Author

Will Storr

📖 Overview

Will Storr is a British journalist and author known for his investigative long-form writing and books examining human psychology, belief systems, and storytelling. His work spans both journalism and narrative non-fiction, with regular contributions to publications including The Guardian, The Sunday Times, and The New Yorker. Storr's most widely recognized books include "The Science of Storytelling" (2019), which analyzes the psychological foundations of narrative, and "Selfie: How We Became So Self-Obsessed and What It's Doing to Us" (2017), an examination of the cultural history of individualism. His 2013 book "The Heretics: Adventures with the Enemies of Science" investigates why people hold strong beliefs that contradict scientific evidence. The author has received several awards for his journalism, including the AIB Award for Best Investigative Documentary and the One World Press Award. His work frequently combines elements of psychology, neuroscience, and anthropology to explore human behavior and cultural phenomena. His writing style is characterized by deep research and immersive reporting, often placing himself within the communities and situations he documents. Storr also teaches storytelling through masterclasses and workshops at institutions worldwide.

👀 Reviews

Readers praise Storr's investigative depth and ability to explain complex psychological concepts through engaging narratives. Many note his skill at weaving research with personal experiences, particularly in "The Science of Storytelling." Readers value: - Clear explanations of neuroscience and psychology - Practical writing advice backed by research - Personal involvement in investigations - Balanced treatment of controversial subjects Common criticisms: - Some sections become too technical - Occasional repetition of key points - Personal anecdotes sometimes overshadow main arguments Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: - "The Science of Storytelling": 4.24/5 (5,800+ ratings) - "Selfie": 4.1/5 (2,300+ ratings) - "The Heretics": 3.9/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: - "The Science of Storytelling": 4.6/5 (1,100+ ratings) - "Selfie": 4.4/5 (200+ ratings) One reader noted: "Storr's immersive approach puts you right there with him as he explores complex ideas." Another wrote: "Sometimes gets lost in scientific minutiae, but worth pushing through."

📚 Books by Will Storr

The Science of Storytelling (2019) An examination of storytelling techniques through the lens of psychology, neuroscience, and evolutionary theory.

Selfie: How We Became So Self-Obsessed and What It's Doing to Us (2017) A historical and cultural analysis of how Western society developed its focus on individualism and self-identity.

The Unpersuadables: Adventures with the Enemies of Science (2014) An investigation into why people hold strong beliefs that contradict scientific evidence, featuring interviews with various skeptics and believers.

The Hunger and the Howling of Killian Lone (2013) A dark fiction novel about a troubled chef's apprentice in London who discovers supernatural cooking abilities.

Will Storr vs. The Supernatural (2006) A first-person account of the author's global journey investigating paranormal phenomena and meeting various believers.

The Status Game: On Social Position and How We Use It (2021) An analysis of how status-seeking behavior influences human social interactions and shapes society.

The Science of Storytelling: Writing Characters That Feel Real (2022) A practical guide applying psychological principles to character development in fiction writing.

👥 Similar authors

Malcolm Gladwell writes about psychology, social science, and human behavior through narrative journalism. His books examine why people think and act in certain ways, similar to Storr's analytical approach to human nature.

Michael Lewis investigates complex topics through character-driven narratives that reveal larger truths about systems and society. His journalistic style combines deep research with storytelling techniques that make difficult subjects accessible.

Jon Ronson explores fringe beliefs, psychological phenomena, and human behavior through first-person investigative journalism. His work examines the peculiarities of human nature and modern culture through direct encounters with his subjects.

Mary Roach researches scientific and historical topics through immersive reporting and primary sources. She presents complex information through narrative-driven investigations that connect technical subject matter to human experience.

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