Book Review: Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life

By Dacher Keltner

Rating: 4.5 / 5

In Awe, psychologist and researcher Dacher Keltner explores one of the most powerful and overlooked emotions in human experience. Drawing from decades of research, personal stories, and interviews from around the world, he makes a compelling case that awe is not simply a pleasant feeling. It is a biological and psychological force that shapes how we think, connect, and find meaning.

Keltner describes awe as the emotion we experience when we encounter something vast that challenges our understanding of the world. While we often associate awe with grand experiences such as standing beneath a mountain range or gazing into a star-filled sky, the book reminds us that awe is available in everyday life. It can be found in nature, music, spiritual experiences, collective gatherings, acts of courage and kindness, and even moments of deep connection with another person.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its blend of science and storytelling. Keltner explores how awe can quiet the constant focus on ourselves, increase feelings of connection, reduce stress, and promote generosity and well-being. He argues that awe helps us step outside our individual concerns and reconnect with something larger than ourselves.

Criticisms

While Awe is insightful and deeply moving, it is not without limitations. Some readers may find the book repetitive, with similar themes revisited throughout multiple chapters. Others may wish for more practical guidance on how to cultivate awe in everyday life. The book is more reflective than prescriptive. In addition, portions of the narrative draw heavily from Keltner's personal experiences, which may feel more memoir-like than some readers expect from a science-focused book.

Why PEAKMD Recommends It

At PEAKMD, we spend a great deal of time talking about exercise, nutrition, sleep, body composition, and longevity. Those things matter. But health is bigger than biomarkers.

One of the central ideas of our North Framework is that a thriving life requires attention to all four directions:

NORTH: Purpose & Alignment

SOUTH: Body & Vitality

EAST: Mind & Presence

WEST: Connection & Belonging

Awe touches every one of them.

Research suggests awe can reduce stress, quiet the mind, foster connection, and increase our sense of meaning. A walk beneath towering trees, the sound of a river moving around obstacles, a powerful piece of music, or witnessing an act of courage can remind us that we are part of something larger than our daily concerns.

In a culture obsessed with optimization, Awe offers a different perspective. It reminds us that a good life is not built solely through discipline, productivity, and performance. It is also built through wonder, presence, beauty, and connection.

This book has helped shape many of the experiences we offer at PEAKMD, from our forest bathing walks and community hikes to our broader mission of helping people cultivate not just a longer life, but a richer one.

Because longevity is not simply about adding years to life.

It's about adding life to years.