It was very interesting to see the different books that promote therapeutic insight and enlightenment and I was positively surprised by some included.

Many of us don’t read books older than a few years, therefore forgetting older books can also still be great resources for all kinds of curious minds. This book is a great resource to read more books from various periods of time for an array topics like psychology, poetry, religion, etc. Many of the books recommended are often only heard/read during college courses (if mentioned at all), but this could help any book lover broaden their options than what’s usually sold or recommended today.

"A Therapeutic Library" is an informative, and easy-to-read reference book containing short yet insightful descriptions of a large number of historical books that have the potential to offer interest and therapeutic value to the reader today. I was intrigued by the variety of the books selected, from Klein and Winnicott to The Highway Code and The Tiger who came to Tea! I think the choices would be great for book club discussion topics. The book would also sit great as a coffee table read. It also added to my 'books to read' list! A must for all book lovers out there who seek self improvement or pleasure through reading.
I am grateful to the publishers and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this lovely book and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.

This would be a great coffee table book! I enjoyed reading about all of these interesting books - most of which I'd never even heard of before, but would probably enjoy reading. It gave me some ideas of titles to add to my TBR pile!

Fulfillment and understanding are what we might describe as "contentment". As we go through life, we need intellectual concepts and narratives to help us understand and feel fulfilled. Do we matter, do we have a purpose, can we look out at the rough and tumble of life and the life around us and yet still be satisfied or at peace? Books have been aiming to do that, build contentment, since books began. This book, A Therapeutic Library, is a broad global and historically long look at the books that we can use as therapy for contentment.

I've never seen a list so broad and one that makes you feel content just reading it. This is a reference work, why do I feel so joyful reading it? Because the authors took the time to dig deep and explain the works and how these books are important to building contentment. To do this they have had to look at the problems we face and say how we might find contentment. In showing the path they begin the journey with you.

I cannot praise this book enough; I cannot recommend it more highly.

I loved this, this was so useful to me! I enjoyed reading about all the books, and I've added many titles to my TBR list thanks to this book! Such a good idea :)

A Therapeutic Library aims to guide the reader through the world of literature and thought to help us to ask ourselves questions about how we should live. The book reminds us that reading the latest books simply because they are on our radar means that we can miss out on a world of thoughts and ideas from centuries and authors past. A thought-provoking and interesting read that is likely to add to your list of books to read and explore.

I have received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. So thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this opportunity!

I have added so many novels from this book to my tbr!
This was a great reading experience as I love this topic. I loved how it talks about books and it has interesting thoughts and descriptions about reading and what it means to different people.
4,5/5

This book took me ages to read. Not because it was difficult or boring but because I wanted to relish every delicious detail. It encompasses so many books and ideas it almost took my breath away. The photos and illustrations are a wonderful added extra. Definately one to buy.

As a dedicated bibliotherapist, I've always held the belief that books are not just vessels of knowledge and stories; they are portals to the vast spectrum of human emotions, offering therapeutic insight and enlightenment. "A Therapeutic Library," curated by The School of Life, is a treasure trove of 100 books that resonate with the very essence of bibliotherapy.

In a world where time is precious and opportunities are limited, this book is a guiding light for those of us who read not only for pleasure but also for emotional guidance and support. The true power of literature lies in its ability to console, inspire courage, and help us discover untapped wellsprings of generosity, confidence, creativity, and resilience. It's a roadmap to healing, a companion in our life's complex, fascinating, and sometimes painful journey.

What makes "A Therapeutic Library" exceptional is its expansive range. Drawing from world literature and spanning across history, it presents a collection of book-friends, some familiar and others waiting to be discovered. These selections are thoughtfully categorized into sections that encompass themes like politics, fiction, religion, history, and philosophy. The aim is clear: to introduce the concept of therapeutic reading, where the act of reading is more than just a pastime—it's a path to leading "less agitated, pained lives."

The book redefines the notion of being "well-read." Instead of measuring our literary prowess by the sheer quantity of books devoured, it encourages us to savor and cherish the ones that impact us profoundly. By choosing well-chosen titles that resonate with our individual needs, we embark on a journey of therapeutic reading. This is the art of reading that, like therapy itself, heals, comforts, and uplifts.

The beauty of "A Therapeutic Library" lies in its versatility. Whether you're seeking solace in the pages of a novel, philosophical insights, spiritual guidance, or a deeper understanding of history and politics, this book provides a curated selection to cater to your unique emotional and intellectual requirements. The School of Life has assembled a collection that speaks directly to our hearts, offering solace and wisdom with each page turned.

As a therapist who specializes in bibliotherapy, I wholeheartedly recommend "A Therapeutic Library." It is not just a book; it's a valuable resource that reminds us of the therapeutic potential that resides within the pages of carefully chosen books. This book is a journey into the heart of bibliotherapy, inviting us to embrace the transformative power of literature and, in doing so, discover the means to lead more fulfilling, enriched lives. It's a profound testament to the idea that books are more than mere words on paper; they are guides, mentors, and true friends in our pursuit of healing and personal growth.