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Happy Iceland: How Icelandic Strangers Taught a Miserable American the Secret to Lifelong Happiness
Not yet published
Expected 27 Jun 26A simple question at Iceland's international airport—What are your happiest memories of Iceland?—sets off an unforgettable journey across the Land of Fire and Ice. Abandoning guidebooks and itineraries, a young woman on the precipice of turning thirty, newly unemployed and stuck in a faltering relationship, spends five weeks backpacking and hitchhiking to find the locations where Icelandic strangers' happiest memories took place. From childhood sports fields and family farms to hidden waterfalls and the remote Highlands, this intimate travel memoir explores Iceland far beyond what can be seen from a sightseeing bus tour. Part adventure, part meditation on what it takes to be happy in a volatile world, Happy Iceland is a reminder that some of the best journeys begin when we shut up and listen.
"[A] rare triumph—both for the writer's brain in Anne Marie Wells and for the health of her heart. It's a triple threat when an author can educate, entertain and embolden you all at once. And I suppose a quadruple threat, when they move you to change how you live. Wells accomplishes this and more in this unique, beautiful memoir, one you will not be able to put down. It should be called Happy Everywhere....as it helped me find joy no matter where I went after I read it."
—Laura Carney
Author of My Father's List: How Living My Dad's Dreams Set Me Free
"[A] rare triumph—both for the writer's brain in Anne Marie Wells and for the health of her heart. It's a triple threat when an author can educate, entertain and embolden you all at once. And I suppose a quadruple threat, when they move you to change how you live. Wells accomplishes this and more in this unique, beautiful memoir, one you will not be able to put down. It should be called Happy Everywhere....as it helped me find joy no matter where I went after I read it."
—Laura Carney
Author of My Father's List: How Living My Dad's Dreams Set Me Free
284 pages, Paperback
Expected publication June 27, 2026
About the author
Anne Marie Wells
9 books41 followersAnne Marie Wells is an award-winning poet, playwright, memoirist, and oral storyteller. She is the founder and host of The Joy of Poeting, a weekly Zoom show and emerging brand. Her debut poetry collection, Survived By: A Memoir in Verse + Other Poems, was published by Curious Corvid Publishing in April 2023. Her chapbook Mother, (v) won the 2023 Cinnamon Press Pamphlet Contest and was released in 2024. Her bilingual children’s book Mommy, Why Am I a Bird / Mamã, porque sou uma ave was published by Imprensa da Universidade de Coimbra in 2015 and later featured on Wyoming PBS in 2020. In 2025, she published the coloring and activity book Underwater Explorers & Rescuers in collaboration with the global nonprofit Ethical Seafood Research as well as self-publishing a writing prompt collection titled Write Some Cool Sh!t: 366 Prompts to Rekindle Your Creativity. Her travel memoir, Happy Iceland: How Icelandic Strangers Taught a Miserable American the Secret to Lifelong Happiness, will be released by Star Belt Press in June 2026. She is a freelance copy editor, proofreader, and writing coach.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
April 21, 2026
3.5 Stars.
The page for this book on Goodreads contains a subtitle that says, “How Icelandic Strangers Taught a Miserable American the Secret to Lifelong Happiness.” This does not appear in the ARC of the book that I excitedly dove into, and I’m hoping that it has been dropped from the book entirely prior to publication. That subtitle distracts from what the book is actually about. It’s an entertaining combo of travelogue & memoir, leaning heavily into the memoir half. If you sign up for a book detailing the many happy places in Iceland and the detailed life lessons that were learned on the journey you’ll be disappointed. If you’re open minded and are entertained by an interesting exploration of life and adventure, this will do the trick.
There were moments in this book that moved me deeply. Hearing about such meaningful connections happening between people so quickly does something to the soul, especially given the hopeless state of things right now. I can’t imagine tackling an adventure like this – partially because the terrifying non-plan plan approach sends an icy chill down my spine – so it’s fascinating to read about how having an open mind and spirit can allow for some pretty wonderful connections to be made.
The big issue preventing this from being a knockout is the thinness of the main concept. Wells sets out on the journey to “interview” Icelanders and ask them some version of the question, “What’s a happy memory you had here in Iceland?” There are only a handful of answers to that question throughout the story, and there’s not much evidence of any actual interviews taking place. It’s a series of meaningful connections between a lot of walking, an astounding amount of hitchhiking, and quite a lot of backstory. While that central question does loosely hold the story together, and is an interesting idea, it’s a less impactful element than it probably should have been.
Overall, it’s a fun, warm-hearted read. It does make you want to travel to Iceland, open yourself up to the whims of the Universe, and to find some skyr for an afternoon snack.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The page for this book on Goodreads contains a subtitle that says, “How Icelandic Strangers Taught a Miserable American the Secret to Lifelong Happiness.” This does not appear in the ARC of the book that I excitedly dove into, and I’m hoping that it has been dropped from the book entirely prior to publication. That subtitle distracts from what the book is actually about. It’s an entertaining combo of travelogue & memoir, leaning heavily into the memoir half. If you sign up for a book detailing the many happy places in Iceland and the detailed life lessons that were learned on the journey you’ll be disappointed. If you’re open minded and are entertained by an interesting exploration of life and adventure, this will do the trick.
There were moments in this book that moved me deeply. Hearing about such meaningful connections happening between people so quickly does something to the soul, especially given the hopeless state of things right now. I can’t imagine tackling an adventure like this – partially because the terrifying non-plan plan approach sends an icy chill down my spine – so it’s fascinating to read about how having an open mind and spirit can allow for some pretty wonderful connections to be made.
The big issue preventing this from being a knockout is the thinness of the main concept. Wells sets out on the journey to “interview” Icelanders and ask them some version of the question, “What’s a happy memory you had here in Iceland?” There are only a handful of answers to that question throughout the story, and there’s not much evidence of any actual interviews taking place. It’s a series of meaningful connections between a lot of walking, an astounding amount of hitchhiking, and quite a lot of backstory. While that central question does loosely hold the story together, and is an interesting idea, it’s a less impactful element than it probably should have been.
Overall, it’s a fun, warm-hearted read. It does make you want to travel to Iceland, open yourself up to the whims of the Universe, and to find some skyr for an afternoon snack.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
April 4, 2026Happy Iceland by Anne Marie Wells is a heartfelt and engaging blend of travel memoir and personal exploration. The book follows Wells on a journey through Iceland, where she not only experiences the country’s landscapes and culture but also confronts deeper questions about meaning, purpose, and happiness.
Through honest, often vulnerable storytelling, she shares her inner struggles alongside moments of connection with strangers, whose generosity leaves a lasting impression. Her voice is authentic and transparent, enriched with humor—both self-deprecating and lighthearted—that keeps the narrative lively and relatable.
The inclusion of simple map sketches helps ground the reader in her journey, adding a sense of direction and immersion even for those unfamiliar with Iceland. More than just a travel story, the book evokes a sense of nostalgia for self-discovery and captures the emotional pull of adventure and human connection.
Overall, Happy Iceland is a compelling, uplifting read that resonates with anyone drawn to travel, introspection, and the pursuit of a meaningful, happy life.
Through honest, often vulnerable storytelling, she shares her inner struggles alongside moments of connection with strangers, whose generosity leaves a lasting impression. Her voice is authentic and transparent, enriched with humor—both self-deprecating and lighthearted—that keeps the narrative lively and relatable.
The inclusion of simple map sketches helps ground the reader in her journey, adding a sense of direction and immersion even for those unfamiliar with Iceland. More than just a travel story, the book evokes a sense of nostalgia for self-discovery and captures the emotional pull of adventure and human connection.
Overall, Happy Iceland is a compelling, uplifting read that resonates with anyone drawn to travel, introspection, and the pursuit of a meaningful, happy life.
March 16, 2026
I recently hosted Anne Marie Wells on my podcast, and I was lucky to get an early look at her memoir.
This isn't your typical travel book. Anne Marie travels with a diy plan, hitchhiking across the country by following the happy memories of the strangers she meets. The book is refreshingly real, showing everything from her blistered feet and broken rain jacket to the deep, honest conversations she has with the people who pick her up. You’ll meet amazing people like Rósi, who treats all his guests like stars, and Bjork, who welcomes a "drenched rat" of a traveler into her home for a meal of meatballs and a warm bed. Beyond the adventure, it’s a meditation on human connection and a reminder that some of the best journeys start when we just shut up and listen. She eventually learns what happiness is and isn’t. If you want a travel story that is vulnerable, funny, and incredibly honest, you really need to read this book.
I’m so glad I got to hear her story first-hand and see it come to life in these pages!
This isn't your typical travel book. Anne Marie travels with a diy plan, hitchhiking across the country by following the happy memories of the strangers she meets. The book is refreshingly real, showing everything from her blistered feet and broken rain jacket to the deep, honest conversations she has with the people who pick her up. You’ll meet amazing people like Rósi, who treats all his guests like stars, and Bjork, who welcomes a "drenched rat" of a traveler into her home for a meal of meatballs and a warm bed. Beyond the adventure, it’s a meditation on human connection and a reminder that some of the best journeys start when we just shut up and listen. She eventually learns what happiness is and isn’t. If you want a travel story that is vulnerable, funny, and incredibly honest, you really need to read this book.
I’m so glad I got to hear her story first-hand and see it come to life in these pages!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What to do when you are about to turn 30 and have no clue?
Anne Marie Wells decided to travel to and through Iceland on the adventure of a lifetime.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about not only her adventure, but also her inner struggles and thoughts as she went.
This book is more than just a travel adventure. Anne Marie set out to find meaning in her life as well as discover places and times that made those she encountered....happy.
Through this, she discovered the secret to being happy and also meaning and direction for her life.
She holds nothing back about herself and laces the book with humor, both self deprecating and in general. This made for a very amusing read and funny read.
I loved how simple map sketches were used throughout the book so I as the reader had an idea where she was going. I'm not sure why this worked for me as I have never traveled around Iceland, but it helped me have context to where she was off to next.
While I am past 30 by many years and don't wish to go back, I am now intrigued by the idea of traveling to Iceland from reading this book.
In all, a great read. The story kept moving, the author was authentic and transparent and the humor added to the fun of the whole adventure.
Anne Marie Wells decided to travel to and through Iceland on the adventure of a lifetime.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about not only her adventure, but also her inner struggles and thoughts as she went.
This book is more than just a travel adventure. Anne Marie set out to find meaning in her life as well as discover places and times that made those she encountered....happy.
Through this, she discovered the secret to being happy and also meaning and direction for her life.
She holds nothing back about herself and laces the book with humor, both self deprecating and in general. This made for a very amusing read and funny read.
I loved how simple map sketches were used throughout the book so I as the reader had an idea where she was going. I'm not sure why this worked for me as I have never traveled around Iceland, but it helped me have context to where she was off to next.
While I am past 30 by many years and don't wish to go back, I am now intrigued by the idea of traveling to Iceland from reading this book.
In all, a great read. The story kept moving, the author was authentic and transparent and the humor added to the fun of the whole adventure.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Part travelogue, part cultural history of Iceland, part coming-of-age story, part self-help book, Happy Iceland sparked sheer delight each time I plunged into its pages. I felt like I was sitting down with the author herself as she told me one-on-one her travels through Iceland.
What begins with a simple premise — asking strangers where they were most happy in Iceland and then traveling to that location — becomes a deeper exploration of happiness and its role in our lives.
Throughout, Wells paints a panoramic picture of her time in Iceland, the struggles internal (what to do with your life) and external (hitchhiking and camping), the joys of connecting with people over food and natural beauty, and the hard work of exploring and confronting yourself on the road.
This book left me happier, pondering my own life's journey, and wanting desperately to find a pot of stracciatella skyr.
What begins with a simple premise — asking strangers where they were most happy in Iceland and then traveling to that location — becomes a deeper exploration of happiness and its role in our lives.
Throughout, Wells paints a panoramic picture of her time in Iceland, the struggles internal (what to do with your life) and external (hitchhiking and camping), the joys of connecting with people over food and natural beauty, and the hard work of exploring and confronting yourself on the road.
This book left me happier, pondering my own life's journey, and wanting desperately to find a pot of stracciatella skyr.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the first travel memoir I have ever read, and it was the perfect introduction to the genre. I really enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to anyone who loves travel or the craft of writing.
I most enjoyed Wells' prose style. Well's prose gives the reader the impression of taking a long, rolling journey through Iceland's roads with its steady, engrossing rhythm and bright descriptions. The narrator's reactions, reflections and moments of growth mirror the process we all feel when we travel to new places without a plan. Finishing the book feels like leaving a new, beloved destination we promise ourselves we will go back to someday.
It's also interesting to see the effect Wells' experience writing poetry has on the text, especially the use of vibrant colors, sounds, and smells she encounters on her journey.
I most enjoyed Wells' prose style. Well's prose gives the reader the impression of taking a long, rolling journey through Iceland's roads with its steady, engrossing rhythm and bright descriptions. The narrator's reactions, reflections and moments of growth mirror the process we all feel when we travel to new places without a plan. Finishing the book feels like leaving a new, beloved destination we promise ourselves we will go back to someday.
It's also interesting to see the effect Wells' experience writing poetry has on the text, especially the use of vibrant colors, sounds, and smells she encounters on her journey.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A beautifully written personal journey filled with perseverance, spontaneous friendships, and lovely Icelandic scenery (albeit some volatile weather). Happy Iceland is a reminder that some of the most memorable experiences often start with a simple ice breaker, some courage, and a little serendipity. By asking local Icelanders to recount their happiest memories, Anne Marie connects with a colorful cast of characters who act as guides and, at times, emotional supporters on her journey around the country. This book will make you ponder about the meaning of happiness and remind you to be kind to traveling strangers. This is a great read for anyone seeking inspiration to step out of their travel comfort zone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is not your average memoir! As she hitchhikes around Iceland chasing the secret to happiness, Wells exposes herself not only physically to the harsh elements and rugged landscape, but also emotionally to the cast of characters she meets along the way. Her poetic writing style transported me to a part of the world I’ve never seen (and the maps helped, too). At times witty and whimsical, at others frank and introspective, this is such a vulnerable, heartwarming adventure of a read. BRB, going in search of stracciatella skyr…
Review of advance copy received from Author
A young woman on a solo journey to Iceland, asks Icelanders where they experienced happiness. Then, she headed there by way of hiking and hitchhiking. What she lacked in finances, she made up in grit. I found myself feeling physically uncomfortable when the tarp wasn't enough to protect her or when her jacket invited cold to reach her body.
As Anne learns about herself and the goodness of people, the reader gets a look at Iceland and her mystical topography. This book is about resilience and determination and spoke to the adventuring part of me. A great read.
As Anne learns about herself and the goodness of people, the reader gets a look at Iceland and her mystical topography. This book is about resilience and determination and spoke to the adventuring part of me. A great read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Happy Iceland is for those with an adventurous heart. You're rooting for her from the beginning as she asks the big questions and takes chances with strangers over and over. Somehow, she truly is one of the luckiest travelers in the world. She has a knack for connecting with people and somehow miraculously finding them again throughout her journey. The book made me laugh, cry, and reflect on how these small moments of human connection can truly make your life whole. Absolutely a must-read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a delight! I felt as if I was sitting in some cozy place, having "coffee time" with Anne Marie and hearing of her Icelandic adventure. Well worth the journey through this memoir.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you’re searching for inspiration look no further than to this book. In this surprising journey of joy, that emotional goal is less an aspiration and more a hunger the author learns to satisfy one interaction at a time. Her lofty ambitions for an adventure are met with equally devastating lows at times, but the whole way, I was cheering as she rallies for another go at her personal emotional mountain. Find some of your own joy in hers as you travel alongside her toward a happier existence.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have read this book 472 times over the last 10 years, and it is a book I am genuinely very proud of. Even on my last read, I was laughing out loud, I was tearing up. I hope future readers find it to be a fun, armchair-travel story and that it inspires others' "Happy Journeys".
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews