Anatomy of the Soul

 

Anatomy of the Soul, by Curt Thompson, MD, gives readers a compelling look at the connection between the structures of our brains and our relationships—with each other and with God.  Thompson provides readers with an interesting scriptural and scientific perspective based upon his role as a practicing psychiatrist and his faith as a Christian.

In the book, Thompson explains the structure of our brains and how that structure impacts our relationships and our faith in God.  Though the book is scientific, it is written in an engaging style that seeks to educate readers in a compassionate way.  The book moves from a look at how our brains impact our own views of life, to how it impacts our relationships, to how it impacts our faith, and, finally, to how we can use this information in our professions.   Each chapter builds upon the information in previous chapters, making the book easier to comprehend than one might think.  In addition, Thompson frequently incorporates stories to illustrate his points, which both creates a connection to readers and helps us relate the science to our own life circumstances. 

Explaining how our culture tends to value right-brained, logical thinking over emotion, Thompson exposes the flaws in this viewpoint and illustrates how not paying attention to our emotions can cause ruptures in our relationships with others and with God.  Using Scripture and case studies, Thompson shows how paying attention to our emotions and really seeking to know and be known by others can open up doors of communication and drastically change our lives.  His research and experience can have a life-changing impact on all readers, but, as a parent, I found his book particularly convicting, as he frequently references the impact our own stories and understanding of the world can impact our children.  

This is a book you will want to read more than once.  It will make you think, stimulate conversations, and, hopefully, help you to repair relationships and move into a deeper understanding of the life God intends for you to lead.  

Note:  Tyndale House provided a complimentary copy of this book for me to review.