Really liked the ideas presented by the 6 different philosophers. The author analogised Epicurus and Socrates’ ideas very well and (I’d say) fairly accurate represented the historicity behind these ideas to the extent in which it’s needed.
Despite my initial understanding of their philosophies, I learnt a lot about how things like happiness are derived through friendship, freedom and thought. Through reevaluations, it was great to see how these are applicable to my own life especially when dealing with grief, loss, non achievement etc.  

Although this book aims to provide a more "self help" perspective of philosophy, I’d say it’s a really good read for those who are just getting into philosophy and aim to do so academically. I’m quite a fan of how Alan, as a contemporary philosopher, presents the ideas of preceding philosophers in a more palatable way without taking away from its original meaning. However, I do also think that the simplification of ideas, can cause some details to be lost, but nonetheless I think Alan did a pretty good job in his presentation. 
I’ll probably read this again right before I start studying philosophy academically as well since it’s analogies help with understanding concepts.

my philosophy teacher made me hate this mf