I felt like I was there with these great men as they shared their stories and wisdoms. Grateful for this read— especially, a deep dive of the 8 pillars and the mediation practices at the end.

This book makes you rethink how we perceive joy and happiness, suffering and pain, and many more emotions. You do not need to be spiritual nor religious to have a deep connection with this book and its ideas. Religious, spiritual, and scientific ideas are shared, but most importantly the Dali Lama and Archbishop’s thoughts and teachings come from deep thought, years of philosophizing, and a true desire to spread joy to others in the most open and accepting way.

This book is a must read!

A wonderful book written with gentle humor and difficult realities. This book is a comfort and guide to a healthy mind and mood. I have enjoyed reading it and relishing a few pages at a time. I rarely read books twice but I will keep this one to read repeatedly to keep my mind returning to a healthy, kind state.

Read it!

I was disappointed when this book ended, that's how good it is. It's not really a set help book, and it's not exactly about the Dahlia Lama and the Archbishop telling you how to live your life. It's more of a series of conversations they have with the writer. It's such a great book and the warm relationship shared by both parties. It warmed my heart and made me chuckle a few times =) =)

Pulls things into perspective

When I watch a master of a craft I remind myself I'm watching decades of hard-earned knowledge shaped by repetitious practice in action. The master chef who makes slicing and dicing looking like a ballet between cutting and cooking. The master artist who with what appears to be a few simple strokes of their arms, brush, legs or pen creates a feeling that opens my heart and feeds my soul. The master wordsmith who molds words into meaning such that the meaning I feel leaves me speechless. The depth and breadth of skill, wit and wisdom displayed between the front and back cover of The Book Of Joy crafted by Douglas Abrams is mastery in motion. Abrams encyclopedic alchemy mixes science with spirit, knowledge with wisdom bound by stories both personal and profound. Each page offers a banquet of insights such that I'm glad I put down the pencil I usually use to underline meaningful passages. Every page is littered with notable quotes. Quotes that'll most likely show up in social memes as more readers embrace more joy inspired by this book of joy! I live a simple life. My worldly possessions fit in three standard suitcases. I travel the world to learn, laugh and grow while I teach classes focused on re-awakening one's sense of worth. The printed edition of the Book Of Joy will now travel with me. True an e-book consumes less space. A printed book requires no batteries or wifi access! May your journey into the breadth and depth of joy lead by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and his compassion compatriot the Archbishop Desmond Tutu skillfully served by Douglas Abrams inspire an ear-to-ear endless smile!