The Secrets of Successful Friendships

#TheSecretsofSuccessfulFriendships #NetGalley

It is widely accepted that friendships are relationships of great importance. What contributes to good ones? What can lead one astray? Learn more in this School of Life title that offers a wide ranging perspective.

The book consists of four chapters plus the introduction and conclusion. These are Varieties of Friendship; Enemies of Friendship; Friends of Friendship; and Substitutes for Friendship. I especially liked the section on Friends of Friendship. Here are a number of suggestions on how to be a good friend; readers may find that they already practice what is suggested or they may get some new ideas. Just spending time thinking about this seems worthwhile.

At under 200 pages, this is not a long read. It is, however, a worthwhile one.

Many thanks to NetGalley and The School of Life for this title. All thoughts are my own.

Pub date: 09 September 2025

Description:

from the publisher

The second book in The School of Life’s ‘Secrets’ series, offering lessons on the emotional skills necessary to build and maintain friendships Few things promise as much potential happiness as friendship, yet the challenge of finding and maintaining meaningful connections remains one of life’s great struggles. 

Through The School of Life’s unique approach to psychology, philosophy and cultural history, The Secrets of Successful Friendships offers a thoughtful exploration of why friendship is both more complex and more rewarding than we typically imagine, and offers strategic for creating strong bonds with others. It examines why we get lonely, what holds us back from deeper connections, and how we might develop the emotional intelligence needed for lasting bonds. 

With characteristic wisdom and warmth, the book explores different varieties of friendship, from casual acquaintances to profound lifelong connections, while offering practical insights into overcoming common obstacles like shyness, envy and fear of vulnerability. 

By explaining friendship’s true purpose, the book gives us a chance to build new relationships of genuine depth and meaning.