Praise for Why We Dream 'After reading this gripping and deeply researched book, you'll never again be tempted to dismiss the surreal narratives of our night-time lives as trivial or meaningless. Blending centuries of cultural history with cutting-edge science, Alice Robb makes a compelling case for dreams - as sources of wisdom and creativity, as a vital ingredient in psychological health and as a portal to the strange and fascinating worlds lurking within yourself and everyone you know.' Oliver Burkeman, author of The Antidote ' Why We Dream is a delightful and informative tour of cutting-edge findings in dream research. Alice Robb deftly summarizes the evidence for reliable links between dreams and creativity, physical symptoms, problem-solving, emotional balance and well-being in general. She explores the promise of lucid dreaming and shows why dreams are finally emerging from the decades-long neglect of an ill-informed public.' Patrick McNamara, associate professor of neurology, Boston University 'Who knew that the netherworld of sleep contained such psychological depths and biological purposes? A thrilling account of the wayward history of dream research, Why We Dream opens a door into the creative life of dreaming, ensuring that you will never fall asleep again without a sense of the vision-filled journey ahead.' Daphne Merkin, critic, novelist and author of This Close to Happy ' Why We Dream is an illuminating, surprising, often astounding look at the purpose and power of dreams. I hadn't even finished by the time I was convinced to start my own dream journal.

This is a beautiful work of science writing that will change the way you think of your own nightly voyage.' David Epstein, bestselling author of The Sports Gene.