The Best Things in Life Aren't Things: Celebrating What Matters Most

by Joann Davis

In the spirit of the inspirational best-seller Random Acts of Kindness comes a portable reminder of what really matters in life

In a culture driven by materialism and consumerism —by the idea that “if you haven’t found happiness, then you just haven’t been to the right store”—it’s easy to forget that life is about more than acquiring the latest SUV or gold watch advertised on television. Life is a spiritual exercise that brings greatest fulfillment when we savor the extraordinary intangibles that are often right in front of us. Having a shoulder to cry on, the courage of our convictions, forgiveness granted for our transgressions, a loving friend’s affection and compassion —these are some of the best things life on earth has to offer.

Through inspirational essays on family, faith, friends, virtue, service, community, and the beauty of the natural world, we explore and celebrate the real stuff of life. Followed by a list of the “best things” in each category, the book expands on the popular bumper sticker that expresses what people everywhere know to be true but need to be reminded The Best Things in Life Aren’t Things.

110 pages, Hardcover

First published May 15, 2003

About the author

Joann Davis is a former book editor. She is married to Kenneth C. Davis, author of Don't Know Much About History and America's Hidden History, among other titles for adults and children.


Joann and Kenneth C. Davis have two grown children, Jenny and Colin, and divide their time between Dorset, Vermont, and New York City.


Right now, I am taking a breather on my own work and helping my husband, Ken Davis, prepare for the upcoming publication of Don't Know Much About Anything Else. Check out Ken's page at HarperCollins.com for all of his upcoming events.