The Happiest Man on Earth

The Happiest Man on Earth by Eddie Jaku is a profoundly inspiring memoir that tells the story of how hope, kindness, and inner strength can lead to happiness even in the darkest times. Born in Germany, Eddie Jaku considered himself German first and Jewish second. His life, however, took a harrowing turn in November 1938 when he was beaten, arrested, and taken to a concentration camp during the Holocaust.

Over the next seven years, Eddie endured unimaginable horrors daily, first in Buchenwald, then in Auschwitz, and later on a Nazi death march. He witnessed the loss of family, friends, and his homeland, but his resilient spirit and vow to smile every day helped him survive the atrocities. In his memoir, Eddie Jaku pays tribute to the people who were lost by sharing his story and wisdom, ultimately revealing how happiness can be found even amid suffering.

Published as Eddie celebrated his 100th birthday, The Happiest Man on Earth is a powerful and heartbreaking narrative that emerges hopeful and life-affirming. This poignant account proves that the human spirit's resilience can foster happiness, even when faced with the most challenging circumstances.

This remarkable story has garnered significant acclaim:

WINNER OF THE ABIA BIOGRAPHY OF THE YEAR 2021

SHORTLISTED FOR THE ABA NIELSEN BOOK BOOKSELLERS' CHOICE - ADULT NON-FICTION BOOK OF THE YEAR 2021

SHORTLISTED FOR THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS FOR NON-FICTION 2021

LONGLISTED FOR MATT RICHELL AWARD FOR NEW WRITER OF THE YEAR 2021

Praise for The Happiest Man on Earth:

"This simple, moving account of a remarkable life offers plenty to think about and reflect on. Highly recommended." — Canberra Weekly

"I have never met Eddie Jaku, but having read his book I feel like I have made a new friend. This is a beautiful book by a truly amazing man." — Daily Telegraph

"A reminder of the power of love, kindness and hope. A life-affirming story, beautifully told." — Sydney Morning Herald

"Jaku's memoir can be our private celebration of evil that was ultimately vanquished." — Country Style

"His tale is compelling and particularly pertinent as we struggle to make sense of challenging times." — Weekend Post

"He acknowledges suffering but resists being defined by it, adhering instead to his philosophy of choosing a radical form of humanity, a resistance both potent and infectious." — Australian Book Review

"What an amazing, beautiful human." — Magda Szubanski

"A beautiful soul." — Lisa Wilkinson

"Eddie is a human diamond, and his story of survival, hope and the importance of kindness is what the world needs now." — Zoë Foster Blake

The Happiest Man on Earth is more than just a memoir; it is a testament to the enduring power of human spirit, an essential read for anyone seeking inspiration and hoping to understand the boundless possibilities of resilience and joy in the face of adversity.