Alain de Botton, in one word, is brilliant. He has the ability to challenge every notion you have ever had in a truly lasting way. It’s natural to think differently about any subject after you’ve just read something contradictory about it, but to continue challenging your beliefs long after that is rare. With de Botton, his writing is so piercing and consuming that you’ll desperately wish to go back to your previous state of ignorance!

He challenges many notions of our personal and social lives, but I particularly loved his take on adultery. Often, most writing on adultery is either ‘lust is bad’ or ‘imma do whatever I want’! I loved how he stayed clear of either of these approaches and skilfully addressed the matter. I’ve definitely been thinking about that part a lot, and it’s the only time any writing on that subject hasn’t made me roll my eyes. 

I found the first half a little non-surprising, as I have read his article, ‘Why You Will Marry the Wrong Person’ and listened to a talk of the same title, both of which were drawn from this book. (The only reason why this rating is missing half a star!) Both are absolutely amazing, by the way!
I loved loved loved the second half and the brilliant way in which he ended the book.
Highly recommend!