This second book from the author of the bestselling The Metrosexual Guide to Style is a quick, fundamentally fun read. Be prepared for lists and lists of interesting factoids about hedonism through the ages. Redefining hedonism and pointing out how Americans both define and decline it is one of the great aspects of this slimmer volume. With chapters entitled “Follow Your Bliss” and “Indulge Thyself,” it’s easy to see in which direction this author leans – towards the full realization of hedonism in our lives.

The handbook’s tone is light and you’ll find yourself laughing aloud at some of the historical examples of hedonists, margin quotes, and even displayed graphics. A favorite section of mine features the “joy of getting lost,” of which it espouses this wisdom:

To the rigidly organized mind, the idea of getting lost is a distinctly unpleasant one and may be fraught with stress. To the happy hedonist, getting lost is an opportunity for adventure and discovery. This is particularly true when shopping, searching for love or when on vacation. To wander freely is to live in a natural state …

I’m going to adopt the Sensible Weekly Time Allocation for myself. Let me share the handbook’s wisdom once again:

WORK
40 hours (It’s the law!)
SLEEP
56 hours (Eight hours per night.)
CHORES
6 hours (Necessary evil, delegate when possible.)
LEISURE
66 hours (Use them well.)