5.0

Yet another wonderful book I've had the pleasure of reading...

Have to admit that what drew me first to this book was the subtitle ending: "people who can't stand positive thinking". Such a brilliant way to describe myself. I know :)

The book wasn't an all-out assault against "self-help" books as I'd expected (not that it would've hurt), rather a critical look at why this absurd emphasis on positive thinking, visualization and self-affirmation might itself be an hindrance towards achieving "Happiness". The book explores brilliantly different ways to look at "being happy" and Happiness in general.

The author draws a Lot of inspiration from Stoicism and Buddhism throughout the book. Surprisingly too: Eckhart Tolle and Allan Watts, much to my delight.

I must mention too, yet another book I've read this year that challenges the notion of "self". Huh! :)

Overall, I found the book highly delightful, informative and insightful. Highly recommend it to anyone who needs a "self-help" book that doesn't involve positive thinking or equally ghastly: setting goals.