An exploration of the many reasons to remain hopeful in the face of life's disappointments and challenges.

In a world that isn’t short of darkness, there could be few more urgent priorities than to spend time rehearsing for ourselves why life – despite all its challenges – still has so much to offer us; why there are still so many reasons to be hopeful.

Here is a collection of some of the most persuasive arguments for staying on the side of optimism, creativity, kindness, calm and hope. Across a series of essays, we learn why we still have the right to feel purposeful and buoyant despite everything that is challenging: because there is still so much more to discover, because love can triumph sometimes, because we can delight in summer days and the light of dawn, because we are not alone in our suffering, because we are never far from the option of a slice of cake or a bath, because we are very small things in a mighty and beautiful universe and because we don’t require perfection for things to feel good enough.

In a tone that avoids the pitfalls of sentimentality and cynicism, the book urges us to reconnect with our more resilient selves, bidding us to recover faith in what is still possible. At points funny and always encouraging and kind, here is an ideal friend to guide us back to courage and delight.

A TOOL TO ASSIST US IN OUR SEARCH FOR A REASON TO BE: the book is an eclectic collection of short essays on wide-ranging subjects, from an extraordinary encounter between Mick Jagger and an unfamiliar Jesuit priest to the escapism found in Iranian cinema.HOPEFULNESS FOR PESSIMISTS: an honest and accessible guide to navigate us through the darkness to light.ILLUSTRATED THROUGHOUT: with a vibrant mix of artworks, photography and illustration.A HIGHLY RELATABLE BOOK: that offers comfort and support in our darker moments, while guiding us towards an optimistic future.

"This beautifully illustrated collection of essays, anecdotes and arguments makes the case for reconnecting with resilience.  A perfect read for anyone seeking a more hopeful outlook." - Woman's Own

"I really enjoyed this short book exploring hope through art, science and philosophy. It was uplifting without being saccharine with interesting stories and insights." - NetGalley review

"This is a brief, thought-provoking book about the reasons we all can have to be hopeful. Many reasons are introduced with the help of original art or artifacts (e.g., Freud's porcupine). This slim book is not a list of coping strategies, but a philosophical journey through the issues and challenges that with careful examination could give us all reasons to stay hopeful." - NetGalley review 

“Quick read but such a thoughtful book exploring different ways of being hopeful through different avenues like philosophy, beautiful art and scientific reasons. I loved this and gave me good insight to stay hopeful and keep pushing on in this crazy journey we call life. Beautifully written with so many things to give everyone their own experience with this book no matter what you're into.” – NetGalley review 

"This felt like reading kind, articulate, well-put-together encouragement from a good friend." - NetGalley review 

"I love it! What a brilliant, important book! - NetGalley review 

"I really enjoyed this book and will be sharing this with the younger people in my life. I think that it is important to remember the wider scope of humanity when finding yourself overwhelmed or downtrodden with the weight of your own life." - NetGalley review

“My goodness, this book goes through all the negative feelings of life and mediocrity in such a fantastic way. You won't understand until you read it and be enlightened.  It's super short too! Very unique, I felt like I was understood as a human being.” – NetGalley Review

 

"Reasons to Be Hopeful by the School of Life is a must-read for anyone seeking to rediscover the power of hope in their lives. With its blend of practical advice, thought-provoking insights, and heart-warming stories, this book has the potential to transform one's perspective and foster a newfound appreciation for the beauty and resilience of the human spirit.” – NetGalley Review

 

“The book is a masterful compilation of essays, stories, and reflections that delve into various aspects of life, from personal growth and relationships to societal progress and environmental conservation. Each chapter is meticulously crafted, weaving together thought-provoking insights and real-life examples that demonstrate how hope can be found even in the most challenging circumstances.” – NetGalley Review