The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck UK: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life

Mark Manson, who made his name as a blogger, argues that constant positivity is a trap. The publisher's blurb puts the key idea plainly: the route to being happier is to stop trying to be positive all the time and to become better at handling adversity. Manson's real subject is choice. We only have so much care to spend, so the work is deciding what deserves it and letting the rest go.

The tone is blunt, profane and often very funny, but the swearing sits on top of a serious case for taking responsibility, accepting limits and choosing your values with care. Manson writes like a frank friend rather than a guru, which suits anyone worn out by relentless upbeat advice. Readers come away lighter about what they can let go of and clearer about what matters.