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The Happiest Man on Earth

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The Happiest Man on Earth

By: Eddie Jaku
Narrated by: Jacek Koman
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About this listen

WINNER OF THE ABIA BIOGRAPHY OF THE YEAR 2021

Life can be beautiful if you make it beautiful. It is up to you.

Eddie Jaku always considered himself a German first, a Jew second. He was proud of his country. But all of that changed in November 1938, when he was beaten, arrested and taken to a concentration camp.

Over the next seven years, Eddie faced unimaginable horrors every day, first in Buchenwald, then in Auschwitz, then on a Nazi death march. He lost family, friends, his country.

Because he survived, Eddie made the vow to smile every day. He pays tribute to those who were lost by telling his story, sharing his wisdom and living his best possible life. He now believes he is the 'happiest man on earth'.

Published as Eddie turns 100, this is a powerful, heartbreaking and ultimately hopeful memoir of how happiness can be found even in the darkest of times.

Now featuring an inspiring new Afterword

SHORTLISTED FOR THE ABA NIELSEN BOOK BOOKSELLERS' CHOICE - ADULT NON-FICTION BOOK OF THE YEAR 2021
SHORTLISTED FOR THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS FOR NON-FICTION 2021
LONGLISTED FOR MATT RICHELL AWARD FOR NEW WRITER OF THE YEAR 2021

©2020 Eddie Jaku (P)2020 Macmillan Australia Audio 20th Century Historical Jewish Heritage Military Modern Inspiring War Heartfelt Thought-Provoking Funny

Critic Reviews

"This simple, moving account of a remarkable life offers plenty to think about and reflect on...Highly recommended." (Canberra Weekly)

"I have never met Eddie Jaku, but having read his book I feel like I have made a new friend...This is a beautiful book by a truly amazing man." (Daily Telegraph)

"A reminder of the power of love, kindness and hope...A life-affirming story, beautifully told." (Sydney Morning Herald)
All stars
Most relevant  
This is an amazing book, although Eddie and his family endured such terrible things, Eddie is such an inspiring man and honestly put a lot into perspective as to how lucky we are, even in this troubling year of 2020
Thank you Eddie for sharing your story. I want to hug you!

This is a must read!

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This was a wonderful book. Simple, honest and full of hope. It really brought me back to the things that matter the most. I Highly recommend it.

A wonderful book

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What an incredibly moving and inspiring. I started it and finished it in one go. If anyone needs a little bit of a perspective adjustment I urge you to get it into your ears. Heartbreaking, but joyful.

Everyone should read this book!

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This book deserves 10 stars. What an amazing human and incredible story.
I was spellbound, heartbroken and in awe of Eddy and his compassion, wisdom and remarkable grace.
A must read for everyone. It’s life changing and thought provoking…. What a life he lived.
This story and it’s hero will stay with me always.

Breathtaking, heartbreaking, life changing.

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Eddie's story made us aware of the atrocities that millions suffered at the hands of the Nazis. This book was so well read ny the narrator, it felt that you were sitting next to Eddie while he relayed his story. What a wonderful and inspiring man.

Sad but inspiring

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Great book great but sad story loved ever minute. Eddie is a true gentleman of the world

Absolute quality

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Inspiring, reflecting, engaging, inspirational, integre, honest, gracious, noble, truthful, courageous, revolting, hopeful, beautiful, faithful, beautiful

best book of 2021

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Absolutely loved it!
Emotional, beautiful, educational, thought provoking.
Excellent choice of narrator. Would listen again

Everyone should read/listen to this book

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This storey is beautifully told. heartbreaking, descriptive, real and a provider of hope. Highly recommended for everyone.

A must read!

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My husband and I listened to this book, a we travel across Australia, what an incredible man you are Eddy. Next time I think I'm having a bad day, your story will come to mind. .. We are inspired to stay happy, be kind... And always smile

Life changing

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