This book is a wonderful introduction into the history of neurosciences and our understanding of the brain. It is an excellent read for the physician, scientist, or brain enthusiast. It is easy to follow and well organized. Finger captures the excitement of the important discoveries about the brain and diseases of the brain. I highly recommend this book for anyones shelf who collects history of medicine books.

The history of brain study is absolutely fascinating. It is a wonderful thought to give an account of this branch of knowledge through the lives of geniuses who gave birth to various aspects of our modern understanding of how the brain and the nervous system work. Dr. Finger's book is comprehensive, scientifically sound and well-researched, to say the very least. Unfortunately, this noble project is somewhat compromised by a rather stilted narration. There is very little thrill and suspense in the way the author recounts his story, and some of his comments are too simplistic and naive. Given the complex subject and the fact that the reader should be rather knowledgeable anyway to enjoy the book, this looks like patronizing or just ineptness. A pity.

Otherwise, a wealth of information.

this book is not a medical reference or textbook. it is, however, an excellent historical exploration of brain and neuroscience. i loved it! i am not a doctor, but an historian, and my curiosity on the subject was satiated. i can now hold up an impressive end of a conversation regarding all things neurological. this book is for the general public, and all those who want to learn more about civilization, anthropology, biology, science, etc...
highly recommended.

As the author of a history of psychology book, I bought this book for the information that I'll be able to work into my next revision. Although I confess I haven't read it completely, I've enjoyed the parts I have read and look forward to completing it. Many of the characters in the history of psychology are fascinating, and this is also true of characters in the history of neuroscience, which is what Finger's writing about. He's done an excellent job in bringing his subjects to life. Strongly recommend.