Description

New York Times Bestseller • A thoughtful and practical guide to truly understanding others in order to build deeper relationships at home, in the workplace, and throughout life—from the author of *The Road to Character* and *The Second Mountain*.

Bill Gates describes it as “more than a guide to better conversations, it’s a blueprint for a more connected and humane way of living. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their relationships and broaden their perspectives.”

David Brooks highlights a fundamental skill essential to individuals, families, schools, communities, and society as a whole: the ability to truly see and understand another person—making them feel valued, heard, and acknowledged. Yet, many people feel unseen or misunderstood in their daily lives.

In *How to Know a Person*, Brooks explores how we can improve at this, asking key questions: What kind of attention helps us truly know someone? What types of conversations foster deeper understanding? Which aspects of a person’s story should we focus on?

Drawing from psychology, neuroscience, theater, philosophy, history, and education, Brooks offers a thoughtful, hopeful, and practical approach to meaningful human connection. His insights encourage readers to become more empathetic and considerate while experiencing the fulfillment that comes from being truly seen.

Beyond personal growth, the book also serves as a potential solution to a society divided by misunderstanding, hostility, and disconnection. Brooks argues that truly seeing another person is an act of creativity—one that not only reveals something profound about them but also deepens our own self-awareness.

*How to Know a Person* is a must-read for anyone seeking deeper connections and a greater sense of understanding in their relationships and daily interactions.