Excellent book, read it 3 times in the past year, 15/10
933870
This is an absolutely wonderful book. It's so good that I'm having trouble finding another book with the same writing style and creativity of plot to read for my next book. If any reviewers know a book that's preferably not just Southern-themed and is extremely well written like GWTW I would love to hear your suggestions :)
1512804
This is a great book.  It is very well written and very fun to read.  I read it about a year ago now for the first time and I loved it so much that I have reread it 3 times since.  It is very easy to fllow and to understand.  I wish Steve Schneider would write another book.  I hope he gives me an autographed copy of that one too.....
3795489
Excellent book, should come in handy for years.
3461447
I have seen this book for a few years but had never gotten around to buying it. A few months ago I broke down and got it and it became one of my top 3 books to have. When I stated to read the book I put myself in it, wondering what character fits me the most. After I finished it, I said to myself, Wow and put the book on the self. After about 2 weeks and currently reading about 4 other books I actually missed it, and started to read it again. My wife thought I was nuts. Then in about 2 weeks finished it again. I went to the web site and my interest was sparked again. They are trying to make a movie, man I want to be in it. One the most real time, happening know books to read.
1233275
I stumbled across this book while reading an article in Fast Company magazine. I think this speaks directly to why the book is such an excellent work. Even though I am reading it in 2006 with all the changes that have happened in the world since 1991 the books advice holds up as well today as it did when published.

The quality of research backing up Mihaly's viewpoints on happiness and the stories he uses to illustrate how you can use his research to improve the quality of your life are both in depth and practical.

Since reading the book I have found myself using many of the tactics recommended and feel the advice has been useful and easily incorporated into my every day life.

Highly Recommended
697945
Its a great book, I will probably read it again,before i give it to someone

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427121
I reread this book every year or so. Its an older book but still seems to be speaking about real and current things. Amazing!
2077882
I love this book. I have actually read it twice since purchasing it 2 years ago. Sorry of the late review.
2195612
I bought this book around 3 years ago for myself... And then immediately bought copies for all of my friends for Christmas. I think everyone got it from me for a Christmas present in 2009. I turned up on this page today (it is now 2013) because my copy has been battered and dogeared and read to bits. I LOVE this book... It's like visiting someone else's dreamscape for awhile.... And it is a pleasant place to visit. It is thought provoking and fun... And a place to visit and revisit. I'm here purchasing another copy.
2380184
Excellent book - I'd highly recommend.

I'm reading this for the third consecutive time now and am still pulling out great information I missed the first two times. This book is really helping me change my mindset regarding motivation and action levels required to succeed. As a culture we're taught from a young age that average is ok and money/success isn't everything. This book will show you how and why we need to change that.

The best quote of this book that I tell myself EVERYDAY is "there is no shortage of success".
1807423
I read this book when it first came out in the 1990s, and I read it again just now, more than 15 years later. Just like the first time, the book tore my heart open and partly patched it up. It struck fear into my heart about our future and offered glimmerings of hope. It was as much a page-turner now as it was back then and even more relevant. I was absorbed into Nell and Evas worlds just as before.

As for the criticisms of this book, here are my two cents. Minor spoilers ahead! One, the book is not anti-male. There are very few characters in this story at all, and each has flaws. Other than Nell and Eva, the other main characters are their father and Eli. I found their dad very loveable and human and multi-dimensional. Eli is less well-drawn and I think hes there mainly as a foil for the girls and to help with Nells coming-of-age storyline  and how many classic books have featured female characters who serve a similar role for their male protagonists (but are never accused of being anti-female)? As for the infamous scene between the girls, I too could have done without it  but as another reviewer said, its there more as an allegory regarding one damaged soul helping to heal another.

Also, I don't understand those who want specifics and details on why and how society came to shut down. I don't think we need that and, besides, isn't it pretty obvious that if we keep using energy the way we are and if our leaders remain as corrupt as they are and all of us ordinary people continue to not care much about the future, then we too will be going out with a whimper instead of a bang? And finally, sure the girls situation is pretty unique given that they live far from town, their dad ensured they were well-prepared, and theres a forest right there. Indeed this would have been an entirely different story had it focused on people living in a bustling city when the collapse happened.  Maybe someday Hegland will tell that story too.
2031936
I used to own 2 copies of this and have read the book at least 5 times, it is my go to and it is a fantastic book.
3043675
Great book, I'd highly recommend reading it.
881221
Great book, and I have read it three times. Always find inspiration! Thanks, Mark! When is your next one coming out?
1601013
I read it a couple years ago and liked it and then again a week ago and still think it's a great book. would definitely recommend it.
3212221
I love it.  Such an inspiration.  I have reread it 3 times and am on my fourth.  What an example.  Everyone should read this
493415
I bought this a couple years ago and I'm on here again looking to buy another copy, as my first one got lost between people borrowing it. I've stressed to everyone I know the power of this book. I hate reading, as a matter of fact, but I read this from front to back. Its an eye-opener for sure. I feel like it should have a better name though, as it applies to your entire life and not just your relationship.