While self-help books on the brain tend to focus on improving memory or mood, "The Emotional Life of Your Brain, " written with science journalist Sharon Begley, a former Wall Street Journal reporter, makes the case that we can reprogram our brains to help shed negativity and lead a better and more productive life.

WSJ: Healthy Reader: The Emotional Life of Your Brain

The key: As you play, you're working on your memory, strategy, and spatial skills--all required for improving brain health--at the same time.

CNN: Helpful ways to boost your memory