear explanations and diagrams throughout, and follows a well-defined structure by dividing the book into 8 Stages comprising of 2-4 Units each. 

The key difference between this and his previous book is that this one provides neuroscientific information and references to support his concepts so it’s ideal for anyone looking to really understand what’s happening from a neurological perspective.

Consequently, there are scientific terms used throughout such as amygdala, hypothalamus, and prefrontal cortex. 

If this really isn’t your thing and you only want to understand how your Chimp, Human, and Computer are working together – or against each other – on a day-to-day basis then you could stick with Peters’ first book. However, Peters provides clear definitions and explanations so it could be worth dipping your toe!

One of the main strengths of A path through the jungle is the clarity with which Peters writes both in terms of content and structure.

Clarity teamed with distinct colours and boxes bring different aspects to the reader’s attention which is an effective way to keep the content stimulating, not always easy with neuroscience!

Within the 8 stages are units which all follow the same format which creates a safe predictability for the reader. 

Each unit starts with a short comment which sets expectations, informative descriptions and illustrations, written examples to help the reader understand the translation of theoretical content into practice, scientific points, reminders, and exercises which are all centred on reinforcing the learning objective of the unit. 

My only critique is that this book doesn’t really tell the reader anything new if you’ve already read The chimp paradox as this book mainly builds on the Chimp, Human, and Computer constructs with the support of scientific evidence. 

So, although I would recommend this book, I’d say you could choose between The chimp paradox and A path through the jungle depending on whether or not you’d like the scientific information.