A NEW SCIENTIST BOOK OF THE YEAR

Our lives are ruled by one particular group of chemicals.

These are the hormones and neurotransmitters that regulate and drive our brains. Overloaded looks at the roles these chemicals play in all aspects of our life experiences, from how we make decisions, who we love and what we remember to basic survival drives such as hunger, fear and sleep.

Author Ginny Smith explores what these tiny molecules do, meeting scientists at the cutting-edge of brain chemistry research who are uncovering unexpected connections between these crucial chemicals.

What roles do cortisol and adrenaline play in memory formation? What does dopamine do? And how do hormones affect the trajectory of our romantic relationships? In this eye-opening exploration of the remarkable world of neurotransmitters, Overloaded unveils the chemicals inside each of us that touch every facet of our lives.

Ginny Smith is a science writer and presenter with expertise in psychology and neuroscience. She has a talent for making the complex comprehensible, and a passion for bringing her love of brain science to audiences around the world.

Ginny founded Braintastic! Science, which produces spectacular science shows and resources to help young people understand and get the best out of their brains. She is regularly found on stage at schools, festivals and events, and relishes answering children's questions about the brain. Ginny also produces content about the brain for adults. She teaches at the University of Cambridge's Institute of Continuing Education, and is a regular blogger and video presenter for the Cosmic Shambles Network, alongside some of the biggest names in science. She hosts the Psychological Society's Psych Crunch Podcast, and shares her skills as a science communication trainer and consultant.

ginnysmithscience.com / @GinnySmithSci