Consolations
On sale
23rd April 2026
Price: £22
UPLIFTING, PRACTICAL AND SURPRISING WISDOM FROM THE MILLION-COPY BESTSELLING CLASSICIST
‘Wonderful. Thoughtfully chosen, carefully explained and beautifully expressed’ NATALIE HAYNES
‘A literary phenomenon’ TLS
‘She leaves her readers inspired, invigorated and sincerely grateful’ TELEGRAPH
Why do some loves endure while others fade? Is happiness something we can learn? Why do some things feel like work and others like leisure?
Every new page of Consolations offers a thought-provoking idea about life – from friendship and family arguments to ageing and narcissism. Renowned classicist Irene Vallejo shows us how each of these ideas has its roots in ancient times, drawing on the wisdom of Aristotle and Seneca, as well as lesser known philosophy and history.
Each entry brings a surprising insight, and helps us to think differently about our daily life. These are fascinating little gems to read every day, and to savour slowly.
‘Wonderful. Thoughtfully chosen, carefully explained and beautifully expressed’ NATALIE HAYNES
‘A literary phenomenon’ TLS
‘She leaves her readers inspired, invigorated and sincerely grateful’ TELEGRAPH
Why do some loves endure while others fade? Is happiness something we can learn? Why do some things feel like work and others like leisure?
Every new page of Consolations offers a thought-provoking idea about life – from friendship and family arguments to ageing and narcissism. Renowned classicist Irene Vallejo shows us how each of these ideas has its roots in ancient times, drawing on the wisdom of Aristotle and Seneca, as well as lesser known philosophy and history.
Each entry brings a surprising insight, and helps us to think differently about our daily life. These are fascinating little gems to read every day, and to savour slowly.
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Reviews
'[Vallejo] leaves her readers inspired, invigorated and sincerely grateful'
'She is imaginative, lively and contemporary. In her hands written texts are not only a sensual pleasure, but living and frequently disruptive'
'A literary phenomenon'
'Wonderful. Thoughtfully chosen, carefully explained and beautifully expressed'