In this article, we have an honest review of the book Ikigai.
About the Ikigai
Title: Ikigai
Author: Francesc Miralles
Genre: Self-help
Publisher: Hutchinson London
Type: Standalone
Pages: 208
Goodreads rating: 3.8 / 5
This book uncovers the Japanese secret to a long, happy, healthy life. The people of Japan believe that everyone has an Ikigai – a reason to jump out of bed each morning. And according to the residents of the Japanese island of Okinawa – the world’s longest-living people – finding it is the key to a longer and more fulfilled life. Moreover, inspiring and comforting, this book will give you the life-changing tools to uncover your personal Ikigai. Finally, it will show you how to leave urgency behind, find your purpose, nurture friendships and throw yourself into your passions.
Book Review of Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life
I’d heard so much about Ikigai, the book that claims to hold Japan’s secrets to longevity and happiness. Written by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles, this book pulls you into the peaceful and vibrant life of Okinawa, Japan. That’s where folks live remarkably long lives – and not just any kind of long life, but one filled with joy and purpose.
Meaning of Ikigai: A reason to jump out of bed each morning.
As they share in the book, the authors were welcomed into Okinawa and given the chance to interview over a hundred villagers. Ikigai, as they explain, is your “reason for being” – the thing that gives life purpose.
Interestingly, it doesn’t require fame or big achievements. For many Okinawans, it’s something simple: caring for family, tending to the garden, or sharing time with friends.
I went into this book expecting mystical secrets; however, what’s funny is how practical the advice turned out to be. It’s grounded, and there’s no hype or exaggerated claims here. Instead, the authors keep it honest and down-to-earth, delivering everyday practices that are both refreshing and doable.
Now, I’ll admit some of the points might feel a bit familiar, especially if you’ve read other self-help books. Yet the way Ikigai packages these ideas is, well, kind of captivating. You get life advice that feels like it’s coming from a wise grandparent rather than a self-help guru. For this reason, there’s something in that gentle approach that makes you reflect on your own life with a softer, more forgiving lens.
Only staying active will make you want to live a hundred years.
– Japanese proverb, Ikigai
One of the standout parts? It’s a short, easy read. You can finish it in one sitting, and the calm, soothing tone almost feels meditative. In fact, it’s the sort of book that gives you a positive outlook on health, happiness, and finding joy in simplicity.
And let’s talk about how this book blends different cultural insights – it’s not just a straightforward guide but an experience in itself. You get to feel a slice of Okinawan life, understanding why these people are so content. Ikigai takes you right there, making each page both a lesson and a journey.
In the end, Ikigai serves up advice on living a happy life that feels timeless and true. It’s straightforward yet quietly profound. I finished it feeling genuinely uplifted and inspired to think about my own “ikigai” – and I bet you will too.
Conclusion
Rating: 5 / 5
Recommendation: Yes!!!
This book indeed uncovers Japanese secrets to a Long and Happy Life.
About the Author
Francesc Miralles is a Barcelona-based author, journalist, and translator. He is the co-author of Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, with Hector Garcia, published in more than twenty languages. Miralles was born in Barcelona in 1967. After studying journalism at the University of Barcelona, he worked for several magazines and newspapers, including El País and La Vanguardia. He has also written several books on gastronomy, including Barcelona: The Great Restaurant Guide.
Below is the link to buy Ikigai
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