Feb 12
Feb 12 Wall Street Journal reviews The Power of Meaning

"This is not a book about how to be 'happy.' In fact, it’s a persuasive attack on the idea that happiness is a goal we should aim for in life. A search for happiness is destined to fail, Ms. Smith suggests, for such a search is self-centered. But by finding meaning outside ourselves, we can thrive." An "elegant," "helpful," and "valuable" book. Read the full review from the Wall Street Journal here.

Jan 14
Jan 14 TED - The Two Kinds of Stories We Tell About Our Lives

Emily Smith

We’ve all created our own personal histories, marked by highs and lows, that we share with the world — and we can shape them to live with more meaning and purpose.

Jan 8
Jan 8 New York Magazine

Emily Smith

The Power of Meaning is featured in the article, "15 Books That Will Nurture Your Nerdier Side in 2017" by Melissa Dahl. Read the full article here.

Jan 8
Jan 8 The American Conservative - Rod Dreher

Emily Smith

In his article, "The Story of Your Life," which focuses on The Power of Meaning's fourth chapter, "Storytelling," Rod Dreher writes, "Smith—a wonderful, engaging writer writes about the ways that all of us search for meaning.. [and] offers clear, compelling, and above all useful advice for how to live with meaning and purpose.”

Dec 31
Dec 31 Publishers Weekly

Emily Smith

“An enlightening guide to discovering meaning in one’s life… Smith persuasively reshapes the reader’s understanding of what constitutes a well-lived life.”

—Publishers Weekly

Dec 31
Dec 31 Kirkus Reviews

Emily Smith

“Thoughtful… Underscoring the power of connection, the author assures readers that finding meaning is not the result of ‘some great revelation’ but rather small gestures and humble acts.”

—Kirkus Reviews

Oct 12
Oct 12 Susan Cain

Emily Smith

“Beautifully written and rigorously researched, The Power of Meaning speaks to the yearning we all share for a life of depth and significance. In a culture constantly shouting about happiness, this warm and wise book leads us down the path to what truly matters. Reading it is a life-transforming experience.”

—SUSAN CAIN, author of Quiet

Oct 12
Oct 12 Barry Schwartz

Emily Smith

“This powerful, beautifully written book weaves together seamlessly cutting-edge psychological research, moving personal narratives and insights from great literature to make a convincing case that the key to a good life is finding or creating meaning.”

—BARRY SCHWARTZ, author of The Paradox of Choice; emeritus professor of psychology, Swarthmore College

Oct 12
Oct 12 Darrin M. McMahon

Emily Smith

“The search for meaning just got a little easier, and a little more fun. To follow Emily Esfahani Smith in this great human quest is to undertake a rewarding journey with a sure-footed guide.”

—DARRIN M. MCMAHON, author of Happiness: A History; Mary Brinsmead Wheelock Professor of History, Dartmouth College

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