pronounced “Eeky-guy”

Authors: Hector Garcia & Francesc Miralles

Publisher: PenguinRandomHouse Books (e-book, 2017)

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 What I learned from this book

One of the reasons I decided to weave this review into my book blog fabric is that I just came off editing my own first non-fiction work, and I noticed this book, Ikigai … , might provide some of the answers to several of the questions I touched on obliquely in my book (but, of course, had no intention of providing my readers with any helpful answers!)

I’ve always been curious as to what ingredients comprise mixing the “best cocktail for an extended and fruitful existence.” Unfortunately, at least in my experience of life in the U.S., I’ve seen mostly the opposites – those that shave away years and good health (i.e. a sedentary lifestyle, a poor diet, poor air and water quality, unhealthy climate, congested cities, dangerous crime rates, etc.)

It was nice to learn that there are actually areas of the world where the odds are favorable to a long and happy life!  Learning about “Blue Zones” (areas of the world where the average lifespan is elongated) was eye-opening and a relief to learn about. Perhaps, one day, I will make the effort to integrate some of these locations as stops on future global treks of mine!

What I liked about this book

One of the best qualities of this book is its simplicity. Not to sound patronizing, but, I’ve found that this is the type of book that could easily have lost most readers by using an abundance of unnecessary data, which could very easily have bogged it down and lost the value of making so many of its points clearly and succinctly. 

What I disliked about this book

I had a tough time finding much to dislike about this book.  At first, I thought it might be a bit too general for my taste.  However, once I read the part that recommended to always “try to challenge yourself, but not to the point where it overwhelms you or causes stress” – I knew we had passed the point of a “dull read.”   At that point – early on in the book –  I realized it would be best not to prejudge it as simple, but rather absorb it (like a sponge) with all of its subtle brilliance.

Whom would I recommend to read this book

I think this book should be required reading for most any age.  If you’re a young whippersnapper and want to get the edge on some of the secrets of life, then read it!  If, however, you are getting up in age and want to make some changes in order to have a better chance in a longer and happier life, read it likewise!  It would have been nice to have read it when I was much younger and clueless about how to embrace the “simpler things in life.”

Any thoughts?

A.N.