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The Wild Why: Stories and Teachings to Uncover Your Wonder
For fans of Brené Brown’s Daring Greatly, Glennon Doyle’s Untamed, and Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic, thisilluminating self-help tool is the perfect book for anyone who yearns to rekindle their own voice.
What is wonder?
Wonder is curiosity and awe put together. We are born with our wonder intact. Why? What? How? Wow! Look at that rainbow! What makes a rainbow? Wonder is what we need to survive and thrive, not just as individuals but also as a civilization. It’s what’s lauded and honored by our society in young children. Until it isn’t.
The Wild Why calls for an illuminating end to this endemic crisis of self, and a return to what we know at birth and need to reclaim. This is a book of teaching, and teaching-spirited stories, all centered on how to find our true self-expression and the wonder that spawns it.
What is wonder?
Wonder is curiosity and awe put together. We are born with our wonder intact. Why? What? How? Wow! Look at that rainbow! What makes a rainbow? Wonder is what we need to survive and thrive, not just as individuals but also as a civilization. It’s what’s lauded and honored by our society in young children. Until it isn’t.
The Wild Why calls for an illuminating end to this endemic crisis of self, and a return to what we know at birth and need to reclaim. This is a book of teaching, and teaching-spirited stories, all centered on how to find our true self-expression and the wonder that spawns it.
- GenresNonfiction
376 pages, Paperback
Published April 8, 2025
21 people are currently reading
3054 people want to read
About the author
Laura Munson
8 books264 followersLaura Munson is the New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author of the novel Willa’s Grove (Blackstone), the memoir This Is Not The Story You Think It Is: A Season of Unlikely Happiness (Amy Einhorn/Putnam 2010) which Book of the Month Club named one of the best books of the year, and the forthcoming book The Wild Why: Stories and Teaching to Uncover Your Wonder. She has been published in nine countries and has been featured in Vanity Fair, Elle, Redbook, Time, Newsweek, Washington Post, Publisher’s Weekly and many other newspapers, magazines, and online venues across the globe.
Laura speaks and teaches on the subjects of empowerment, creative self-expression, and the language of change, at conventions, universities and schools, writing retreats/workshops, and wellness centers. She is the founder of the acclaimed Haven Writing Retreats and has worked with over a thousand people in locales around the United States, and internationally.
Her work has been published in the New York Times ‘Modern Love’ column, and the New York Times Magazine ‘Lives’ column, with a best-of ranking in both columns, O. Magazine, O.’s Little Book of Happiness, Maria Shriver’s Sunday Paper, Redbook, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, Ladies Home Journal, More Magazine, The Sun, The Week, Huffington Post, and many others. She has appeared on Good Morning America, The Early Show, WGN, many NPR stations, Hay House radio, as well as other media including London’s This Morning and Australia’s Sunrise. She lives in Montana with her family
Laura speaks and teaches on the subjects of empowerment, creative self-expression, and the language of change, at conventions, universities and schools, writing retreats/workshops, and wellness centers. She is the founder of the acclaimed Haven Writing Retreats and has worked with over a thousand people in locales around the United States, and internationally.
Her work has been published in the New York Times ‘Modern Love’ column, and the New York Times Magazine ‘Lives’ column, with a best-of ranking in both columns, O. Magazine, O.’s Little Book of Happiness, Maria Shriver’s Sunday Paper, Redbook, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, Ladies Home Journal, More Magazine, The Sun, The Week, Huffington Post, and many others. She has appeared on Good Morning America, The Early Show, WGN, many NPR stations, Hay House radio, as well as other media including London’s This Morning and Australia’s Sunrise. She lives in Montana with her family
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
March 19, 2025
Laura Munson’s The Wild Why is more than just a book—it’s an experience, a guide, and a call to reconnect with creativity, wonder, and authenticity. From the first pages, it felt like an essential read, encouraging deep introspection through both its narrative and its writing exercises.
Munson’s writing is relatable, heartfelt, and engaging, weaving memoir, self-discovery, and practical exercises in a way that feels natural and immersive. The pacing invites readers to slow down and reflect, allowing the book’s themes and wisdom to settle deeply.
At its core, The Wild Why is about writing, creativity, wonder, healing, self-discovery, and authenticity. Munson explores how reconnecting with our innate sense of awe leads to greater self-expression, meaning, and purpose.
This book is not just about finding your voice—it’s about finding your true self with love and acceptance. It’s a journey of having, losing, searching, and ultimately returning home to yourself. Certain passages gave me goosebumps, reinforcing the urge to live authentically, trust my intuition, and embrace creativity as an essential part of life.
If you’re seeking a book that blends memoir, insight, and guided reflection, The Wild Why is one to read slowly, savoring each lesson. It’s thought-provoking, nuanced, and deeply moving—one of those rare books that doesn’t just inspire change but helps you remember who you are.
I appreciate NetGalley and Susie Stangland for the opportunity to read this early copy!
Munson’s writing is relatable, heartfelt, and engaging, weaving memoir, self-discovery, and practical exercises in a way that feels natural and immersive. The pacing invites readers to slow down and reflect, allowing the book’s themes and wisdom to settle deeply.
At its core, The Wild Why is about writing, creativity, wonder, healing, self-discovery, and authenticity. Munson explores how reconnecting with our innate sense of awe leads to greater self-expression, meaning, and purpose.
This book is not just about finding your voice—it’s about finding your true self with love and acceptance. It’s a journey of having, losing, searching, and ultimately returning home to yourself. Certain passages gave me goosebumps, reinforcing the urge to live authentically, trust my intuition, and embrace creativity as an essential part of life.
If you’re seeking a book that blends memoir, insight, and guided reflection, The Wild Why is one to read slowly, savoring each lesson. It’s thought-provoking, nuanced, and deeply moving—one of those rare books that doesn’t just inspire change but helps you remember who you are.
I appreciate NetGalley and Susie Stangland for the opportunity to read this early copy!
May 13, 2025
Book Review: The Wild Why: Stories and Teachings to Uncover Your Wonder by Laura Munson
Laura Munson’s The Wild Why is a luminous exploration of self-discovery, blending memoir, philosophical inquiry, and spiritual guide into a cohesive meditation on reclaiming wonder in a fractured world. As a New York Times bestselling author and founder of the Haven Writing Retreats, Munson brings her signature lyrical prose and hard-won wisdom to this work, which serves as both a personal manifesto and an invitation to readers to reignite their innate curiosity.
The book’s greatest strength lies in its hybrid structure—part storytelling, part teaching. Munson weaves autobiographical vignettes (from her Montana wilderness life to moments of “self-sabotage and contrition”) with universal questions about purpose and belonging. Her reflections on “bonfires” as metaphors for transformation—where we must burn away societal expectations to find our true selves—are particularly resonant. The narrative avoids prescriptive advice, instead offering “teachings” that encourage active engagement, such as journaling prompts and observational exercises rooted in nature.
Munson’s prose is poetic yet grounded, balancing ethereal musings on wonder with gritty honesty about personal failings. However, some sections risk veering into abstraction, especially when philosophical concepts overshadow narrative momentum. The book shines brightest in its quieter moments—like her account of watching a herd of elk at dawn—where the fusion of observation and introspection feels organic.
Thematically, The Wild Why critiques modern society’s “endemic crisis of self,” arguing that reconnecting with nature and creativity can restore wholeness. While this premise isn’t novel, Munson’s distinctive voice and willingness to expose her own vulnerabilities (e.g., confessing to “looking for light in pitch-black corners”) elevate it beyond cliché. The absence of academic citations may frustrate scholarly readers, but the book’s power derives from its raw, experiential authenticity.
Rating: 4.5/5
Section Scoring Breakdown:
-Conceptual Depth: 4.5/5 – Fresh takes on timeless themes, though occasionally abstract.
-Narrative Craft: 4/5 – Elegant prose with sporadic pacing issues.
-Emotional Authenticity: 5/5 – Unflinchingly vulnerable and relatable.
-Practical Application: 4/5 – Teachings are inspiring if sometimes vague.
-Originality: 4.5/5 – A unique blend of memoir and spiritual guide.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Laura Munson, for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Laura Munson’s The Wild Why is a luminous exploration of self-discovery, blending memoir, philosophical inquiry, and spiritual guide into a cohesive meditation on reclaiming wonder in a fractured world. As a New York Times bestselling author and founder of the Haven Writing Retreats, Munson brings her signature lyrical prose and hard-won wisdom to this work, which serves as both a personal manifesto and an invitation to readers to reignite their innate curiosity.
The book’s greatest strength lies in its hybrid structure—part storytelling, part teaching. Munson weaves autobiographical vignettes (from her Montana wilderness life to moments of “self-sabotage and contrition”) with universal questions about purpose and belonging. Her reflections on “bonfires” as metaphors for transformation—where we must burn away societal expectations to find our true selves—are particularly resonant. The narrative avoids prescriptive advice, instead offering “teachings” that encourage active engagement, such as journaling prompts and observational exercises rooted in nature.
Munson’s prose is poetic yet grounded, balancing ethereal musings on wonder with gritty honesty about personal failings. However, some sections risk veering into abstraction, especially when philosophical concepts overshadow narrative momentum. The book shines brightest in its quieter moments—like her account of watching a herd of elk at dawn—where the fusion of observation and introspection feels organic.
Thematically, The Wild Why critiques modern society’s “endemic crisis of self,” arguing that reconnecting with nature and creativity can restore wholeness. While this premise isn’t novel, Munson’s distinctive voice and willingness to expose her own vulnerabilities (e.g., confessing to “looking for light in pitch-black corners”) elevate it beyond cliché. The absence of academic citations may frustrate scholarly readers, but the book’s power derives from its raw, experiential authenticity.
Rating: 4.5/5
Section Scoring Breakdown:
-Conceptual Depth: 4.5/5 – Fresh takes on timeless themes, though occasionally abstract.
-Narrative Craft: 4/5 – Elegant prose with sporadic pacing issues.
-Emotional Authenticity: 5/5 – Unflinchingly vulnerable and relatable.
-Practical Application: 4/5 – Teachings are inspiring if sometimes vague.
-Originality: 4.5/5 – A unique blend of memoir and spiritual guide.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Laura Munson, for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 24, 2025
ARC Review: The Wild Why by Laura Munson
Laura Munson’s The Wild Why is the kind of book that doesn’t just sit quietly on your nightstand — it calls to you. Gently. Boldly. Like the voice you forgot you had, asking questions you forgot you were allowed to ask.
This luminous blend of memoir and guidebook is a call back to the self — not the polished, performative self, but the raw, curious, awe-filled self we were all born with. Munson has an incredible ability to write with both poetic grace and practical grounding. Her words invite reflection, creativity, and a quiet kind of healing that builds page by page.
The wonder she speaks of is not just a concept — it’s a practice. And The Wild Why offers not just inspiration but tangible, gentle invitations to return to the place inside where wonder lives. Through reflective prompts, personal stories, and spiritual inquiry, Munson helps us see that reclaiming our “why” isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity.
This book is best read slowly, with intention. I found myself pausing often, rereading passages, and sitting with questions I didn’t know I needed to ask. It reminded me of the first time I read Untamed or Big Magic — that thrilling sense of being seen and called into something deeper.
If you’ve ever felt disconnected from yourself, or if you’ve lost your sense of creative play, this book will feel like a warm, wild homecoming. I’m so grateful to have read an advance copy — and I’ll be returning to it again and again.
A must-read for anyone on the path of self-discovery, creativity, and reclaiming joy.
Laura Munson’s The Wild Why is the kind of book that doesn’t just sit quietly on your nightstand — it calls to you. Gently. Boldly. Like the voice you forgot you had, asking questions you forgot you were allowed to ask.
This luminous blend of memoir and guidebook is a call back to the self — not the polished, performative self, but the raw, curious, awe-filled self we were all born with. Munson has an incredible ability to write with both poetic grace and practical grounding. Her words invite reflection, creativity, and a quiet kind of healing that builds page by page.
The wonder she speaks of is not just a concept — it’s a practice. And The Wild Why offers not just inspiration but tangible, gentle invitations to return to the place inside where wonder lives. Through reflective prompts, personal stories, and spiritual inquiry, Munson helps us see that reclaiming our “why” isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity.
This book is best read slowly, with intention. I found myself pausing often, rereading passages, and sitting with questions I didn’t know I needed to ask. It reminded me of the first time I read Untamed or Big Magic — that thrilling sense of being seen and called into something deeper.
If you’ve ever felt disconnected from yourself, or if you’ve lost your sense of creative play, this book will feel like a warm, wild homecoming. I’m so grateful to have read an advance copy — and I’ll be returning to it again and again.
A must-read for anyone on the path of self-discovery, creativity, and reclaiming joy.
May 31, 2025
Laura Munson runs a notable writing workshop in Whitefish, Montana, where she lives. Her latest creation is about creativity itself, and it starts with the premise that we are all born with a sense of wonder and awe, critical elements of creativity. We had it when we stomped around in puddles in the rain, when we watched an apricot sunset or simply believed we could accomplish certain things with imagination. Everyone has a voice, but somewhere along the line, Munson contends, whether as a child or later in life, we lose that sense of wonder. Munson not only tells us how to find our inner sense of wonder again ( and banish the critter inside who tells us we can’t) but she shows us, with step by step prompts that can help everyone reignite the feeling of being alive in this wondrous world. Even on the days it doesn’t feel so wonderous. Munson mines moments from her own life to remind us we aren’t alone. It’s the best kind of instructional, inspirational, how-to memoir out there.
June 20, 2025
As we grow, many of us lose the endless curiosity and wonder that we had when we were children. Children have innate wonder. They wonder and ask why. The observe the world with awe. They live in the moment.
Slowly, many children learn to hide their wonder. Adults around them may put them into survival mode, crush the wonder, grow impatient with the awe and questions, and squish the wonder down.
Our lives become more hectic and wonderless and dull when our wonder lies buried. However, we can unearth it and allow it to brighten our lives.
The author guides us on a journey to uncover our wonder and our wild why. If you've found yourself struggling and feeling disconnected, pick up this book. It's one to savor and return to. It's inspiring and can change your life for the better.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC! I will be purchasing a hard copy of this book so that I can re-read it, underline important parts, and return to the questions.
Slowly, many children learn to hide their wonder. Adults around them may put them into survival mode, crush the wonder, grow impatient with the awe and questions, and squish the wonder down.
Our lives become more hectic and wonderless and dull when our wonder lies buried. However, we can unearth it and allow it to brighten our lives.
The author guides us on a journey to uncover our wonder and our wild why. If you've found yourself struggling and feeling disconnected, pick up this book. It's one to savor and return to. It's inspiring and can change your life for the better.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC! I will be purchasing a hard copy of this book so that I can re-read it, underline important parts, and return to the questions.
April 14, 2025
This is a really thought provoking book where every page has something to make you think and slow down. Ms Munson has written a part memoir, part self help book, part investigation into why we lose our sense of awe. I will be trying some of the journaling ideas which are presented at the end of each chapter.
There is a lot of honesty here and a lot of introspection but the themes are universal. I was that child who was told to shut up because I "ask too many questions"… so it was lovely to realise that others had similar experiences.
I’ve bought some of Jim Harrison’s favourite pens and one of his books because he is obviously held in high esteem by Ms Munson and that’s good enough for me.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley
There is a lot of honesty here and a lot of introspection but the themes are universal. I was that child who was told to shut up because I "ask too many questions"… so it was lovely to realise that others had similar experiences.
I’ve bought some of Jim Harrison’s favourite pens and one of his books because he is obviously held in high esteem by Ms Munson and that’s good enough for me.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley
April 28, 2025
Laura Munson's THE WILD WHY is the perfect book for those of us who learned to swallow our questions and the others who never stopped asking why, looking for wonder in our lives, and enjoying nothing more than surrendering to awe. Throughout this inspiring book, I paused to consider, to see the world around me and reconsider my own life and habits with its practical, down to earth practices and encouragements to create, write, explore, and take pleasure in presence. I'd recommend this book for everyone interested in living a fuller, more embodied life and creator of the reality they co-create with the world. I received a copy of this book and these thoughts are my own, unbiased opinions.
July 5, 2025
The Wild Why is like having a breath of fresh air run through your body. Laura Munson shows us the way to our younger selves when we saw the world through the lens of curiosity. She shares childhood stories of when she had her "wonder" and the times in her life when she lost it.
It reads like a divine memoir mixed with prescriptive moments for the reader to look inside themselves. A thoughtful, refreshing study into our human psyches and demonstrates that wonder is still available to all of us.
A wonderful read where you will feel hugged throughout.
It reads like a divine memoir mixed with prescriptive moments for the reader to look inside themselves. A thoughtful, refreshing study into our human psyches and demonstrates that wonder is still available to all of us.
A wonderful read where you will feel hugged throughout.
October 5, 2025
a memoir / self-help / inspirational book about reclaiming your self (not yourself…although, that too). So many of us were raised to be seen and not heard, to tamp down on our emotions and ignore who we are in favor of who people wanted us to be. This book is a lot like The Artist’s Way or Untamed or Keep Moving, in that Munson encourages you to look at who you were as a child, who you are now, why there may be a disconnect between the two. It’s a cry to find yourself again and become who you are.
July 17, 2025
I flew through this as Munson’s writing is easy to get lost in. I found her story to be relatable on a number of levels; her desire to relinquish fear and self-criticism and savor presence, awe in nature and creativity. I like the idea of wonder growing love’s power to walk away from the “Tiger” and while I appreciated the exercises to reflect and get curious as part of my own self-examination, I mostly loved the story. She took my hand and I followed.
September 20, 2025
This book is part memoir, part guidance on finding one's wonder again. Laura Munson candidly shares her experiences of losing, then regaining, her wonder. Woven throughout her story, she provides advice and exercises for readers to explore what's holding them back and how to fully embrace their wonder.
October 30, 2025
A heartfelt guide to rediscovering wonder...
The Wild Why is an inspiring read that encourages readers to reconnect with their natural curiosity and awe.
At times, it can feel a bit repetitive, but the overall message is powerful and deeply encouraging.
A beautifully written reminder to nurture curiosity and let wonder guide your life.
The Wild Why is an inspiring read that encourages readers to reconnect with their natural curiosity and awe.
At times, it can feel a bit repetitive, but the overall message is powerful and deeply encouraging.
A beautifully written reminder to nurture curiosity and let wonder guide your life.
April 18, 2025
I had to continue sitting this book down to write, which I’ve had no desire or ability to do in well over a decade. It wasn’t even my consideration when I picked up this book. I hope this leads more people to ask questions and find their why. Thankful to be an ARC reader.
July 7, 2025
The first 115 pages I was thinking 5 Star review, but I'm not huge on memoirs, I was limited on time and the end of the book didn't entice me to keep fully reading. Probably a 5 star book for most who enjoy that. Overall, great book. Worth reading.
March 18, 2025
3.75⭐️
[a copy of this book was provided to me by the published from netgalley. thank you!]
just didn’t pull me in like good memoirs tend to do.
[a copy of this book was provided to me by the published from netgalley. thank you!]
just didn’t pull me in like good memoirs tend to do.
March 31, 2025
I love a good memoir, but I couldn't get into this one.
April 9, 2025
Full review.
As someone who learns best by sitting, wondering, and asking endless questions, I can’t help but feel that the loss of time to wonder is a disservice to humanity. Then, reading The Wild Why feels like sitting down with a friend who truly understands the joy of wondering. Munson gently reminds us to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the beauty of curiosity.
In a world obsessed with speed and productivity, her message feels like a breath of fresh air. Wonder isn’t just about self-growth. But it’s what makes us human. This book encouraged us to reflect on the little truths that shape our lives and how curiosity can foster deeper connections.
A must-read for anyone yearning to bring a bit of wonder back into their world.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my review.
As someone who learns best by sitting, wondering, and asking endless questions, I can’t help but feel that the loss of time to wonder is a disservice to humanity. Then, reading The Wild Why feels like sitting down with a friend who truly understands the joy of wondering. Munson gently reminds us to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the beauty of curiosity.
In a world obsessed with speed and productivity, her message feels like a breath of fresh air. Wonder isn’t just about self-growth. But it’s what makes us human. This book encouraged us to reflect on the little truths that shape our lives and how curiosity can foster deeper connections.
A must-read for anyone yearning to bring a bit of wonder back into their world.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my review.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews