Is it possible to think like the world's most famous fictional sleuth? Yes, says The Lavin Agency's newest speaker Maria Konnikova. The psychology speaker and author of Mastermind: How to Think Like Sherlock Holmes has spent years researching the literary works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and has fused an in-depth study of the legendary character with cutting edge neuroscience to help her audiences adopt Holmes' techniques. Using the detective's strategies of ever-present mindfulness, careful observation and logical deduction, Konnikova argues that anyone can improve their memory, problem solving skills, and creative ability.

Here are some reviews of Konnikova's book, which she distills in her fascinating—and practical—talks:

“Based on modern neuroscience and psychology, the book explores Holmes’s aptitude for mindfulness, logical thinking and observation…shares strategies that can lead to clearer thinking…help people become more self-aware.”
—Washington Post

“Those seeking to understand the neurological and psychological underpinnings of the great detective’s mind will find a knowledgeable guide in Konnikova."
—Barnes & Noble Review

“A delightful tour of the science of memory, creativity, and reasoning, illustrated with the help of history’s most famous reasoner, Sherlock Holmes himself. Maria Konnikova is an engaging and insightful guide to this fascinating material, which will help you master your own mind.”
—Steven Pinker, Harvard College Professor of Psychology, Harvard University, and author of How the Mind Works and The Stuff of Thought

“‘You know my methods,’ Sherlock Holmes once said to Dr. Watson. ‘Apply them!’ Science writer Maria Konnikova has made those instructions the inspiration for what turns out to be a delightfully intelligent book. Using Holmes and Watson as both muse and metaphor, she shows us some of modern psychology’s most important lessons for using our minds well. I probably won’t be able to solve murders after having read Mastermind, but I will have much to reflect on.”
—Carl Zimmer, author of Soul Made Flesh and Parasite Rex