The Year of Living Danishly by Helen Russell
The Year of Living Danishly
Author: Helen Russell
Genre: Non-fiction
Format: Physical
Publish Date: April 2016
Read: March 2019
Favorite Quote: “…understand that success and happiness should be measured by something other than money. That you can work and work to build up your bank balance and then end up spending it all to outsource your life, buying back your sanity and bribing yourself to keep on going.”
Synopsis: As a journalist, Russell set out to discover why the Danes are so damn happy and if this is a genetic quirk or an attitude that can be developed? While her husband embarks upon his dream job, Helen decides to give herself a year to adapt to Denmark. In her investigative quest, she shares everything she’s learned about Danish happiness, from child care, food, mental health, and taxes.
The Year of Living Danishly is part memoir, part travel, and part cultural narrative to show us where the Danes get it right and how we can live more Danishly.
Thoughts & Feelings: I was first introduced to Helen Russell at TravelCon 2018. She was a keynote speaker and spoke eloquently and passionately about not just travel and her life in Denmark but about family, finding herself, and writing. This is a delightful book and a great read as we close out the year.
When Helen Russell had the chance to move from chaotic London to rural Jutland, Denmark, she jumped in with an open mind and heart. While there, Russell discovered that Denmark is the happiest place on earth. Is this because of the long, cold, dark winters? Perhaps the cured herring?
Rating: 4/5 Stars