Great introduction to philosophers. Should probably re-read, since I remember it being pretty boring.

My graphic design teacher gave me this when I was fifteen and twelve years later I finally read it. I wish I had read it then! ‘Twas a wild ride & I learnt a lot. Thanks Mrs Humphries. Sorry I never gave it back.

This book has fictional characters learn about the history of philosophy. A book within a book and the daunting topic - I struggled to read it until I gave myself permission to not be a philosophy expert at the end.

I think the writer did a wonderful job of explaining complex topics in a relatable way. It’s a lot if you haven’t been exposed to at least some of the philosophers before hand. It’s a lot of information to unpack overall.

"Every living being who can read should read this book. It should be part of education. It is a shame that we live so deeply being ignorant about the most important questions of life and the universe."

Sophie's World, written by Jostein Gaarder, is a literary masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of time and space, offering readers a journey through the intricate corridors of philosophy. This book serves as a beacon of enlightenment, shedding light on the profound questions that have intrigued humanity for centuries.

In a world where the pursuit of knowledge often takes a backseat to the practicalities of daily life, Sophie's World is a refreshing departure from the norm. Gaarder's work brilliantly condenses the convoluted history of philosophy into digestible prose, making it accessible to anyone with a thirst for understanding.

The author's genius lies in his ability to take complex philosophical concepts and present them in simple, relatable words. As someone who has struggled with philosophy courses in the past, I found this book to be a revelation. It introduces the ideas of the great philosophers who came before us without overwhelming the reader with jargon or abstract theories.
Sophie's World explores the history of ideas, emphasizing that human existence is not confined to a single possibility but encompasses unlimited potential. It prompts us to question the customs and traditions that shape our lives, reminding us that these traditions originated from someone's idea. Isn't it astonishing how we often accept these ideas without ever questioning their origins or validity?
One of the book's most significant critiques is aimed at our education system, which often focuses on teaching us "how" rather than "why." Gaarder highlights the deficiency in our quest for knowledge by pointing out that many of us are well-versed in the mechanics of life but lack the fundamental understanding of the purpose behind our actions. This thought-provoking perspective calls for a more holistic approach to education, one that encourages critical thinking and exploration of life's deepest questions.

Jostein Gaarder has done a great service to society by releasing this book. It would be a missed opportunity for anyone to live and die without exploring the profound wisdom contained within its pages. Sophie's World is a call to awaken the philosopher within each of us and embark on a journey of self-discovery and intellectual enlightenment.

In conclusion, Sophie's World is a timeless masterpiece that deserves a place on every bookshelf. It not only introduces the reader to the rich history of philosophy but also challenges us to question the very fabric of our existence. Gaarder's work is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of life, the universe, and everything in between. I wholeheartedly recommend it to readers of all backgrounds and ages.

A masterpiece of teaching philosophy and of storytelling. I would recommend this to anyone, kids or beginner philosophers, as an inspiring introduction. I think it could've been even more interactive and narrative in the first half of the book but still great.

Mind. Blown.

We’re all made of stars