Book Review: “The Comfort Book” by Matt Haig

“The Comfort Book” by Matt Haig is a delightful and easy read for anyone looking for…well…comfort. 

Haig uses his own mental health experiences of depression (trigger warning: he does mention suicidality) to offer insight and wisdom. The book is a mix of short essays, lists, and poetry. A perfect book for busy people who only have 5 minute spurts to read at a given time (aka parents). Some sections of the book are one sentence long. At most essays are 5 pages. Such an easily digestible book! 

I started reading this book in between wrangling my 3 year old and before I finished the book I bought eight copies to give as Christmas gifts. I gifted the books to my mom friends who I know struggle to find time to sit and read, and who are also going through their own life difficulties. I also bought copies for my coworkers and my sister (who is also a mental health professional) as the little bits of wisdom are also good to share with our clients. I’ve already recommended the book to two of my own clients. 

Is it obvious I love this book? 

There are so many good quotes in this book and I could easily copy a hundred of them, but then you might miss the magic of reading the quotes yourself within the context of Haig’s work.  

I’ve read it once and I plan on keeping it handy to re-read often. I can imagine just flipping to a random page and finding a golden nugget of advice or hope on hard days. 

Do yourself a favor and go ahead and buy yourself a copy of the book, and maybe a few extra copies to give to friends and family.