Kenneth M. Heilman, MD ’63, has authored a new book, The Athletic Brain. The book discusses the brain mechanisms the allow the learning of new motor skills, executive functions, handedness, visual perception, balance, moods and emotions that are important in different sports. It also discusses the benefits of athletic activities and some of the dangers of certain activities on the brain.

In addition, he has written a book called Brain Building Games with his grandchildren. Heilman says, “It has long been known that cognitive stimulation of the brain’s cerebral cortex enhances the brain development of children. During long trips or while waiting, we would play competitive games that were designed to stimulate different specific areas of the brain. In this book, we describe areas of the cerebral cortex and their functions. We then describe some games that may stimulate these areas, as well as provide enjoyment.”