Helen Russell’s enthusiasm is infectious as she tours the globe to identify what makes people happier. Her tone brims with a sense of mischief, optimism, and earnest authenticity. Russell is careful to explain that she is not concentrating on the world’s happiest places but is creating a catalogue of cultural customs on how to live a good life. At times, the concept is stretched to a point of discomfort—vodka drinking in Russia or anything in Syria, given their horrendous civil war. And while it would be too much to expect Russell to perfectly pronounce all 30 happiness concepts—only three are English—it is a bit problematic to hear one that you do know but do not recognize due to its mispronunciation. A.B. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine

"This attractive, intriguing book-chock-full of colorful illustrations and breezy, informative essays-will be enjoyed by all, young or old."—-BookPage

Helen Russell’s enthusiasm is infectious as she tours the globe to identify what makes people happier. Her tone brims with a sense of mischief, optimism, and earnest authenticity. Russell is careful to explain that she is not concentrating on the world’s happiest places but is creating a catalogue of cultural customs on how to live a good life. At times, the concept is stretched to a point of discomfort—vodka drinking in Russia or anything in Syria, given their horrendous civil war. And while it would be too much to expect Russell to perfectly pronounce all 30 happiness concepts—only three are English—it is a bit problematic to hear one that you do know but do not recognize due to its mispronunciation. A.B. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine