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A Book of Secrets

Finding Solace in a Stubborn World

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A Book of Secrets

By: Derren Brown
Narrated by: Derren Brown
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About this listen

Brought to you by Penguin.

The Sunday Times best seller.

Perhaps being happy is not the answer after all.

In this thoughtful and brilliant new book, the internationally best-selling author of Happy considers the value of friction in our lives.

In chapters revealing his own moments of anger and prejudice, anxiety and shyness, loneliness and loss, Derren Brown examines the means to a more rewarding life, be it saving yourself from small talk or navigating middle age. Referencing the ideas of some of the world's great philosophers, he has to wonder if the Greeks were right - unless we tend to all aspects of our lives - our whole flawed natures - the snubbed secreted aspects of ourselves will wreak revenge. Perhaps we need to accept and experience complexity, and allow uncertainty? Is anxiety in fact a pointer for growth? Rather than being true to ourselves, might we instead prioritise better interaction with other people?

Considering these questions leads him to surprising sources of consolation and compassion.

©2021 Derren Brown (P)2021 Penguin Audio Consciousness & Thought Personal Development Personal Success Philosophy Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
All stars
Most relevant  
By far Derren's best and most authentic work. I laughed, I cried, and contemplated. Ausiobooks are always better when read by the author. Loved it!

A book of perfection

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I walked around while listening. Time would often stand still and I’d just be in awe of my surroundings.

I wanted to stop Derren mid-track and ask questions, but the answers came to me anyway through my inner voice, prompted by each tidbit of wisdom. Great advice and a joy to listen to.

Loved it

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Derren Brown always manages to write the most beautiful words as if it was written for each individual reader. Overlook this audio book at your peril.

An splendid and wonderful audiobook

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Great writer
Great narrator
Great subjects and insights
Thank you derren so much!
15 words

Amazing

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i think is good book for listen to when want book for to listening of

good book

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Wonderful reflection on life and filling in the gaps that stoicism leaves us. Gentle and touching humour throughout. A tremendous ability to describe what a virtuous life is and potential paths to take us there.

another cracker

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I enjoyed Darren's narration and drawing from a wide range of philosophy and psychology. Also his kindness in being open about hard times.

Derren Brown is immensely relatable and wise.

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I wanted to like this book as I’m a fan of Derren and his work. It was just verbose waffle. The main points I found I liked were just references to other books (such as Jonathan Haidt). One principle I’ve heard is to avoid coating messages in big words in order to seem smart. This book falls into that trap and the word smithing is just a distraction from the actual message.

Wanted to love it

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