Sunday Times Book of the Year

This is a book that explores how someone feels who is exceptional - and what it takes to get there. Why can some people achieve great things while others do not succeed, no matter how hard they try? What are the secrets to long life and happiness? How dynamic is a person?

In this inspiring book, New Scientist's Managing Editor, Rowan Hooper, takes us on a journey through the peaks of human achievement. We meet some of the world's finest minds, from Nobel-winning scientists to Booker Prize-winning authors. We meet individuals whose ability to focus has made the difference between a world record and death, as well as international opera stars. We explore the transcendent experience of ultramarathon runners and meet people who have recovered from near-death, along with those who have shown extraordinary courage and found happiness in the most unexpected ways.

Based on interviews with a wide range of superhumans, as well as those who study them, Hooper examines the science of top dynamics, assessing the role of genetic factors combined with the legendary 10,000 hours of practice.

For anyone who has ever felt they could do something extraordinary in their life, for those who simply want to succeed, and for anyone interested in incredible human stories, Superhuman is a book that must be read.