The Rabbit Effect

The Rabbit Effect: Live Longer, Happier, and Healthier with the Groundbreaking Science of Kindness
By Kelli Harding
Simon & Schuster Audio, 2019. 288 pages. Nonfiction 

In 1978, a seemingly straightforward experiment designed to establish the relationship between high blood cholesterol and heart health in rabbits discovered that kindness—in the form of a particularly nurturing post-doc who pet and spoke to the lab rabbits as she fed them—made the difference between a heart attack and a healthy heart. As Dr. Kelli Harding reveals in this eye-opening book, the rabbits were just the beginning of a much larger story. Groundbreaking new research shows that love, friendship, community, and our environment can have a greater impact on our health than anything that happens in the doctor's office. 

This was a fascinating read, focusing on how the treatment of those around us can have a significant impact on health. Is surrounding yourself with a loving support system going to cure all your ills? No, of course not, but this book suggests it can provide health benefits that can’t be replicated by modern medicine. I found this book inspiring, heartwarming, and every time I think about it I want to be a better person and surround myself with good people. That definitely improves my life. 

If you liked The Rabbit Effect, you might also like: 

Radical Kindness: The Life-Changing Power of Giving and Receiving
By Angela C. Santomero
Harper Audio, 2019. 240 pages. Nonfiction 

Angela C. Santomero, the creator, executive producer, and head writer of many of today's most popular educational children's shows believes in the radical power of kindness, on her shows, and in her life. From the true meaning of self-care and the gift of vulnerability to the importance of active listening or the magic of asking for help, this audiobook goes beyond The Golden Rule and entreaties to 'be nice,' contending that kindness is the key to recognizing love and understanding. 

Friendshipping: The Art of Finding Friends, Being Friends, and Keeping Friends
By Jenn Bane and Trin Garritano
Workman Publishing, 2020. 211 pages. Nonfiction 

Jenn Bane and Trin Garritano, hosts of the feel-good podcast Friendshipping, know how hard it can be to make and keep great friends. They’ve distilled the heart of their show into this book to help provide tips and tools readers need to make new pals and improve the quality of existing friendships. Insightful, empathetic, and just a touch irreverent, the advice stresses practicality, self-forgiveness, and inclusivity to help you make friendships that are fulfilling, accepting, and lasting. 

ACS