Tracking Wonder: Reclaiming a Life of Meaning and Possibility in a World Obsessed with Productivity

Proclaiming that “wonder is not simply for kids” but is instead “radical grown-up stuff,” Davis’s buoyant debut prescribes a “de-centering” of self that allows what he’s named the six facets of wonder—openness, curiosity, bewilderment, hope, connection, and admiration—to flow. Journaling is encouraged for readers to record moments like the sight of a river or reflections on thoughts about a leaf. He posits that in an age of uncertainty, it’s human nature to shy away from displaying weakness, but that “cynicism” or otherwise being closed to new ideas amounts to costly “rigid thinking” that rules out discovering new ways to approach problems. Davis urges the acceptance of fear as part of the process of finding success, offering such examples as Cristian Fracassi, a scientist whose willingness to forgo his bias about something deemed nearly impossible—creating a ventilator valve on a 3D printer—has saved hundreds of lives. Though, curiously, one disappointing aspect of the work is when Davis displays his own bias against solitary-seeking personalities (he refers to himself as a “reformed introvert” and champions joining “packs” of peers to benefit from help and encouragement of community). But for those who need an injection of hope in an overwhelming world, Davis offers a well-drawn road map to discovering wonder and, quite possibly, joy. (Nov.)