Private History of Happiness

Instead of advocating the latest guide or formula to achieve happiness, A Private History of Happiness offers a fresh look at everyday moments of joy as they were experienced by real people--across many centuries and from around the world--and invites us to discover the happiness in our own lives.

“"This is more than a book, it is a celebration. . . . Across the barriers of time and culture, it collects for us in the simplest, most restful, most seductive way, the goodness of what it is for us to experience life as sentient human beings." Phyllis Tickle, compiler of The Divine Hours”

"It can be said of few books that they make the world a less lonely place: this is one. Read it and be inspired, delighted and cheered; give it and create more happiness.' --Clare Brant, professor, King's College London, author, "Eighteenth-Century Letters and British Culture"
"It turns out that unpretentious, small joys have been shared by human beings across cultures and over thousands of years; in his sensitive commentaries, Myerson brings these precious past moments back to life, and into our lives." --Harry Eyres, columnist, "Financial Times"
"This book is about moments when we are surprised by quiet joy in the everyday wonders of the world. . . . Overflowing with the simple pleasures of life, this is a book to take with you on your travels and to bring home like a friend." --J. Edward Chamberlin, Professor Emeritus, University of Toronto, author, "If This Is Your Land, Where Are Your Stories?"
"This is more than a book, it is a celebration. . . . Across the barriers of time and culture, it collects for us in the simplest, most restful, most seductive way, the goodness of what it is for us to experience life as sentient human beings." --Phyllis Tickle, compiler of "The Divine Hours"

George Myerson has published a number of books on ancient and contemporary culture, and modern thought. He holds a PhD in English from Cambridge University, and was a reader in English at King's College London.

This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.