A Year of Living Simply cover art

A Year of Living Simply

The Joys of a Life Less Complicated

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A Year of Living Simply

By: Kate Humble
Narrated by: Kate Humble
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About this listen

If there is one thing that most of us aspire to, it is, simply, to be happy. And yet attaining happiness has become, it appears, anything but simple. Having stuff - The Latest, The Newest, The Best Yet - is all too often peddled as the sure fire route to happiness. So why then, in our consumer-driven society, is depression, stress and anxiety ever more common, affecting every strata of society and every age, even, worryingly, the very young?

Why is it, when we have so much, that many of us still feel we are missing something and the rush of pleasure when we buy something new turns so quickly into a feeling of emptiness, or purposelessness, or guilt?

So what is the route to real, deep, long-lasting happiness?

Could it be that our lives have just become overly crowded, that we've lost sight of the things - the simple things - that give a sense of achievement, a feeling of joy or excitement? That make us happy. Do we need to take a step back, re-prioritise? Do we need to make our lives more simple?

Kate Humble's fresh and frank exploration of a stripped-back approach to life is uplifting, engaging and inspiring - and will help us all find balance and happiness every day.

©2020 Kate Humble (P)2020 Octopus Publishing Group
Environmentalists & Naturalists Mental Health Mood Disorders Personal Development Personal Success Professionals & Academics Psychology & Mental Health Stress Management Happiness Health Feel-Good Inspiring Heartfelt Funny

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Critic reviews

"Simply wonderful." (Ben Fogle)

"Kate's book has the warmth and calming effect of a log fire and a glass of wine. Unknit your brow and let go. It's a treat." (Gareth Malone)

"Kate Humble pours her enviable knowledge into attainable goals. It's a winning combination and the prize - a life in balance with nature - is definitely worth claiming." (Lucy Siegle)

All stars
Most relevant
Absolutely loved this book, a great mix of stories about Kate and the various people who have inspired her quest for a simpler life.

Very enjoyable

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An absolute pleasure to listen to. I loved it! Made lots of bookmarks along the way too. Highly recommend

Inspiring

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I really enjoyed the content of this book, it is energetic and entertaining, but I felt that Kate read it far too fast, which meant it was difficult to keep up and concentrate at times, especially as the subject matter jumps around so much. If it was slower, it would have felt more relaxing and calming to listen to while doing my hand sewing, which would have been more in keeping with the simplicity of life she was describing.
I’m going to have to listen to it again, as I feel I’ve missed a lot.

Interesting and captivating

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I loved this book, it was made all the better by the author reading it herself. I enjoyed it so much I am going to buy a paper copy so I can read it again!

A superb book a must read!

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A lovely read especially at bedtime after a stressful day. Calms the mind and heals the soul.

Calming

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