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Summary: Required Reading for Life's Lessons.
Review: Several years ago, Anna Quindlen, was asked by Villanova University to give that years commencement speech. But as the date of graduation approached, Quindlen found herself in a conflict which resulted in her cancelling from attending. A graduating senior, though, wrote to Quindlen asking her for a copy of her speech which then made its way onto the Internet and private e mails. Many readers weren't satisfied with the unbound pages and urged Quindlen to publish this as a book and so A Short Guide to a Happy Life became a book with an interesting story about its birth. But least any reader think this is the end of the story or destination, doesn't know Quindlen that well for within the pages of this small book, she sets her audience on a thought provoking journey which doesn't end when one closes the book.Fueled by the loss of her 40 year old mother when Quindlen was 19, she reflects on how she learned at this early age what is important in life. And not just a life to be lived chained to one's desk or a life which forces one to covet material things but a life of exploration and unbridled happiness. When Quindlen urges her readers to "get a life," she forces them to reevaluate what they find precious and dear. And as Quindlen continues to describe what she finds important, I also found msyelf, as I'm sure most of her readers did, shaking my head in agreement and shedding a tear. If Tuesdays With Morrie explained to many readers how to die with dignity, then this book shows us how to life lives which are meaningful and presonally productive. Quindlen, a long time favorite of mine, beginning with her columns for The New York Times, has written a perfect book not only for a new gradate but a gift of words to be cherished for any age at any time. And now, I will always remember to look at the view!
Rating: 
Summary: Disillusioned
Review: Once an ardent admirer of Anna Quindlen's writing, one true thing is that her pamphlet is a mostly maudlin collection of cliches. I hope that she received permission from those she quoted, yet didn't always credit, for the "reuse" of their material. If you really want to know Anna Quindlen, read anything but this.
Rating:
Summary: Wonderful
Review: A beautifully written essay (combined with exquisite black-and-white photos) about what's really important in life ("It's so much easier to write a resumé than to craft a spirit"). It's very short; it's the kind of book that can be read in one sitting. However, it's also the kind of book that SHOULD be read over and over again. Highly recommended for anyone who's grown tired of the urgency addition that pervades the normal American lifestyle.
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Summary: delightful , Jennifer from Al.
Review: I read this enjoyable book in about 10 minutes. It is filled with gems of wisdom. I especially like the last few pages which I will not give away as so many do on their reviews.
Rating:
Summary: A short book but excellent
Review: I like upbeat books and this is such an excellent motivational book. Short, precise and it's helpful: right to the point. The principles are easy to apply and follow. Another guide to a happy life with content and substance that I found extremely helpful is "I LOVE ME: Avoiding and Overcoming Depression" by Dietmar Scherf.
Rating: 
Summary: Short but Good
Review: The book is sweet, short and goes straight to the fine points. It's all been said before and isn't quite long enough with a few missing areas, but all in all it's a keeper. It'd be nice to read more on children and their impact on our lives and how to deal with real issues that directly affect all individuals and society. For as we all know, and need not forget, kids can make or break our entire spirit and life environment. Anna usually has a strong personality with a little too much perfection for the general public, but like many readers conclude, "variety is the spice of life." So with that said, other books to help guide and enlighten our inner beings, children and spouses would be "A Cup Of Christmas Tea", by Tom Hegg, a book so powerful, all love it for the basic pleasures and hidden treasures of treating each other and elders with respect, "More Prayers On My Pillow," by Celia Straus, to get us through all the little and big thoughts in our lives regarding our daughters, and "Mommy-CEO," by nationally syndicated parenting columnist, of Parent to Parent, Jodie Lynn, a parenting book that saves our sanity with our children and spouses and makes us laugh. All three books resemble Anna's with none being too terribly long which would make sense to buy all four to feel fairly comfortable with life's lessons. Personally, I feel the combination of all four books would enhance life skills to succeed with family, friends and children while making our being on earth whole and happy.
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Summary: Good common sense applied
Review: This is a great little book. It seems like we all know what the aurhor is saying but we need a gentle reminder each day. If you are looking for a gift for a loved one, I would recommend that you buy this book and the book An Encounter With A Prophet and combine the books as one gift. Little is the only negative about the entire book. I wish there was more of it
Rating:
Summary: Not worth a look
Review: I would recommend this book for anyone who loves the cliched one-a-day motivational quotes and has stickers of flowers and puppy dogs stuck around the border of their monitor right now. Anna Quindlen's column in Newsweek forced me to cancel my subscription -- her false intelligence is superficial and unoriginal.
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Summary: Wonderful words to live by!!
Review: Having lost my beloved 12 year old son to brain cancer, I am always drawn to authors who have faced adversity & loss in their own lives. Anna knows in her heart of hearts how to look at the sky for beauty and hope, so she can teach us something....which she certainly does in this wonderful little book. She gives new meaning to the words "get a life"...how to use our losses to help us see the real beauty of each day. I shall certainly buy this book for my college-age daughter. Thanks, Anna!
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Summary: The title says it ALL!
Review: What an absolute gem! If you're looking for the usual self-help, get in touch with your inner child, how-to, been there-know how you feel, flowery books leave this one on the shelf. If you're looking for a real down to earth person with a prescription for developing a no nonsense passion for living, Anna's your girl. Her book is written with style, humor, and grace. No doubt, this is the shortest book I have ever read but one that will certainly leave a lasting impact.
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