Make Someone Happy: Favorite Postings

by Elizabeth Berg

This is a collection of Elizabeth Berg's most-loved Facebook posts. She was asked by many to put these short essays into book form, to create, as one reader said, something to "take to the beach, or bed, or on an airplane." Elizabeth and her friend, the book's designer Phyllis Florin, happily complied, and they hope that their offering will be as welcome as flowers in a mailbox.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Inspirational, Humor, Contemporary, Essays, Short Stories

168 pages, Paperback

Published June 29, 2016

About the author

Elizabeth Berg is an American novelist.
She was born in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and lived in Boston prior to her residence in Chicago. She studied English and Humanities at the University of Minnesota, but later ended up with a nursing degree. Her writing career started when she won an essay contest in Parents magazine. Since her debut novel in 1993, her novels have sold in large numbers and have received several awards and nominations, although some critics have tagged them as sentimental. She won the New England Book Awards in 1997.
The novels Durable Goods, Joy School, and True to Form form a trilogy about the 12-year-old Katie Nash, in part based on the author's own experience as a daughter in a military family. Her essay "The Pretend Knitter" appears in the anthology Knitting Yarns: Writers on Knitting, published by W. W. Norton & Company in November 2013.

Reviews

[Linda Lipko · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author began to randomly post thoughts on face book, and this book contains some of her writings. Filled with joy and the wonderment of small things such as a baby bird -- with "thread like feet" -- I love that description -- and, the sound of children on a playground, I smiled throughout.

Many pages contain conversations with her dog, and the love of animals shines through.

I own many of Berg's books, and as I work my way through organizing my 3,000 plus books, I will be sure to put her books aside to read. In the meantime, of course, I went to the library and brought home two that caught my attention.

If you long to read the joy of everyday pleasures, this book is for you.

[Judy Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another charming collection by Elizabeth Berg! Buy the audiobook, narrated by the author. Her voice is so calming. More to follow.

[Lois · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like Elizabeth Berg's novels, you'll like or maybe even love this book. Its a collection of some of her Facebook postings. I'd read some of them on Facebook, and didn't find out she'd done this book until the other day, and then I immediately requested it from my library. She always writes with such a down to earth honesty, like she's just talking to you. The posts are about all kinds of things. Her dogs, neighborhood kids, her frequent walks, hummingbirds, food, you name it. Each topic is just a short page or two long, some just a paragraph, but they all make you smile or laugh or wipe a quiet tear. As I wrote in a comment just as I started reading it, I am going to buy a copy of this book to send to a friend who I know will love it. Some of our messages to each other remind me of these writings. Just little stories from our lives, about the little things that are some of the best parts. I can't wait to hear what she thinks of it.

[Barb Anders · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love most all Elizabeth Berg books and have read many off her list. This one was a collection of some of her Facebook posts and it's just so endearing. She writes about the littlest things in life that mean so much...pets, nature, watching people, drinking coffee, seeing friends, loved ones, just random thoughts that inspire you to pay attention, think more and above all to be kind and gentle in this life we're all living. It's the best book to just put somewhere near and pick up periodically because you could read a couple pages and just have faith that things will turn out ok... It's a fast read but one of the books i will never give away because the thoughts in it are just too good to not have. Bonus that i have a signed copy from a friend who went to a book signing of hers at our local library. I'm sad that i missed it because she seems like such a genuine, wonderful human. Read this book!

[Carol Eshaghy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Words of wisdom from Elizabeth Berg. Fun.

[Lauren Barrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

An audio book, which is not a listed edition in Goodreads. Lovingly read by Elizabeth Berg, which makes it extra-special.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

A spirit lifter.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Make Someone Happy by Elizabeth Berg is a warm and inviting collection that blends memoir and blog-style reflections into a cozy, engaging read. Through a series of short pieces, Berg shares moments from her daily life with honesty, humor, and an unmistakable sense of warmth.

The stories centered on her dogs and family are particularly endearing, offering glimpses into the small, meaningful experiences that shape everyday life. Her writing captures these moments with a gentle charm, making the collection feel both personal and relatable.

Overall, Make Someone Happy is a comforting and enjoyable read—perfect for those who appreciate reflective, slice-of-life storytelling filled with heart and quiet joy.

[Betty · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a nice, light read. Make Someone Happy felt like sitting down with a cup of coffee and reading little thoughts about life, kindness, and everyday moments. Since it’s a collection of short pieces, it’s really easy to pick up and put down, which I liked. Some of the essays really stood out and made me pause and reflect, while others were just simple and comforting. It’s not a deep, heavy read, but that’s kind of the point. It’s warm, easy, and just makes you feel good. Perfect for when you want something gentle and uplifting without having to think too hard. Overall, I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it as a relaxing, feel-good read.

[Melissa Lee-Tammeus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ADORED this book. Facebook posts from one of my favorite authors all in one place - what's not to love? Berg helps remind me to look at the small things, that are really big things, and take the time to be gracious. Berg humbles me and I wish I had a whole stack of these. I like to read them in the bathtub and it is a lovely reminder that even when life sucks there are still beautiful things to focus on. It makes me want to give her a big hug for the reminder. I am reading the second of this "series" (?) now and feel the exact same way about that one, too.

[MaryTR · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. It was Berg at her best; funny, compassionate, intelligent. I would find myself laughing out loud when she had conversations with her saucy dog Gabby and then tearing up when she talked about her neighbor telling Berg of the loss of her dog. Berg made me open my eyes to to the magic of the world around me, so much of which I take for granted. To all who have ever read and enjoyed one (or several) of Berg's books, I implore you: read this book!

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought this book almost a year ago and have slowly read it. It's been on my nightstand. It was good for bedtime reading when I was between books or didn't want to read my current book right before bed. This little collection is of posts Berg originally shared on Facebook. They are random musings and observations with the overall focus on thoughtful or pleasant, everyday things. Nice little reminders of the sweet things in life.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read a few postings from this collection every day or two for several weeks, and I always smiled afterward. I appreciate that Elizabeth Berg is very good at observing the world around her and remembering to be grateful. When was the last time you noticed children at play, rain drops on a tree branch after a storm, the color of the sky as night begins to fall?

I recommend this book to anyone who needs to be reminded that little things should not go unnoticed. I will reread this book as needed and plan to read the other two in this series.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this after seeing Elizabeth Berg give a reading at my local library. She's one of my favorite authors. This book made me laugh, cry, and feel fuzzy-warm while looking at the world with childlike wonder. I probably won't be putting it on my bookshelf any time soon; this one will stay on the nightstand for rainy days or when I want a dose of happy.

[Leona · Rating 5 out of 5]

These small bits of every day life are so real and warm and comforting. I felt like I was chatting with a friend. The novels Ms. Berg writes are phenomenal but these posts from Facebook are a sweet collection of little pick-me-ups and some thought provoking passages as well. I am forever indebted for how much her written word has enriched my soul.

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me very happy! A collection of short essays that were originally blogs/postings by Elizabeth Berg. She is the master of writing about every day ordinary life observations. I used to read her columns in Parents Magazine and loved them! These stories remind me of those columns. This is a book that you can pick up anytime you need a laugh, a pick-me-up or an everyday distraction.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this little book. It is a collection of Berg's Facebook posts, musings about daily life. It makes me want to enjoy life more fully. I think I will read it every year on my birthday to just get the year going in a good direction.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a collection of Facebook posts by the author. She is very observant and sensitive to her surroundings. She takes pleasure in the small details of life that we are often going too fast and too busy to notice Very enjoyable and quick read

[Cheryl Crotty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love anything by Elizabeth Berg. This was especially nice in these trying times. Her Facebook essay's just clocked full of real life but always with a positive and bright spin. Heartfelt notes to her readers. This is how she really is, not just words.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve had this book for some time and really prefer novels but waiting for a library book I picked it up to read. The short thoughts are well written and expressed with great descriptions. It was a pleasant read.

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh what a sad morning it was when I realized I was at the end of this delightful book ! I have loved reading Elizabeth Berg's works and "Make Someone Happy: Favorite Postings" was just what I needed to keep some semblance of sanity during these trying g times

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Enjoyable

I found this book to be enjoyable because of its’ genuineness. The author spoke what I consider to be “truth” that all of us want and need to hear in support of the authenticity that I believe each of us are seeking. Thank you Elizabeth Berg!

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smiled all the way through

I love Elizabeth Berg and have read all of her books. I love that this one helps me understand my favorite writer.

[Georgette Beck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this author!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed these sweet short vignettes. Goody read before bed

[Maddielucy(Patti) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some of the posts were kind of silly but others gave you something to think about.

[Diane · Rating 3 out of 5]

enjoyed very much.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this on my phone. It was great for when I just had a few minutes to kill. Made me see the world in a much better light.

[Robyn Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audible

[Kathy H · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely collection of stories. One of my favorite authors ever.