A Short Guide to a Happy Life
by Anna Quindlen
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other reviews (showing 1-20 of 425)
Read in October, 2005
I finished this book in an instant, yesterday at night. I couldn't form a definite opinion on it. The book is too small; when I start getting into the reading, the book ended. It's too short, it reads too fast, and didn't allow me to understand very well the purpose of it, what the author intended with it. Doesn't seem to be an opinion shared by many, who loved this little book, but I thought that, when it seemed the book was beginning, it ended abruptly. Maybe it's because I'm not used to these...more
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this book was first realized as a speech given at by Ms. Quindlen at my college commencement. in the past 10 years i have read and re-read these words that i still recall so fondly. the experiences in my life have allowed me to see the intelligence and honor in anna's words; the worth of success that is measured in no other terms than the family that surrounds me; and the nummber of times a day i can smile for no reason whatsoever. it is a constant source of strength and a reminder that happiene...more
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Read in August, 2007
recommends it for:
Everyone
This is a great little book - we're talking a 15 minute read. Filled with tons of little quotes, inspirations and touching photos, this book reminds you to slow down and not take the little things in life for granted. Some of my favorite quotes of the book include:
Yogi Berra: "When you come to a fork in the road, take it!"
"No man ever said on his deathbed I wish I had spent more time at the office."
"If you win the rat race, you're still a rat."
John ...more
Yogi Berra: "When you come to a fork in the road, take it!"
"No man ever said on his deathbed I wish I had spent more time at the office."
"If you win the rat race, you're still a rat."
John ...more
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Read in February, 2008
My mom gave me this book to read. I sat down to start it and finished it in the same sitting. It is only about 20 paragraphs long or so, so it is definitely an easy read. It's about focusing on the important things in life instead of getting caught up in the most demanding things. It's good for those moments when you need a quick refocusing of priorities. Read it if you get the chance.
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Read in April, 2008
recommended to Rosie by:
my in-laws shelfrecommends it for: the upbeat... or those wishing they were
Short is right- I read it in about 10 minutes sitting on the office floor. This book made me realize that the book of hers I read years ago was actually semi-autobiographical. She advises us all to get a life. "You are the only peron alive who has sole custody of your life...not just the life of your mind, but the life of your heart. Not just your bank account, but your soul."
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Read in January, 2004
recommends it for:
everyone
One of my favorite books by one of my favorite authors. A 5-10 minute read (to read & RE-read) on an approach to life I whole-heartedly endorse. Some of the observations may seem trite but, for me, they really hit home. One of those books you'd give/recommend to anyone you care about...
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Read in September, 2007
Cool compilations of this author's thoughts on happiness, it has many of her best quotes from commencement speeches she has given. Just a little book to sit out and read every now and then to keep you focused on what is really important. you can read it in about 15 minutes. really good.
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Read in August, 2005
recommends it for:
Everyone
Not only would benefit from reading this book but I think it's a NECESSITY that everyone reads this book; even those who don't like to read. (An added benefit: it takes about fifteen minutes)! Anna Quindlen is a powerful author. You won't regret the fifteen minutes spent.
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Read in July, 2005
I give this book out as a gift to graduates OFTEN. It is a commencement speech that she never got to give, and is it a good one. Highly recommend - quick read. You will keep it on your book shelf as the go to book for advice and refer to it always.
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Read in September, 2007
recommends it for:
anyone
In less time than it took to finish my cup of coffee I had read this book. And yet in that short time, my outlook had been refocused. This is the perfect little speech for reminding me to refocus on my priorities and let all the other stuff go!
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This is one of those books that you're essentially issued upon graduation from high school or college. They are totally pointless. I'm a little shocked I even lobbed two stars at it. Because seriously -- a happy life according to who?
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Read in September, 2007
This book really contained no new insight. I can save you $12.95 and about 7 minutes of reading by telling you the premise is stop and smell the roses...take some time and enjoy the view, yadda, yadda, yadda...snore.
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Read in January, 2007
recommends it for:
anyone
I think about this book just about every day now.. it really changed how I think about the decisions I am making. A very inspiring, quick read... and it`s mostly a picture book! Who wouldn`t love that?
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Read in May, 2006
I think this is a transcript of a graduation speech she gave, but Quindlen is dead on without being preachy. Teeny little book. The inspiration-susceptible part of me was inspired.
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recommends it for:
everyone I know
In the 10 minutes it takes to read this book, you get something well worth the $12.95 it costs--life perspective. It's a lovely read and a gentle guide to living a blissful life.
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recommended to Misty by:
Amelia
recommends it for: Anyone who occasionally forgets what's important in life.
recommends it for: Anyone who occasionally forgets what's important in life.
I love, love, love this book. I keep it beside my bed and pick it up whenever I'm feeling a little too stressed or a little too unhappy. It helps me put things into perspective.
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Read in September, 2006
I don't own this book but at least once a year I try to read it in a bookstore. Concise and honest, it accomplishes what "Tuesdays with Morrie" was attempting.
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I love Anna Quindlen's non-fiction. Her fiction, however, I'm not a big fan of. But oh her essays, they are good enough to read out loud and savor... :)
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The perfect gift book. And just a great little book. Keep it on the coffee table, the nightstand, bathroom counter...and remember why life is good!
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Read in May, 2002
I received this book for my college graduation. I still pick it up every now and again to remind me of what is really important in life.
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