The book is structured as a dialogue between a philosopher and a young man, discussing how to achieve happiness and personal freedom by understanding and overcoming the limitations we place on ourselves.
This novel challenges commonly held beliefs about happiness, trauma and self-worth, arguing that we have the power to change our lives by altering our perspectives and taking responsibility for our choices. It emphasizes the importance of living in the present, building healthy relationships, and finding the courage to be disliked by others as a means of true self-acceptance and fulfillment.