Whether it's electric lights, addiction to digital devices, or just the fast pace of modern life, one thing is clear: it seems to be getting harder to get a good night's sleep. Almost 50 percent of Americans say they can't get the zzz's they need. To understand why many are sleep deprived, take a deep dive into the body's control center, the brain, and follow the work of researchers who are unraveling the secrets of sleep.

An enlightened approach to insomnia, depressed mood, fatigue, and other sleep-related problems harnesses the power of light therapy to reset the natural clock.

"In [this book], [the authors] show that sufficient sleep and success go hand in hand, and they explain how to get the quality sleep that can help enhance success. Part One is an overview of normal sleep and a look at the importance of sleep for optimal physical and cognitive performance. Part Two covers sleep and athletic performance, and explains research that demonstrates how sleep can help improve mental ability and physical motor skills. Part...