Happy cover art

Happy

Why More or Less Everything Is Absolutely Fine

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Happy

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

Brought to you by Penguin.

The audiobook edition of Happy, read by Derren Brown.

Everyone says they want to be happy. But that's much more easily said than done. What does being happy actually mean? And how do you even know when you feel it?

In Happy Derren Brown explores changing concepts of happiness - from the surprisingly modern wisdom of the Stoics and Epicureans in classical times right up until today, when the self-help industry has attempted to claim happiness as its own. He shows how many of self-help’s suggested routes to happiness and success – such as positive thinking, self-belief and setting goals – can be disastrous to follow and, indeed, actually cause anxiety.

Happy aims to reclaim happiness and to enable us to appreciate the good things in life, in all their transient glory. By taking control of the stories we tell ourselves, by remembering that ‘everything’s fine’ even when it might not feel that way, we can allow ourselves to flourish and to live more happily.

©2016 Derren Brown (P)2018 Penguin Audio Career Success Motivation & Self-Improvement Personal Development Personal Success Happiness Career Inspiring Funny

Critic Reviews

"Deeply informative, moving, wise and full of love." (Alain de Botton)

"Crammed with wisdom and insight.... I'm going to recommend it to everyone I know." (Stephen Fry)

"Witty, useful and beautifully written." (The Sunday Times)
All stars
Most relevant  
A valuable collection of knowledge and advice. A useful perspectives on life. Interesting and well-narrated.

Think differently about life

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"Happy" is an utterly incredible book which will stay with you long after your finished listening

brilliant

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A well thought-out and articulated modern summary of timeless philosophies summarising stoicism. Principles laid out make sense to me and are steering me and my story to a happier place that makes sense. Derren is great to listen to and has put a lot of work and thought into this. Top 5 books of all time for me. Thanks Derren

Very insightful and helpful

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Great listen, some truths in this that I think deep down we already know but need to be reminded of. Love how stoicism is referenced so much.

Really loved this book

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I wasn't sure what to expect from the "TV magician" but soon found myself quite taken with Derren's way of explaining complex problems in a light hearted, comical but a very educational way.
It's on my "listen again" list, which not many books make.

Fantastic book

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I really do mean it. There is not a single sentence in this book which I did not find insightful or meaningful. It is a book which provides tools that help to create a life which is ultimately more fulfilling and honest. It is a book I can see myself coming back to time after time and I was astounded to realise how often I was awestruck I was by this fantastic work. Please do yourself a favour and read this, then pass it on to those you love. You will not regret it.

The best book I have ever come across

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Darren does a fine enough job of guiding us through many aspects of life, in order that we might be a little more mindful of its inevitable outcome along the way. He does so intelligently and short of somewhat frequently repeating themes at times, theres ample very recognisable bits and pieces that most people will find entertaining.
Recommended for any who enjoys both the genre and Darren's rather unique style of presentation.

A Comprehensive Guide To A Happier Existence

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hard to listen to with the style of writing and use of his words, but stuck with it, found it funny and educational

great information, sometimes hard to listen to

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This was a delight to listen to. It's a neatly laid out journey through philosophical history, and ways we can apply this to every day. And hearing Darren browns words read in his own voice offer a certain kind of special touch to it too. I will no doubt be turning to this book again and again throughout my life.

love it

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Many a late nights I found myself unable to shut off this insightful, beautiful book.

Bravo

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