Ikigai- Héctor García and Francesc Miralles

Héctor García and Francesc Miralles' "Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life" delves into the age-old Japanese idea of ikigai and provides helpful tips and methods for discovering happiness, contentment, and a purpose in life. The book explores the fundamentals of ikigai and how they relate to contemporary life, drawing on interviews with Okinawans—a Japanese island known for its longevity and lively community. "Ikigai" encourages readers to develop a sense of purpose and appreciate the small joys that give their lives meaning by guiding them on a voyage of self-discovery through a blend of personal tales, empirical research, and practical guidance.

Theme: As a non-fiction book, it does not have a conventional narrative plot. Rather, the book delves into the idea of ikigai, which is a Japanese term meaning "a reason for being" or "a reason to wake up in the morning".

The writers explore all facets of ikigai, such as its history in Japanese society, its association with longevity and happiness, and useful applications for ikigai in day-to-day living. They incorporate scientific data, philosophical reflections, and interviews with long-living residents of Okinawa, Japan.

The four components of ikigai—what you enjoy, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can get compensated for—are explained to readers throughout the book. To assist readers in discovering their own ikigai and pursuing a life of meaning and fulfillment, the writers offer reflections and exercises.

Review: The book was overall a calming and eye-opening experience, however, it remains as a one-time read. Although the book has many aspects that make it a unique one, the book's idea itself is similar to the general self-help books available in the market. For a single read, the book has good content and was intriguing from the start to finish and I would recommend it to be read by others.