Title: The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Places in the World
Author: Eric Weiner
First published January 1, 2008
335 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780446580267 (ISBN10: 0446580260)
Rating: 3.84
Overview
Eric Weiner, a former foreign correspondent, has reported from some of the most unstable places in the world. However, he realized that unhappiness inspires pity and good copy, but not good karma.
Thus, Weiner set out to find “unheralded happy places” in his search for true contentment. In his book, The Geography of Bliss, he takes us on a journey across four continents to find the answer to the question: What makes people happy?
With equal parts humor and philosophy, he makes intriguing observations about the way people relate to circumstance and fate. From the unexpected happiness of Iceland and Bhutan to the despondency of Moldova, Weiner examines the factors that contribute to happiness.
Whether you find bliss in the freedom of the West or the restrictions of Singapore, this book offers both inspiration and revelation. With its wry yet profound observations, The Geography of Bliss is a must-read for anyone seeking true contentment.
About the Author
Eric Weiner is a successful author whose books, including THE GEOGRAPHY OF BLISS, THE GEOGRAPHY OF GENIUS, and the recently published THE SOCRATES EXPRESS, have been translated into over 20 languages. Many high schools and universities have incorporated his books into their curricula.
Eric has been recognized with the Borders Original Voices Award and was a finalist for the Barnes & Noble Discover Award.
Prior to his writing career, Eric served as a foreign correspondent for NPR, reporting from over 30 countries and covering significant international events. The Wall Street Journal has praised Eric’s writing, calling him a “prober and questioner” with a “big-hearted humanist” perspective.
Eric regularly contributes to The Washington Post and AFAR magazine, and his work has been featured in The Los Angeles Times and other publications. He also appears on the BBC and NPR’s Morning Edition.
Additionally, Eric is a popular speaker and lecturer.
In his free time, Eric enjoys cycling and eating sushi, particularly Tekka maki. He resides in the Washington, DC area with his wife and daughter, as well as several energetic pets.
Editoral Review
The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Places in the World by Eric Weiner is a non-fiction book that explores the concept of happiness and how it is interpreted in different cultures around the world. Weiner, a journalist and former foreign correspondent for NPR, embarks on a journey to find the happiest places on earth and discovers some surprising truths along the way.
The book is written in a conversational style, with Weiner’s wit and humor shining through on every page. He takes the reader on a whirlwind tour of places like Iceland, Bhutan, and India, examining the cultural attitudes and practices that contribute to or detract from happiness in each location.
Along the way, he meets an eclectic cast of characters, including a Bhutanese monk, a Dutch drug dealer, and a group of happiness researchers in Switzerland. One of the strengths of this book is Weiner’s ability to weave together his personal experiences with a broader analysis of cultural attitudes and historical context.
He digs deep into the cultural roots of happiness in each place he visits, exploring the ways in which history, religion, and social norms impact people’s perceptions of happiness. He’s also not afraid to ask tough questions or confront uncomfortable truths, which makes his journey all the more interesting.
Another strength of the book is the sheer variety of places Weiner visits. While some chapters focus on locations that are traditionally associated with happiness (such as Bhutan), others explore unexpected destinations like Moldova and Qatar.
This variety keeps the book fresh and engaging, as the reader never knows what to expect next. That being said, there are a few weaknesses to this book as well.
Some of the chapters feel a bit disjointed or meandering, lacking a clear narrative throughline. Additionally, while the book touches on some complex cultural issues, it doesn’t always dig as deeply as it could.
Weiner tends to gloss over some of the thornier political or social problems that contribute to people’s unhappiness in certain places. Overall, however, The Geography of Bliss is a highly readable and thought-provoking book that will appeal to anyone interested in the pursuit of happiness.
Weiner’s writing is engaging and humorous, and his insights into the cultural roots of happiness are well worth pondering. While it may not be a comprehensive exploration of global happiness, it’s certainly an enjoyable and enlightening journey through some of the world’s most interesting places.
Rating: 4/5 stars. While there are certainly some weaknesses to this book, it’s hard to deny the charm and intelligence of Weiner’s writing.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fresh perspective on the concept of happiness.
