Consolations: Timeless Wisdom from the Ancient World for Every Day

by Irene Vallejo, Charlotte Whittle (Translator)

UPLIFTING, PRACTICAL AND SURPRISING WISDOM FROM THE MILLION-COPY BESTSELLING CLASSICIST

'Wonderful. Thoughtfully chosen, carefully explained and beautifully expressed' NATALIE HAYNES
'A literary phenomenon' TLS
'She leaves her readers inspired, invigorated and sincerely grateful' TELEGRAPH

Why do some loves endure while others fade? Is happiness something we can learn? Why do some things feel like work and others like leisure?

Every new page of Consolations offers a thought-provoking idea about life - from friendship and family arguments to ageing and narcissism. Renowned classicist Irene Vallejo shows us how each of these ideas has its roots in ancient times, drawing on the wisdom of Aristotle and Seneca, as well as lesser known philosophy and history.

Each entry brings a surprising insight, and helps us to think differently about our daily life. These are fascinating little gems to read every day, and to savour slowly.

Genres: Philosophy

Kindle Edition

Published April 23, 2026

About the author

Irene Vallejo Moreu (Zaragoza, 1979) estudió Filología Clásica y obtuvo el doctorado europeo por las universidades de Zaragoza y Florencia. En la actualidad lleva a cabo una intensa labor de divulgación del mundo clásico impartiendo conferencias y a través de su columna semanal en el diario Heraldo de Aragón. De su obra literaria destacan las novelas La luz sepultada (2011) y El silbido del arquero (2015), la antología periodística Alguien habló de nosotros (2017) y los libros infantiles El inventor de viajes (2014) y La leyenda de las mareas mansas (2015).

Reviews

[Anton]

Enchanting and exquisite. Absolutely charming book. Audio narration is superb too