The Little Book of Hygge- The Danish Way to Live Well

 The Little Book of Hygge- The Danish Way to Live Well  by Meik Wiking

A Book Review by Jill from the Winkler Branch

Genre: Self - Help | Pages: 287 | Stars: 5/5 

Tears: 0/5 | Laughs: 4/5 | Mature Content: 1/5

Would you recommend this book to someone, why or why not?

Yes, I would definitely recommend this book to others who would like to learn how to embrace the Danish way of hygge (pronounced hoo-ga).  The author, Meik Wiking, is the founder and CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Denmark and he shares how we can incorporate this feeling of hygge like the Danes do.  The fact that he studies happiness for a living is positive in itself!  The idea of Hygge is described in different ways: a feeling of coziness, security, comfort, no-fuss, togetherness with the people we love, being content, as well as enjoying coffee & cake by candlelight while wearing cozy socks.  That sounds pretty great to me!

How did the author keep you interested throughout the book?

This is a cute little hardcover book with lovely photos, sweet illustrations and the way it is set up is very quaint and inviting.  I looked forward to what the next topic would be about.  The 17 chapters ranged anywhere from Clothing, to Lighting, to Hygge on the Cheap, to Christmas.  And there were even some recipes which were tempting to try!

Did this book change or challenge any preconceived notions you had about the subject?

I have been interested in Eastern European countries for a number of years and this topic intrigued me.  Denmark is known as the happiest country in the world and now I can see why it is ranked that way.  I learned that hygge is more than just cozy socks and candlelight, there is way more to it than that.  Hygge can also be heard, tasted, touched, smelled and seen.  It is not just a winter idea either,  summer hygge is also talked about in the book.  

Have you read anything else on this subject by an author with a different viewpoint?

No, I have not read any specific books on this topic, but I have read articles and listened to some podcasts on the subject.  

Was there anyone in the story, or a statement made that you disagreed with while reading?

I cannot think of anything in particular that I disagreed with in this book.  

What did you learn from this book? Did you find the subject interesting?

I learned that hygge can be incorporated in our lives in many ways and you don't have to live in Denmark to experience it.  Getting outside in nature is also very hygge and something I enjoy doing in every season.  I definitely found this subject fascinating.  The Little Book of Hygge has been my go-to winter inspiration book that I check out of the library at least once a year.  My family and I have welcomed some of these ideas into our own home as well.  Sometimes it is the little things like lighting a candle at mealtimes and slowing down to play a game or work on a puzzle together that can make the day feel more special.  

Did you stop to Google anything while reading this book?

When I was reading this book I did not feel the need to look anything up.  I felt the author did a fantastic job of explaining all aspects of hygge very well.  The pictures in the book gave me a sneak peek of the beauty of Copenhagen, so down the road I might be looking up the cost of plane tickets to travel there though.

Were you satisfied with the overall structure of the book, or could improvements be made?

I loved how this book was arranged!  It was welcoming and easy to follow and well  organized according to the topics and ideas of hygge.  Check it out for yourself and see if you might be inspired to become a little more hygge too.. and you have to agree hygge (hoo-ga) is a fun word to say!