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The Storytelling Animal by Jonathan Gottschall: A Book Review
Why do humans tell stories? Why do we dream, daydream, binge TV shows, and get lost in novels? Jonathan Gottschall’s The Storytelling Animal: How Stories Make Us Human takes us deep into these questions, and the result is fascinating.
This isn’t just a book about literature. It’s about psychology, evolution, and how story runs through every part of human life.
Overview
Gottschall argues that storytelling is what makes us uniquely human. From ancient myths to Netflix, we live in narrative — it shapes our morality, identity, and even survival. He shows how stories influence our beliefs, guide our choices, and help us make sense of chaos.
It’s not always positive. Stories can inspire courage and empathy, but they can also manipulate, mislead, and justify harm. Gottschall doesn’t shy away from showing both sides.
Key Takeaways
- We are “Homo fictus.” Storytelling is hardwired into us — it’s not just entertainment, but part of our biology.
- Stories shape behavior. Narratives guide our sense of morality, justice, and belonging.
- Dreams are stories, too. Even when asleep, our brains create narratives to rehearse threats, desires, and fears.
- The double edge of story. Stories can heal and inspire, but they can also deceive and divide.
Why I Recommend It
I recommend this book because it makes you see everyday life differently. Every news headline, every social media post, every conversation is shaped by story. Gottschall helps us realize we’re not just consumers of story — we’re creators of it.
For writers, therapists, teachers, parents — honestly, for anyone curious about why humans act the way they do — this book is eye-opening.
Where to Buy
You can grab your copy of The Storytelling Animal here:
👉 Buy on Amazon
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