This was a beautifully written book that everyone should have on their shelf. This book invites thought, compassion, reflection, and consideration, both for one’s own life and the lives of those around us. In this profound and personal book, Kieran Setiya shows how philosophy can help us find our way. Setiya skillfully gives readers the information and context they need as he goes so they do not have to have a background in philosophy to understand and enjoy this book. The way he ties it all together is poetry and his humor adds levity to some deceptively deep and heavy topics. He shares his own experience with chronic pain and the consolation that comes from making sense of it. Drawing on ancient and modern philosophy, as well as fiction, comedy, social science and personal essay, Life is Hard is a book for this moment — a work of solace and compassion. “This book makes no attempt to sugar coat life,” said a review on Goodreads.com. “Once we accept the fact that we and others will always have troubles life will become more bearable and enjoyable.”