Book description
"Fascinating."-Thomas W. Hodgkinson, The Guardian
"Richly detailed and frequently illuminating."-Rhys Blakely, Times (UK)
"Excellent."-Clare Bucknell, New Yorker
A New Yorker Best of the Week Pick
A provocative and original history of the scientists and writers, artists and philosophers who took drugs to explore the hidden regions of the mind
Until…
Why read it?
1 author picked Psychonauts as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
Mike Jay is the best writer I know of when it comes to highlighting the human stories behind the history of drugs. He is also fabulously engaging and original.
Jay’s most recent book is a compelling history of self-experimentation with drugs, which ranges from Romantic-era opium eaters like Thomas de Quincey to pioneer neuroscientists and Siberian shamans—and, of course, the hilariously weird nitrous oxide experiments of William James, who graces the book’s cover.
From Benjamin's list on the history of drugs.
If you love Psychonauts...
Aggressor
It is April 1st, 2038. Day 60 of China's blockade of the rebel island of Taiwan.
The US government has agreed to provide Taiwan with a weapons system so advanced that it can disrupt the balance of power in the region. But what pilot would be crazy enough to run…
Want books like Psychonauts?
Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 64 books like Psychonauts.
Share your top 3 reads of 2025!
And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.
1,276
readers submitted
so far, will you?
📚 If you like Psychonauts, you might also like...
My Book Boyfriend
Lily loves her community garden. Rupert wants to bulldoze it. When feelings grow, will they blossom or turn to rubble?
"It literally had everything! - Bookworm Characters - Humor - Banter - Swoon-worthy lines." - Book Reviewer.
Everyday Medical Miracles
Frontiers of Women from the healthcare perspective. A compilation of 60 true short stories written by an extensive array of healthcare providers, physicians, and advanced practice providers.
All designed to give you, the reader, a glimpse into the day-to-day activities of all of us who provide your health care. Come…
