3 stars (A critique of the Art of Happiness) - Happiness is not a goal that can be achieved through seeking. No search has ever realized happiness because the very activity of seeking confirms unhappiness. Therefore, whatever your state in the moment, it must be transcended in present happiness. If you find yourself seeking then you are not presently happy are you? This whole notion about the pursuit of happiness is completely false. You must give up the search and then you realize that you are already happy. So the Dalai Lama is recommending the traditional error of seeking and whatever else he recommends as useful practical advice is tainted by this initial premise. Funnily enough, when asked if he is happy, he says yes, so if he is happy, what need is there to seek? A better teaching would be to point out that everyone is already seeking; for money, power, sex, good food, whatever, and finding that the search is never satisfied. The point is not to channel that activity and search for spiritual satisfaction. The point is to understand that seeking is suffering. I say, "You cannot become happy. You can only be happy!" 1 stars (Did Not Recieve) - I never recieved the book. I had ordered two from Abebooks, one was no longer available after it was charged to my account, and the other one was also charged to my account but never arrived. I will not order books from Amazon again. 5 stars (Make peace with your emotions) - I enjoyed this book immensely and learned a great deal from it. The Dalai Lama's perspective on emotions and mindfulness is enlightening and full of wisdom. In the same purchase I bought another book I was referred to that is endorsed by The Dalai Lama called "The Emotional Intelligence Quick Book." It's really great for learning specifically about EQ and increasing your own. ... Riverhead Hardcover :: Religion & General :: Religious life :: Religious aspects :: Religious Life (Buddhism) :: Religion :: Psychology :: Personal Growth - Happiness :: Happiness :: Doctri :: The Art of Happiness- A Handbook for Living