Book & podcast collection

Playful: How Play Shifts Our Thinking, Inspires Connection, and Sparks Creativity

byCas HolmanandLydia Denworth

Designer Cas Holman and science writer Lydia Denworth explore play as a fundamental mode of learning, invention, and human connection rather than a luxury reserved for children. Drawing on psychology, neuroscience, history, art, education, and design, they show how playful states encourage experimentation, flexible thinking, cooperation, and resilience. Examples from classrooms, workplaces, studios, and communities demonstrate how environments can either invite or suppress curiosity. The book offers adults permission and practical ideas to recover play, arguing that creativity and joy often emerge when outcomes are not predetermined and exploration is allowed to matter.

Publisher

Avery

Publication date

2025-10-21

Format

Hardcover

Pages

288

ISBN

9780593713402