Deep Play

by Diane Ackerman

Book Overview

The national bestselling author of A Natural History of the Senses tackles the realm of creativity, by exploring one of the most essential aspects of our characters: the ability to play.

"Deep play" is that more intensified form of play that puts us in a rapturous mood and awakens the most creative, sentient, and joyful aspects of our inner selves. As Diane Ackerman ranges over a panoply of artistic, spiritual, and athletic activities, from spiritual rapture through extreme sports, we gain a greater sense of what it means to be "in the moment" and totally, transcendentally human. Keenly perceived and written with poetic exuberance, Deep Play enlightens us by revealing the manifold ways we can enhance our lives.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0679771352
• ISBN13: 9780679771357
• Release Date: August 2000
• Publisher: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.58 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.3" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

Love this woman

Ackerman is like that great friend of yours that is always throwing interesting facts your way to inspire you. She is so smart and at the same time she is playful and fun. After reading any of her works, I always find myself looking at the world a little closer. Enjoy this book- it should be on the shelf of every creative artist.

For Creative Women Everywhere

As a creative woman and professional writer, this is one of the best books I have read on creativity. It is about learning to find time for play-- something we are strongly discouraged to do as we grow up and become adults. Diane Ackerman teaches us to see that we do play, and encourages us to nurture that play. Play is a time of learning, and a time of relaxing and letting go. It is revitalizing, and allows us to refresh and find new insights, which ultimately leads us to become creative. Ackerman guides us through her personal experiences with examples that enlighten, delight and are enjoyable to read.

Deeply Moving

Diane Ackerman brings forth yet another stunning lyrical prose that is sure to delight. This book is in itself a 'Deep Play' for not only the author but the reader as well, a book that is meant for enjoyment and relaxation. Ackerman is indeed a stylist in her own right.

As always, a pleasure

I found Deep Play to be a fairly quick read, and enjoyed it immensely. This was not a terribly esoteric read-I actually expected more "science" behind the human need for deep play. However, Ackerman's skill with the written word carries her through here, and the book was a delight regardless.

Love Diane Ackerman!

I always eagerly await the next Diane Ackerman book. This one doesn't disappoint. I will use it in my classes--it's a wonderful look at the way creativity works (or, rather: plays!) Fascinating details, stories layered in stories. Highly recommend.