The Beggar King and the Secret of Happiness Book Summary

In 'The Beggar King and the Secret of Happiness,' Joel ben Izzy weaves a captivating tale of a beggar who embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Through a series of enchanting stories and encounters, he reveals profound truths about the nature of happiness and fulfillment. As he navigates the challenges of his life, readers are drawn into a magical world where wisdom and laughter collide. This heartfelt narrative not only entertains but also invites us to reconsider what it truly means to be rich in spirit. Prepare to be inspired and enlightened as you follow the beggar's quest for joy.

By Joel ben Izzy

Published: 2005

"Happiness is not found in what we possess, but in the stories we share and the hearts we touch."

Book Review of The Beggar King and the Secret of Happiness

"Wonderful!” (Grace Paley). “Heartwarming and smart and wonderfully written” (Detroit Free Press). “Provides edifying advice, intimately given, like the best-selling Tuesdays with Morrie” (the Dallas Morning News). “Altogether original” (Dr. Laura Schlessinger). “This story will speak to the humanity of the reader” (Jewish Book World). The Beggar King and the Secret of Happiness is that rare, magical book—a book that tells a good story but also shows us how the tales we learned when we were children shed light on our adult lives. Joel ben Izzy had the unusual opportunity to relive those lessons when he lost his voice and reconnected with his old teacher, Lenny, a retired storyteller. Through his meetings with Lenny, Joel rediscovers the wisdom of ancient tales and takes us on a journey into a world of beggars and kings, monks and tigers, lost horses and buried treasures—and in the end tells us the secret of happiness.

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Happiness is not found in what we possess, but in the stories we share and the hearts we touch.

The Beggar King and the Secret of Happiness

By Joel ben Izzy