We are defined by stories. They underlie our convictions and beliefs, characters and tastes. Thousands of years ago, the ability to compose exciting stories helped us spread across the planet, maintain contact, draw and erase the boundaries between tribes. And more recently, writing books, making films and inventing virtual worlds.

But why do we love stories so much? The answer lies in the structure of our brain. Using the latest in neuroscience, Will Storr explains that the roots of Shakespeare's worldwide fame lie in evolution, the strength of Citizen Kane and American Beauty, and what we can learn from ourselves. According to Storr, the life of every person is a brilliant script, only it is not written by higher powers, but by our brain, every minute filling what is happening with meaning and purpose. The Inner Narrator redefines the art of writing and screenwriting and shows how stories are born in our heads - and how the authors of blockbusters and literary masterpieces manipulate the deep layers of the subconscious.

Beware: spoilers! The book reveals the plot of "King Lear", "Hamlet", "Revolutionary Road", "Lolita", "Lawrence of Arabia" and others.