The Comfort Book is written in bite-sized pieces, which are easy to digest when you feel depressed and/or anxious. Haig pulls together elements from pop culture, ancient philosophy, and historical figures, as well as his own advice, to offer comfort to whoever might need it.

Some parts are truly inspired while other parts start to feel repetitive. That's probably partly because I read it straight through pretty quickly. I think this book is best experienced in small chunks over a longer time span when it feels like it would be helpful to have a little comfort or inspiration. Although that's just my perspective,  I'm sure if I was in a worse spot at the moment then reading it straight through could have been just what I needed.

Haig's Reasons to Stay Alive helped save my life when at my lowest. I listened The Comfort Book when in a much more hopeful place, years on. This book would be lovely as a physical copy to pick up and flick to from time to time. It would be a good gift for someone who is struggling with their mental health. For me, it wasn't as good as Reasons to Stay Alive but this may be because of where I was when I read both books and how much I needed the former compared to the latter. Having come so far in my recovery and having supported people with their mental health since, so much of the nuggets of wisdom and hope learned from being in, and coming out of, the depths of despair resonated with me and are important lessons. Acceptance of where and who you are is essential to move through despair and I felt this was captured well. I liked his "Nothing stronger than a small hope which doesn't give up". Would recommend and would read again. 

Not especially profound or substantial, but sweet for what it is

Motivated me to get more regular with my meditation practice 

Truly a comfort book 

No book has ever inspired me to write my own version. But that’s what this book did. Once I started reading it, I started to write down my comforts in tandem to hearing Haig talk about his. With intense vulnerability and candor, Haig made me feel equal parts seen and comforted. I think anyone struggling with anything should read this book. It’s quick and easy. Although it took me awhile to finish, I think one can easily read this in one session. I kept returning to it in times of crisis throughout a difficult start to 2024. I’m glad I had it as a companion. It will absolutely be a book I reread throughout the years. Also, listening to it through Haig’s voice made me weep. It was amazing he was able to recount all of that and still inspire people who may be going through similar feelings.