This Book is Cute: The Science and Culture of Aww

Ever wonder why some creatures just make you want to cuddle them? Well, tear yourself away and join us in the science lab to discover why CUTE is just so darn irresistible! Those adorable big eyes. Those floppy ears! And that soft velvety fur. Welcome to the soft and squishy science of cute! In this book, we’ll take a look at what actually makes something cute, what happens inside our brains when we see something cute, and why we’re biologically hardwired that way. We’ll also explore why some brands, products, and characters have been such sensational hits through the ages.

Get ready for cute overload as we look at lots of awww-dorable images to explore why babies, puppies, and other small fluffy animals with round faces and big eyes are universally adored (and why others are less so). Flynn explains the psychology and physiology behind our responses and answers questions, such as what influence does our culture or environment have? We’ll also take an up-close look at crazes today, from the cutest animals ever to Internet sensations. Let the squealing commence!