Top reviews about SPEED READING FASTER by Jan Cisek & Susan Norman from United Kingdom and the rest of the world (Amazon, Waterstones, Barnes & Noble)
4.9/5 *****
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 3 April 2025, Verified Purchase
Category Archives: #1 Blog On Speed Reading & PhotoReading, Summaries of Books, Good Books to Speed-Read, News, Research On Speed Reading
Speed reading blog by Jan Cisek and Susan Norman from London UK. Summaries of books and good books to speed read. News, blogs and latest research on speed reading and photoreading.
Summary of The Neuroscience of Manifesting by Dr Sabina Brennan
Introduction to ManifestationManifestation, popularised through New Age texts such as The Secret, has become a cultural phenomenon. “Manifest” was the word of the year 2024. It suggests that visualising one’s desires can bring them into reality. While often dismissed as pseudoscientific, neuroscientist Dr Sabina Brennan in her book The Neuroscience of Manifesting argues that there are credible mechanisms within the brain that can make manifestation an effective psychological practice.
Watch Dr Sabina Brennan talk about her book The Neuroscience of Manifesting
Definition of Manifestation
Manifestation is the process of transforming thought into reality by visualising a goal, focusing attention on it, and taking action – in short, making things happen. Although it cannot defy physics or produce magical outcomes, it can alter behaviour and influence future experiences.
Manifestation is the process of transforming thought into reality by visualising a goal, focusing attention on it, and taking action – in short, making things happen. Although it cannot defy physics or produce magical outcomes, it can alter behaviour and influence future experiences.
The Art of Prompting in Speed Reading and AI
The Art of Prompting in Speed Reading and AI
Introduction
The word prompt has quietly but powerfully embedded itself into the fabric of human cognition and communication. It is a word that signifies readiness, guidance and stimulation, whether initiating a thought, nudging action or setting the course for a machine’s output. In the age of artificial intelligence and information overload, especially within domains such as speed reading and human computer interaction, the concept of prompting has taken on new layers of significance. This blog explores the rich history, evolving applications and scientific grounding of prompting, culminating in practical lessons for readers and prompt engineers alike.
Speed Reading in the Digital Age: Navigating Screens and Print
Speed Reading in the Digital Age: Navigating Screens and Print
In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to read efficiently is more valuable than ever. With the proliferation of digital devices, our reading habits have shifted significantly. But how does speed reading differ between screens and print materials? Let’s delve into the nuances of each medium and explore techniques to enhance reading efficiency.
Speed reading – techniques to read more quickly without significant loss of comprehension – is often touted as a way to cope with information overload. However, reading on a glowing screen can feel very different from reading ink on paper. This article explores what cognitive neuroscience tells us about reading on screens vs. print, how factors like age and education influence our reading, the efficacy of popular speed reading systems, differences in various digital reading environments, and practical strategies to improve reading speed and comprehension. By examining scientific research and expert insights, we can better navigate reading in the digital age with both speed and understanding.
Cognitive Neuroscience of Reading: Screens vs. Print
Reading is a complex cognitive task, and the medium (screen or paper) can affect how our brain processes text. Cognitive load – the mental effort required to process information – tends to be higher when reading on screens. Research shows that on-screen reading often lacks the spatial landmarks that print provides, making it harder for readers to form a “mental map” of the text (Benson, 2020). On paper, we might recall that a key detail was “near the top-left of a left-hand page,” but on a scrolling screen the text continuously moves, removing stable visual reference points. This imposes extra load on working memory, since readers must remember context without the aid of fixed spatial cues (Benson, 2020).
Speed Reading Faster – FREE talk at Watkins Books in London, 24 July 2025 (Thursday), 5pm – 19-21 Cecil Ct, London WC2N 4EZ, UK
Speed Reading Faster – FREE talk at Watkins Books in London, 24 July 2025 (Thursday), 5pm – 19-21 Cecil Ct, London WC2N 4EZ, UK
Perfect for students, professionals and avid readers, this easy-to-follow guide will not only improve your reading speed, but also aid your retention, concentration and comprehension. Pick up proven techniques and shortcuts to make speed reading simple, effective and effortless, such as how to:
• identify key information
• read in meaningful chunks
• open your peripheral vision
• move your eyes in patterns
and much more!
Meet the authors, Jan Cisek and Susan Norman, at Watkins Books in London presenting their latest books Speed Reading Faster
You can purchase Speed Reading Faster at Amazon UK: https://amzn.eu/d/2Nawva4
or Waterstones UK: https://www.waterstones.com/book/speed-reading-faster/jan-cisek/susan-norman/9781786789228
Book this FREE talk at Watkins Books website: https://www.watkinsbooks.com/event-details/speed-reading-faster-maximize-your-success-in-business-study-jan-cisek-susan-norman
How to Stop the Old Habit of Reading Word by Word and Make Speed Reading Your New Normal
You’ve tasted it. The freedom of speed reading. The thrill of doubling your reading speed and getting through your workload faster than ever before. You know the techniques. You’ve experienced the benefits.
But then something happens.
You’re reading a dense article, a textbook, or even a simple email, and suddenly you realise you’re back to the old habit. Reading slowly and linearly (possibly on word at a time), hoping to absorb it all. You sigh. “Why am I doing this again?”
Here’s the truth: speed reading isn’t just a technique. It’s a mindset, a habit, and a lifestyle shift. Forming this habit takes intentional effort. But once it’s embedded, it transforms not just how you read, but how you think and learn.
Let’s explore what it really takes to leave old habits behind and make speed reading second nature.
Forming a New Habit Begins with Conscious Use and Practice
Like brushing your teeth or driving a car, speed reading only becomes effortless after consistent, conscious repetition. Initially, your brain resists. It wants to fall back on well-worn neural pathways, the ones built by years of reading slowly, word by word.
To create a new reading habit, you need to:
- Use speed reading techniques every day, even for a few minutes.
- Make speed reading your default, not your “sometimes” mode.
- Remind your brain that it’s safe, effective, and more efficient to read this new way.
Mastering Speed Reading: Engaging the Conscious, Subconscious, and Unconscious Mind
Speed reading is not merely a mechanical technique; it is a sophisticated cognitive process that involves the interplay of the three primary layers of the human mind: the conscious, the subconscious, and the unconscious. When applied strategically, speed reading allows not only for faster intake of information but also for deeper comprehension and long-term retention. Understanding how these layers of the mind operate during reading, particularly in non-fiction contexts such as science, psychology, and philosophy, offers new perspectives on learning and intellectual performance (Damasio, 1999; Freud, 1900).
The Mind in Three Layers
The model of the mind comprising three interconnected layers has been influential across psychology and philosophy. These layers are:
Consciousness encompasses our immediate awareness of self and environment. It governs the thoughts, emotions, and actions we intentionally generate. When reading, the conscious mind takes charge of deliberate cognitive functions such as interpreting meaning, drawing comparisons, and applying critical analysis. This layer enables focused engagement, allowing readers to actively annotate, highlight, and make sense of complex material (Cherry, 2023).
Mastering Speed and Accuracy: The Power of Typing, Speech-to-Text, and High-Speed Audiobook Listening for Enhanced Speed Reading Skills
In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to quickly process information whether through typing, speech-to-text, or high-speed audiobook listening is a skill in high demand. From the groundbreaking achievements of elite typists to the emerging potential of AI to generate text and high-speed audiobooks as training tools, the boundaries of what is possible are expanding. In this article, we explore average and professional typing speeds, the traits of top typists, and how engaging with AI outputs, speech-to-text technology and accelerated audiobooks can enhance speed reading skills and overall comprehension.
Understanding Human Reading Speeds
The Challenge of Reading One Word at a Time
Reading text one word at a time with gaps of 1 to 2 seconds between words is not only slow but also cognitively challenging. Similarly, listening to someone speak very slowly, with long pauses between words, can make it difficult to understand their message. This unnatural pacing disrupts the brain’s ability to process information fluidly, making comprehension difficult and frustrating. It is like driving in first gear with frequent stops – unnecessarily slow, inefficient, and disruptive to the natural flow of communication, making it harder to grasp the overall message. Unlike natural reading, where the brain recognises entire phrases and sentences as meaningful units, isolating each word forces the reader to rely on working memory for extended periods, increasing mental strain and reducing retention.
WATCH THE RECORDING OF Learn SPEED READING Faster FREE Webinar with Jan Cisek & Susan Norman
Learn SPEED READING Faster
FREE Webinar with Jan Cisek & Susan Norman
Thank you for joining our Learn Speed Reading Faster webinar last week! If you missed it, here is your chance to watch the recording at your convenience and discover how to:
• double your reading speed and more…
• expand your peripheral vision to maximise text processing
• get key information quickly from any text
Watch it here and subscribe to our new channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-i1XZsm4fQs
We hope you find it valuable. Let us know if you have any questions!
The webinar is based on our new book SPEED READING FASTER (Maximise Your Success in Business & Study), published by Watkins Books on 11 March. The book is written so that you put the techniques into practice immediately with the book itself, so it naturally shifts your brain into high gear, making learning speed reading faster, almost automatic, as you turn each page.
Learn SPEED READING Faster
The book Speed Reading Faster presents several, novel ideas and techniques to improve reading speed and comprehension. Here are some of the most notable concepts:
- The book itself teaches you how to (speed) read it. The book encourages readers to use speed reading techniques right away and to not read every word, but only what is necessary to start using the techniques . The book’s structure is designed to be read non-sequentially.
- Speed reading is more than just reading faster; it’s about getting information quickly and efficiently. It’s about using techniques to absorb more information faster, which includes knowing shortcuts to your goal, similar to knowing shortcuts when driving.
- A key technique is to have a clear purpose before you start reading. This involves knowing precisely what you want to get from the text in the time available. Setting a clear purpose makes it easier to keep your concentration and find information.
The Importance of Reading and Speed Reading: A Key to Economic Growth in the U.S. and the Rest of the World
The Importance of Reading and Speed Reading: A Key to Economic Growth in the U.S. and the Rest of the World
Literacy is a foundational skill that influences both individual success and national economic stability. In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to read and process information quickly is more critical than ever. However, literacy statistics in the United States and some other countries reveal a troubling decline, posing significant economic and social challenges.
Current Literacy Crisis in the United States
Recent data indicates that 54% of American adults aged 16 to 74 have literacy skills below a sixth-grade level, which translates to approximately 130 million adults struggling with basic reading and comprehension. Even more concerning, 21% of U.S. adults are classified as illiterate, bringing the country’s overall literacy rate down to 79% in 2025—a decline from 85.64% in 2020.
Low literacy levels have far-reaching consequences. Studies show that inadequate literacy skills cost the U.S. economy up to $2.2 trillion annually, affecting workforce productivity, employability, and innovation. With a growing demand for digital and information literacy in modern industries, the inability to read and process information efficiently places millions of Americans at an economic disadvantage.
Why Do We Need Speed Reading Faster in the Age of AI?
Why Do We Need Speed Reading Faster in the Age of AI?
Why do we need speed reading faster now more than ever? Because of competition, i.e. AI. 🙂
As AI continues to advance, processing and analysing information at unprecedented speeds, humans must find ways to keep up and stay relevant. The rise of AI is reshaping industries, leading to job losses in some fields – a ‘winter’ for certain professions – making it crucial for individuals to enhance their adaptability and cognitive agility to thrive in an evolving job market.
It might seem counterintuitive to write a book on speed reading when AI can perform reading tasks faster and more efficiently, but in reality, speed reading remains a crucial skill for human adaptability and cognitive agility – keep reading and you’ll know why speed reading is still relevant – and maybe more than ever.
Speed reading is not just about reading faster; it’s about adapting to an era where information is abundant, and the ability to quickly comprehend and synthesise knowledge can set individuals apart. AI may process data, but humans must still make sense of it, apply critical thinking, and innovate within and beyond what AI can do or predict.
Why Speed Reading Still Matters in the Age of AI
In a world where artificial intelligence can process, analyse, and summarise vast amounts of information in seconds, the role of human reading and comprehension is evolving. Speed reading, once considered a crucial skill for navigating information overload, may seem less relevant when AI can do all the heavy lifting. However, a deeper look suggests that speed reading can still hold a vital and unexpected role – one that resembles the groundbreaking Move 37 in the historic AlphaGo match.
Books as Medicine: Deep Reading, Bibliotherapy and the Future of Reading
Books as Medicine: Deep Reading, Bibliotherapy and the Future of Reading
In an age dominated by rapid content consumption, where attention is measured in seconds and books often yield to digital summaries, a quiet revolution is taking place. It stems from the heart of bibliotherapy – the deliberate use of books to heal, to transform, and to empower. Dr Wanda Matras-Mastalerz, a Polish literary scholar and bibliotherapist, has been a long-time consultant to the British Library’s “Reading Well Books on Prescription” programme. She has observed that “stories contained in books are mirrors in which we can see ourselves” (Czwarty Wymiar, 2025). Her work highlights how reading, especially when deep and reflective, becomes a tool for self-care and insight.
The Healing Power of the Page
Bibliotherapy is more than the therapeutic reading of sacred texts. It refers to structured reading aimed at changing behaviour and supporting emotional healing through the written word. Although Poland does not yet formally recognise bibliotherapy as a professional discipline, twelve countries – including the United Kingdom – have institutionalised the practice through initiatives like “Reading Well Books on Prescription”. This programme, launched in England in 2013 by The Reading Agency and Libraries Connected with support from Arts Council England, provides curated reading lists endorsed by health professionals. It supports individuals in managing health and well-being through recommended self-help books, which are freely available in public libraries. Books may be suggested by health professionals or borrowed directly by library users (Reading Agency, n.d.).
Why Speed Readers Make More Money and Achieve Greater Success
Why Speed Readers Make More Money and Achieve Greater Success
In today’s fast-paced professional landscape, the ability to process information efficiently isn’t just an advantage – it’s a necessity. Among the most underrated skills driving career success is speed reading. While many assume it’s a niche talent, evidence suggests that speed readers often outpace their peers in earnings, promotions, and overall achievement. Let’s explore the link between speed reading and success.
The Hidden Advantage: How Speed Reading Fuels Success
- Time Efficiency Translates to Productivity
Speed reading enables professionals to digest reports, emails, and industry updates in a fraction of the time. For example, a participant in one of our courses reported a £30,000 salary increase within three months of mastering these techniques, attributing it to his ability to handle workloads three times faster than colleagues. By compressing hours of reading into minutes, speed readers free up time for high-value tasks – negotiations, strategic planning, or skill development – that directly impact career growth.
In short, speed readers are more successful in personal and professional lives because they get good quality knowledge and wisdom, faster.
For instance, lawyers who must analyse lengthy legal documents can benefit immensely. A legal consultant who adopted speed reading techniques found that she could prepare cases twice as fast as before, leading to increased billable hours and more satisfied clients. Likewise, business executives who need to keep up with industry trends can process market reports swiftly, giving them an edge in strategic planning.
Famous Speed Readers: From Tony Robbins to Historical Figures
Famous Speed Readers: From Tony Robbins to Historical Figures
The ability to read quickly and comprehend vast amounts of information has long been admired and sought after. Throughout history, many notable figures have been renowned for their exceptional reading speeds and voracious appetites for knowledge. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most famous speed readers, from modern self-help gurus to historical icons, and examine their thoughts on the practice of speed reading.
Anthony Robbins Speed Reader
Tony Robbins: The Modern Speed Reading Advocate
Tony Robbins, the renowned motivational speaker and self-help author, is a strong proponent of speed reading. In his youth, Robbins recognised the power of knowledge and sought to consume as much information as possible. He has often spoken about how learning to speed read changed his life:
“As a young man, I decided I was going to read a book a day. I didn’t quite read a book a day, but over seven years, I did read more than 700 books…”
Robbins credits his success in part to his ability to rapidly consume and synthesise information. He took a speed reading course as a teenager and used this skill to devour hundreds of books on psychology, personal development, and human behaviour. This foundation of knowledge became the basis for his career as a life coach and motivational speaker.
In addition, Robbins has endorsed techniques like PhotoReading (a branded version of speed reading), remarking, “I have seen Paul Scheele help countless numbers of people to discover a faster, more efficient path to success through his PhotoReading system. No matter what you need to read, he can teach you to get it done in a third of the time.”
Master 7 Practical Uses and Transformative Benefits of Speed Reading: Unlock Knowledge, Save Time, and Enhance Focus with Speed Reading
Master 7 Practical Uses and Transformative Benefits of Speed Reading: Unlock Knowledge, Save Time, and Enhance Focus with Speed Reading
Introduction: Why Speed Reading Matters in Today’s World
In an age where information flows at unprecedented speeds, our ability to process and utilise knowledge effectively is paramount. Speed reading is not just about reading faster; it is about learning smarter, increasing comprehension, and accessing the critical information needed for decision-making in record time. This blog explores the diverse applications of speed reading and how it can transform the way you interact with the world.
7 Practical Uses and Transformative Benefits of Speed Reading:
Academic Achievement: Absorbing Knowledge Effectively
Professional Development: Staying Ahead in Your Career
Personal Development and Lifelong Learning
Overcoming Challenges in Reading Dense or Technical Texts
Leveraging Speed Reading in the Digital Age
Enhancing Cognitive Skills and Mental Agility
Speed Reading for Creative and Strategic Thinking
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Academic Achievement: Absorbing Knowledge Effectively
Students and researchers face a constant influx of reading materials, from textbooks to research papers. Speed reading techniques are transformative tools that empower learners to manage their workload effectively, retain key information, and excel in their academic pursuits.
Rapid comprehension: Different speed reading techniques enable readers to quickly grasp the main arguments in academic texts. By focusing on grouping words into meaningful clusters or scanning for key themes, readers can understand the overall narrative without the need for line-by-line reading.
Syntopic reading: This advanced strategy involves reading multiple sources simultaneously to compare and synthesise ideas. For instance, a history student exploring World War I can juxtapose primary sources, scholarly critiques, and contemporary interpretations to create a nuanced understanding of the topic (Carr, 2011).
What is Speed Reading? A Journey Beyond Words
Speed reading has captured imaginations for decades, often viewed as the key to processing written material at lightning speed. But as we dive into the world of speed reading, it becomes evident that it’s about much more than mere speed. With techniques that enhance comprehension, efficiency, and focus, speed reading transforms how we interact with written words.
Our new book, Speed Reading Faster – Maximize You Success in Business and Study, pushes the boundaries of traditional speed reading. It’s not just about turning pages faster and reading faster; it’s about employing strategic shortcuts to make learning and reading more purposeful and impactful.
Listen to a podcast about this blog below
A Brief History of Speed Reading
The concept of speed reading has developed over more than a century, beginning in the 19th century with Emil Javel. In 1878, Javel discovered “saccades,” the small jumps our eyes make during reading, and showed that readers could process chunks of text rather than individual words. By 1884, silent reading techniques gained prominence, focusing on reducing subvocalisation, where readers say words internally as they read.
Make Speed Reading Your New Year’s Resolution and Transform Your 2025
The New Year is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to set new goals and embrace transformative habits. This blog is about keeping any New Year resolution, small or big.
If there’s one resolution that can revolutionise your personal and professional life, it’s learning to speed read, for example (which I use as an example, but replace it with your new resolution or habits you want to master).
Imagine absorbing books, reports, and emails in record time while retaining the information you need. Speed reading is not just a skill—it’s a game-changer.
Listen to the podcast about speed reading as your 2025 New Year’s resolution…
This year, we’re thrilled to announce the upcoming release of our new book, Speed Reading Faster, on 11 March. Why not make speed reading your New Year’s resolution and commit to pre-ordering the book today? Backed by insights into the power of resolutions, this blog explores how habits, such as speed reading can transform your life and offers tips to help you stick to your goals.
Unlocking Creativity: Iconic Works Entering the Public Domain in 2025 – A Speed Reader’s and Bookaholic’s Delight
Every year, bibliophiles, film enthusiasts, speed readers, and bookaholics eagerly anticipate a special moment in January: Public Domain Day. It’s the time when certain creative works are liberated from the chains of copyright and become part of the public domain, allowing anyone to freely read, share, remix, and reinterpret them. In 2025, a treasure trove of literature, music, film, and more has entered the public domain, opening new doors to creativity and access.
The Public Domain: A Gateway to Cultural Freedom
The public domain comprises works whose intellectual property rights have expired or were never applicable, meaning they are free for everyone to use. This cultural wealth promotes creativity, innovation, and accessibility. In the UK, works enter the public domain 70 years after the death of their creators, while in the US, copyright lasts for 95 years for works published before 1978. This year marks a particularly exciting milestone as notable works from 1929—and more—become freely available. Speed readers can dive into these classics at a pace that suits their appetite for knowledge, while bookaholics can relish the opportunity to explore these timeless treasures without limits.
Xmas got faster! Our Speed Reading Faster is here!
Pre-order the book now – it will be published on 11 March 2025!
For pre-orders in the UK, Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/2Nawva4
For pre-orders in the US, Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/speed-reading-faster-jan-cisek/1145786953
Manifest: The Word of 2024, according to the Cambridge Dictionary and Its Transformative Power
Manifest: The Word of 2024, according to the Cambridge Dictionary and Its Transformative Power
The Word of the Year
Each year, the Cambridge Dictionary selects a word that captures the spirit of the time. For 2024, the chosen word is ‘manifest’. This selection reflects the surge of interest in a term that has captivated millions around the world, largely thanks to social media and celebrity endorsements. But what does it really mean to ‘manifest’, and how has its usage evolved over centuries to capture this moment?
Historical Roots of ‘Manifest’
At its core, the word ‘manifest’ has always been about making things visible or obvious. Dating back to the 1300s, its earliest recorded use in English was as an adjective meaning ‘clear’ or ‘evident’. Derived from French and Latin, it was even used by Chaucer in the late 14th century, appearing in its archaic form, ‘manyfest’. Later, Shakespeare himself took delight in exploring the versatility of ‘manifest’, using it as both a noun and a verb in his plays. For instance, in King Lear, the Duke of Albany condemns Edmund for his ‘heinous, manifest, and many treasons’, emphasising the clarity of the villain’s wrongdoings.
Read the summary of The Neuroscience of Manifesting by Dr Sabina Brennan
Summary of Cass R. Sunstein’s “How to Become Famous: Lost Einsteins, Forgotten Superstars, and How the Beatles Came to Be
Cass R. Sunstein’s book “How to Become Famous: Lost Einsteins, Forgotten Superstars, and How the Beatles Came to Be” explores the complex nature of fame and success. Here is a summary of the key points of the book.
Fame Isn’t Just Talent: Unpacking Cass Sunstein’s ‘How to Become Famous’
Cass R. Sunstein’s book “How to Become Famous: Lost Einsteins, Forgotten Superstars, and How the Beatles Came to Be” is a fascinating exploration of what makes someone famous, and why others with equal or greater talent may be forgotten. It goes beyond the conventional wisdom that fame is a natural outcome of talent and explores the powerful role of timing, luck, and societal dynamics. This book encourages readers to think critically about the ingredients that blend together to make someone “famous.”
Summary of DAVID SPIEGELHALTER The Art of Uncertainty How to Navigate Chance, Ignorance, Risk and Luck
Summary of DAVID SPIEGELHALTER The Art of Uncertainty: How to Navigate Chance, Ignorance, Risk and Luck
The cover featuring two egg yolks within an egg shape is a clever metaphor for the concepts of chance and uncertainty. Eggs, by their nature, represent potential — they are fragile, contain life, and yet their outcomes are uncertain. The image of two yolks in one egg is a rare, somewhat “lucky” occurrence, signifying an element of chance or something unexpected. This aligns with the book’s themes of navigating luck, risk, and uncertainty.
In terms of the metaphor:
- The egg: Symbolises fragility, beginnings, and the unknown. An egg is opaque — you can’t see what’s inside until it’s cracked open. Similarly, life often presents us with situations where the outcome is uncertain, hidden from us until events unfold.
- Two yolks: Represent a statistical anomaly — a symbol of chance or serendipity. The likelihood of finding two yolks in one egg is small, so it draws attention to the unpredictable nature of outcomes and the way probability plays a role in our lives. This ties in with the book’s examination of risk, luck, and how to approach situations where the outcome isn’t guaranteed.
The book “The Art of Uncertainty” is likely guiding the reader on how to cope with or even embrace these unpredictable elements in life — how to balance ignorance and risk, and how to see opportunities in moments of chance, much like discovering an unexpected double yolk.
The imagery is playful yet profound, suggesting that there’s an art to navigating life’s uncertainties, just as there is a certain magic or luck (read the summary of The Luck Factor) in stumbling upon something rare, like two yolks.
Summary of Richard Wiseman’s Magic Your Mind Happy and The Wonders of Learning Magic
Magic Tricks and Mental Wellbeing: The Wonders of Learning Magic
Richard Wiseman’s upcoming book Magic Your Mind Happy: Amazing Magic Tricks for Happiness, Confidence and Calm explores how learning and performing magic tricks can boost mental wellbeing and cognitive abilities. Set to be published in May 2024, this book aims to teach readers magic tricks while simultaneously enhancing their confidence, happiness, and mental resilience (Wiseman, 2024).
Summary of Richard Wiseman’s Magic Your Mind Happy
Professor Richard Wiseman, a renowned psychologist and member of the prestigious Magic Circle, reveals the secrets behind various magic tricks designed to bring out the magic in readers. The book promises to teach techniques such as defying gravity, reading minds, making objects appear and disappear, and even predicting the future. However, the true focus is on how these magical skills can boost mental wellbeing, resilience, and self-belief (Wiseman, 2024).
Wiseman’s approach combines his expertise in psychology with his passion for magic, creating a unique tool for mental wellbeing support. The book is expected to appeal to both children and adults, offering awe-inspiring magic tricks for kids to learn and perform, while parents can appreciate the potential for their child’s confidence to flourish (Hachette Children’s Group, 2023).
SPEED READING FASTER – Our New Book is Coming in March 2025
The most comprehensive book on speed reading, guiding readers through simple techniques, strategies and tips to improve their reading speed, understanding and concentration.
This is a practical, accessible guide to reading faster, improving concentration and increasing retention. Experts Jan Cisek and Susan Norman use their 20+ years’ experience to teach readers the best tips and hacks on getting information more efficiently and effectively.
Whether the reader is a student trying to improve their study skills, a professional who needs to review more material as a part of their job or someone who wants to read more for pleasure, this is the only guide they need.
With an accessible bespoke design, the typography will make information easy to find, giving readers a simple starting point to practise their speed reading. This book will not only teach you how to read faster, it will show you how to:
- improve your concentration
- understand what you’re reading
- remember more of the information
- critically analyse a text to determine what information is important
Speed Reading Faster makes it easy to be successful with less effort – to become a smarter, faster and more productive reader.
About the Author
For pre-orders in the US, Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/speed-reading-faster-jan-cisek/1145786953
Summary of DUNE by Frank Herbert
Summary of DUNE by Frank Herbert, Chilton Book, New York, N.Y., 1965
Type of work Science fiction
Setting The desert planet Arrakis (also known as Dune); A.D. 10,190
Principal characters
Leto Atreides, Duke of Caladan and Arrakis
Jessica Atreides, Leto’s concubine
Paul Atreides, Duke Leto and Jessica’s only son
Baron Vladimir Harkonnen, enemy of the Atreides family
The Padishah Emperor, a wicked ally of the Harkonnens
Commentary
In Dune, Frank Herbert invents an entirely new and complex society, and introduces a domain whose power is wielded by three factions: a Space Guild with a monopoly on interplanetary travel, the Bene Gesserit religious school, and the Padishah Emperor.
The story of Dune can be read on several levels: as the adventures of a young boy called upon to vanquish his enemies; as the struggles of a man to control his own destiny; and as the dilemma of a prophet fighting against his role as the “messiah” of an oppressed people while trying to prevent a universal jihad, or “holy war.”
Story Overview
For 20 generations the noble Atreides family – Duke Leto Atreides, his concubine Jessica, and their son Paul – had ruled the watery, tropical world of Caladan. Now they were leaving their home-world to govern the sparsely settled desert planet of Arrakis. Arrakis, however desolate it might be, was considered one of the richest bases in the universe – for the prized spice Melange was found only in its deserts. Melange was valued for two remarkable properties: it extended its users’ lives and it gave them a limited ability to look into the future. Without the spice, the Space Guild navigators would be working blind; they would have no way to foresee the paths of safest passage for their ships, and travel between the stars would become impossible. Members of the Bene Gesserit, a highly esteemed and powerful religious sect, also used the spice for the provisionary powers it conferred – and also as a way to detect whether or not others were telling the truth.
The Art of Thin-Slicing: Maximising Getting Knowledge and Wisdom in Minimal Words or Chunks of Info
In the age of information overload, our ability to quickly and effectively extract valuable insights is more crucial than ever. One concept that beautifully captures this skill is “thin-slicing,” a term popularized by Malcolm Gladwell in his book ‘Blink.’ Thin-slicing refers to the art of obtaining as much information as possible with minimal input, and it’s a strategy that can revolutionise the way we read books and approach various aspects of life.
Thin-Slicing and Books
When we pick up a book to gain factual information, our goal should be to minimise the time and effort required to extract the key insights. This is where thin-slicing comes into play. Instead of diving headfirst into every word, we should start by previewing the book. Much like slicing a cake vertically to get a taste without consuming the entire thing, previewing allows us to grasp the essence of a book quickly.
Imagine you’re cutting a cake to discover its flavour. Naturally, you’d opt for a thin, vertical slice. In the same way, when we thin-slice a book, we’re effectively cutting through layers of information to get to the core. This approach not only saves time but also enhances our comprehension.
Summary of FAHRENHEIT 451 by Ray Bradbury
FAHRENHEIT 451
by Ray Bradbury, Simon & Schuster, New York, N.Y., 1967
Summary of FAHRENHEIT 451 by Ray Bradbury
Type of work Science fiction
Setting A city in the future
Principal characters
Guy Montag, a book-burning “fireman”
Mildred, his wife
Captain Beatty, Montag’s supervisor
Faber, an old man – an advocate of books
Story Overview
Returning home from work early one morning, Guy Montag saw a young woman walking toward him. Drawing nearer, he realized that it was his new teenage neighbor, Clarisse, so he stopped and introduced himself. Catching the scent of kerosene on him, she said, “And you must be – the fireman.” Something in her voice troubled Montag. But fireman was a perfectly good profession; both his father and grandfather had been firemen. After all, burning forbidden books and the homes of those who harbored them was a civic service.
Welcome to the age of techno-censorship.
“Is it true,” Clarisse asked, “that long ago firemen put fires out instead of going to start them?” No, Guy answered. Then she stared at the “451” stitched on his char-colored sleeve. 451: the temperature at which books burn.
Clarisse was a strange girl, Guy decided. She admitted to rarely watching the 3-D television “parlor walls.” And she asked unexpected questions. “Are you happy?” she shot at Guy as he turned to take his leave.
Timeline of Key Developments in Speed Reading and Future Predictions
1879: William James publishes “The Principles of Psychology,” introducing the concept of rapid reading and the importance of efficient eye movements.
1898: Émile Coué popularizes the use of self-hypnosis and suggestion for improving reading speed and comprehension.
1950s: Evelyn Wood develops the Wood Method, emphasizing the elimination of subvocalization (pronouncing words internally while reading) to increase reading speed.
1960s: Walter B. Pitkin introduces the concept of “mental reading” and advocates for skimming and scanning techniques to enhance reading speed.
1971: Dr. Paul G. Pimsleur publishes “The Pimsleur Language Aptitude Battery,” highlighting the correlation between reading speed and comprehension.
1978: Tony Buzan introduces the concept of Mind Mapping, a visual learning technique that promotes faster reading and information absorption.
1980s: PhotoReading, a method developed by Paul R. Scheele, combines relaxation techniques and visual perception to increase reading speed and memory retention.
1992: Howard Berg sets the Guinness World Record as the fastest reader, with a reported reading speed of over 25,000 words per minute.
Shortcuts to Spd Rdng (Speed reading) at NLP conference 2023
We’re presenting at the NLP conference: Saturday, 20 May 2023, 15:30-17:00, ONLINE
Not enough time to get through all the NLP books? Or any books?
‘Shortcuts to speed reading’ gives you techniques and strategies to read much faster, and more importantly process loads more relevant information.
During the presentation we’ll guide you through how to double or triple your reading rate, and how to take the relevant information from at least four NLP (or other) books in the time it would currently take you to read one.
Learning outcomes…
Double or triple your reading rate, and how to take the relevant information from at least four NLP (or other) books in the time it would currently take you to read one.
Book NLP conference: Saturday, 20 May 2023, 15:30-17:00, ONLINE
Summary of Psycho-cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz, MD, Simon and Schuster, 1960
Psycho-cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz, MD, Simon and Schuster, 1960
Doctor Maxwell Maltz, a plastic surgeon, noticed that most of his patients who underwent surgery to correct a major defect experienced an accompanying rise in self-esteem. However, in some cases the patient continued to have feelings of inferiority. This phenomenon led Maltz to conclude that changed physical image was not the only key to the changes he saw in personality. He felt the need to treat the whole patient rather than just the defective part that required his surgical skills.
While struggling with these ideas, Dr Maltz became interested in cybernetics. Cybernetics is based on “teleology” – the study of purpose or design – and deals with the goal-striving behavior of mechanical systems. Cybernetics attempts to explain the necessary steps of mechanical processes; to find mechanical analogies that can also be applied to humans. Scientific evidence shows that the brain and nervous system operate harmoniously in a purposeful manner, much like the components of a complex machine. Of course, man is not a machine – but he has and uses the ultimate machine: his brain.
Summary of Macbeth by William Shakespeare
Summary of Macbeth by William Shakespeare
Summaries of William Shakespeare
Macbeth by William Shakespeare
TYPE OF WORK
Tragic fatalistic drama
SETTING
11th century Scotland
PRINCIPAL CHARACTERS
Macbeth A noble Scottish chieftain
Lady Macbeth His wife
Banquo Macbeth’s warrior-friend
Fleance Banquo’s son
Duncan King of Scotland, a gentle and perfect ruler
Macduff A rebel lord
Three Witches
On a stormy night, Scottish armies managed to suppress a rebellion, largely through the valor of two noblemen, Macbeth and Banquo. They also had frustrated a Viking invasion that had received assistance from a prominent Scotsman, the Thane of Cawdor. When news of these two events reached Duncan, King of Scotland, he was delighted with Macbeth’s performance, but insisted that Cawdor’s treason warranted his death. Accordingly, the king declared that Cawdor be executed and that Macbeth be named in his stead, Thane of Cawdor.
Meanwhile, Macbeth and Banquo, on their way home from war, happened upon a trio of witches – hags stirring a blackened caldron and heralding Macbeth’s arrival: “Double, Double, toil and trouble.” The witches astonished the pair by prophesying that Macbeth would become first, the new Thane of Cawdor, and then, King of Scotland; and that Banquo would become the father of kings. Then the dark hags vanished, leaving Banquo and Macbeth to speculate over these strange prophecies.
“Double, Double,
toil and trouble.”
No sooner had the witches departed than two of the king’s messengers arrived with news that Macbeth had indeed been named to replace the deposed Thane of Cawdor. Macbeth was amazed to see the first of the witches’ prophecies so quickly fulfilled, and began to believe in the ultimate fulfillment of the second. If he could be Thane of Cawdor, perhaps he could rule all of Scotland as well. This innocent belief quickly expanded into a deep-seated ambition, which began to taint Macbeth’s mind with dark thoughts: Would the prophecy fulfill itself, or would he have to take action to usurp the throne? Since Duncan was king, would not one of his two sons follow him in ruling Scotland? All this time, Banquo resisted any thoughts of hastening the witches’ prophecy that his children would be kings, but could sense the unrest stirring inside the soul of his fellow officer.
Does the bionic reading app work? Speed reading apps – do they work?
Does the bionic reading app really help with reading?
Is there an effective speed reading app out there?
We have not yet found an app that we can recommend to help speed up reading. The most important thing is getting what you need from a text – and understanding it. The apps we’ve found so far are mechanistic and work with words rather than meaning and comprehension. We’ve discussed speed reading apps before and fonts that might help you read faster. Hopefully, in the future, AI will be able to analyse text and help you focus on meaningful keywords and keyphrases that could potentially help with faster and more effective reading, with increased comprehension.
Bionic reading app
Does the bionic reading app work?
Our recent find app for reading Bionic Reading (developed by Swiss typographic designer Renato Casutt) helps you focus on the beginnings of words with the aim of speeding up you’re reading. It’s true that as soon as you’ve understood the word you can move on quickly. With novels, for example, I usually recognise the characters by the first letter of their name, so it’s really annoying when two names start with the same letter, or worse when two characters have the same name (although that happens more in real life than in fiction). But as soon as you’ve understood where a phrase or sentence is going, move on. More importantly, when you’ve understood where a paragraph or page is heading, move on too.
If you really don’t know how to focus on the first letters of a word, then sign up for the free trial of this app or try the bionic reading text convertor. The app has some limited settings that allow for some options such as increasing and decreasing the number of the first letters, fonts and layout settings. The option to decrease the number of bolded letters is useful because you can eliminate less necessary grammar words such as ‘a’. And as soon as you’ve got the benefit of that skill, move on to many other small skills which can help you.
Research on the bionic reading app
According to a Guardian article, “Casutt says he has overseen a study involving 12 readers who were asked to read a text in bionic and ordinary text like what you’re reading now. Casutt concedes that the results from his tests are not clear but claims most subjects reported that bionic had a positive effect on reading (whereas a minority reported feeling “disturbed”).
Limitations of the bionic reading app
The app highlights/bolds the letters of all words, not just the meaningful ones which makes the app not that useful from the speed reading mindset. Without using this app, start focusing on the words that carry most of the meaning (nouns and verbs) and ignoring most of the smaller grammatical words, such as ‘a, the, is’, etc (while still being aware of words such as ’not’ which completely change the meaning).
For example, “The man was standing on the corner of the street.” is how your mind and eyes need to speed read text focusing on important keywords, nouns and verbs such as ‘man’, ‘standing’, ‘corner’, ‘street’ in this sentence. The bionic reading app would make you focus like this: The man was standing on the corner of the street.” The little grammar words (the, was, on the, of, the), which your eyes will notice, are not essential to the understanding of this sentence ie “The man was standing on the corner of the street.” because your mind will get the meaning from just: man – standing – corner – street.
Summary of How to Read a Book by Mortimer J. Adler and Charles Van Doren
Summary of How to Read a Book by Mortimer J. Adler and Charles Van Doren
Summary of How to Read a Book by Mortimer J. Adler and Charles Van Doren
“How to Read a Book” by Mortimer J. Adler and Charles Van Doren is a classic guide on the art of reading. It not only explains why reading is important but also provides techniques for deriving the most value from the written word.
1. The levels of reading
• Elementary Reading: Basic ability to read the written word, typically taught in elementary schools.
• Inspectional Reading: Skimming or superficial reading. The aim is to get the most out of a book within a limited time frame.
• Analytical Reading: A more thorough and systematic way of reading. The goal is to truly understand the content, arguments, and structure of the book.
• Syntopical Reading: Reading multiple books on the same topic and comparing them. This is the most complex reading level, requiring the reader to construct an analysis that might not be present in any of the books. We call it syntopic processing
Home Schooling – making texts fun with speed reading
The brain learns more easily when it’s having fun. So if you’ve got ‘texts for comprehension’ or texts which give you information about a subject, there are numerous things you can do in a home-schooling environment other than ‘read the text and answer the questions’.* The following work for all texts and all ages. Start by photocopying the text – and making sure you keep the original for checking.
Speed reading for kids
Chop it up
Chop the text into chunks (cutting between lines of text) for children to put in the right order. They have to understand the content in order to make sense of it, and also understand a bit about how sentences are constructed. The more pieces, the more difficult the task. So if the text is worth more than a glance, start with fewer pieces, then cut those in half – and then in half again, until it’s every line (or until it stops being fun).
Summary of The Age of AI And Our Human Future by Kissinger, Schmidt and Huttenlocher
The Age of AI: And Our Human Future by Henry Kissinger, Eric Schmidt, and Daniel Huttenlocher is a thought-provoking and expansive exploration of how artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to reshape our societies and challenge our very understanding of what it means to be human. Written by leaders from the realms of politics, technology, and academia, the book presents an in-depth analysis of the opportunities, risks, and philosophical questions brought about by the rise of AI. As the authors say, “Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming human society in fundamental and profound ways. Not since the Age of Reason have we changed how we approach security, economics, order, and even knowledge itself. In the Age of AI, three deep and accomplished thinkers come together to consider what AI will mean for us all.”
Key Themes
AI as a Transformative Force
The authors argue that AI represents far more than a typical technological innovation—it is a revolutionary force that is altering the human experience itself. Unlike previous inventions that simply changed how we work or live, AI is reshaping how we understand ourselves and our role within the broader context of society. The book emphasises that AI’s impact extends beyond economic or technical improvements; it transforms human cognition and perception (of reality and ourselves).
The Booksellers movie directed by D.W. Young
Antiquarian booksellers are part scholar, part detective and part businessperson, and their personalities and knowledge are as broad as the material they handle. They also play an underappreciated yet essential role in preserving history. THE BOOKSELLERS takes viewers inside their small but fascinating world, populated by an assortment of obsessives, intellects, eccentrics and dreamers.
Watch The Booksellers movie at home https://www.booksellersmovie.com/
Children’s reading and how to teach a child to read faster and speed reading
Children’s reading and how to teach a child to read faster and speed reading
We are frequently asked the questions: ‘Do the spd rdng techniques apply to children? And ‘At what age should they start?’ The answers depend on the mental rather than chronological age of each child, but generally we recommend the following.
Start spd rdng techniques aged 15+ The spd rdng system explained in this book is designed for adults. We recommend that young people start using the techniques after they’ve had some experience of reading conventionally and when they need to be more efficient. This is probably aged about 15+, at a time when they need to read more for self-directed study rather than (or as well as) for pleasure.
Speed reading for kids
Aged 5-15 Read a lot, for pleasure. Before that the age of 15, there is much to be gained from reading more slowly – you build up vocabulary, learn how sentences are structured, understand how stories develop. So the best thing children can do is to read as much as possible – of anything which interests them. It doesn’t matter whether that’s stories, football, factual information or comics. The parents’ main job is to offer them books by authors they might not otherwise come across by themselves. But the worst thing you can do is turn children off reading by making it a boring chore. Foster a love of reading in any way you can – read yourself (this is especially important for boys: they need to see men – their father or other relatives – getting pleasure from reading), talk about books you’ve read, and keep books available for them to ‘discover’ by themselves.
Advanced NLP Meta-programs to model and decode Jan Cisek’s super-duper speed reading strategies, techniques and skills. Part 2.
Some time ago (2009), Tom O’Connor (of NLP TIMES) did an NLP meta-program modelling on my speed reading strategies. You can read it here: NLP Meta-Programs and Speed Reading / Spd Rdng Part 1
Obviously, I’ve been fine-tuning my speed reading skills to a much higher level since then. Hence this blog where we’re going to crack it for you so you don’t have to. This time, Tom asked me a few, high voltage questions to get his speed reading skills to my super-duper speed reading level.
Firstly, if you’re new to speed reading, since 2009, I’ve probably speed read at least 12 000 books and texts. I’m not saying that to impress you (not at all) – but to impress upon you – that you can too with some basic speed reading skills, strategies and skills (that you can learn from our speed reading books and speed reading courses). It might seem a lot – 1000+ books/year (not for me), if you’re an average reader (who reads less than 55 books/year ie one book/week, which should be the minimum – you should aim at, at least 1 book/day in 20-minute speed reading session = 365 books/year). Actually, research suggests that in the UK, only 41% of the population reads more than 15 books/year.
Here are the general principles to Tom’s NLP modelling questions… (all his questions are at the end of the blog with my specific answers)
Top super-duper speed reading tips (mostly for factual books)
• Read more – anything
And most people do read more now, without realising it – any reading counts, even signs, cornflake packaging and restaurants’ menus. The more you read, the bigger your schema (your total knowledge, wisdom, etc) in your mind/brain. For the record, I don’t read lots of novels – probably half a dozen/year. I used to though, and I highly recommend reading novels, ‘slowly’ for pleasure and fun or to kill time, which research confirms will help you build your emotional intelligence, resilience and survival skills. Books are tools of recognition – a way of recognising where you are as a human being. The word ‘reading’ is an interesting one – you read to understand the text and you’re doing ‘reading’ on the text ie through your own interpretive modes of perception. Read more is speed reading technique #36 in our Spd Rdng System.
Also, recognise that you already have some speed reading skills such as speed-reading newspapers, using a dictionary and searching the Internet.
Speed read hundreds of books a year
Speed Reading for Study: Speed reading techniques tips and strategies for studying fast and passing exams
Speed Reading for Study – Get it on Kindle NOW
The term ‘Speed Reading’ means ‘reading fast’, and it can encompass various techniques people use in order to read faster than traditional slow reading. We (Susan and Jan) have developed a system which includes many additional strategies and techniques, specifically for focusing on getting the information you need from a text. Often the person who knows all the shortcuts will reach the destination before the person who has the fastest car. We call our system SpdRdng, and that’s what we’re sharing with you in this book. For ease of reading, however, we refer to ‘speed reading’ throughout.
This book gives you lots of speed reading techniques, strategies, and tips, and shows you how to use them individually – and in combination – for stress-free, successful studies. If you follow the instructions, you should at least double your reading speed and be getting 10 times more information from your reading, thereby saving lots of time which you can use for relaxing, or for working more to get higher grades. The speed reading techniques will help you remember more too – so you’ll be learning quickly and easily.
You’ll learn the techniques more quickly if you try them out as soon as possible – with either digital or paper texts. We show you immediately how to apply them to study more effectively (because the techniques work) and more efficiently (so you save time).
We’d like you to put our first tip into practice right away. The tip is:
Overview before detail – see the big picture
“Great study guide for students and anyone who needs to pass exams, etc
I am a student mentor and I’ve used successfully the workbook The Speed Reading Bible by the same authors. Speed Reading for Study is a shorter ebook and therefore quicker to use. It took me less than 15 minutes to go through this ebook and get lots of very useful and practical tips for studying faster, writing essays, preparing for lectures, background reading and preparing for exams and passing them successfully. (actually, you can get through this ebook in 5 minutes just by reading the top tips). The syntopic processing technique for gathering info for essays is just brilliant. Highly recommended and very good value for money.” Bozena Latek, Five star review from Amazon Kindle