Places of the Heart: The Psychogeography of Everyday Life

The author mixes the theoretical and empirical points of view about how geographically influences human behavior and establish a clear relationship.

This is a brilliant book. I found it very interesting and was moved to contact the author after finishing the book to thank him.

I read non-fiction only sometimes, and was worried this topic might be a bit of technical or dry, but I was quite fascinated on almost every page with a field of science I had never before explored. Ellard splits up his material into the emotional reactions that different places manifest in us, and then breaks down those emotional responses to their technical and scientific elements without ever losing the thread of a compelling narrative.He mixes in stories from his own life, or examples of emotions caused by places that we've all felt. For instance, I know now that he loved a particular red metal can opener that was taken from him by rust, and he still wistfully thinks of it when opening a can of beans. :) (And then he describes the science of why he may feel that!)For me, though, I was hugely surprised at the amount that is unknown in this field. Ellard sometimes describes two contrasting theories for what is happening at a given time - like how we feel in places of awe - and tries to reconcile those differences. I think this should be mandatory reading for any urban planner, or anyone who has a house they want to feel like home.All in all, a fascinating read that I plan on picking up for an architect friend of mine, and maybe I'll share my copy with my aunt and sisters, but I may make them get their own.

Comprehensive insight! As one who knows nothing about psychogeography, Ellard lays out the facts in relatable terms with anecdotal stories. His writing style is clever and concise and the whole book is entirely captivating. I generally don't read non fiction however I would recommend this book to anyone. It makes you think about the places you've been and how they effect who you've become. If you've visited somewhere more than once, how does your perspective change? Do you change the places you've visited? It brings up an incredible amount of questions on things most people brush by on a daily basis. Read this book, you won't be sorry. Plus you'll impress your friends with all your new found knowledge! Places of the Heart: The Psychogeography of Everyday LifePlaces of the Heart: The Psychogeography of Everyday Life

good readings.