In a world filled with a seemingly endless stream of bad news, everyone needs a little pick-me-up from time-to-time, and The Friendship Cure is there to do just that. This self-described “manifesto for reconnecting in the modern world”, written by London-based journalist Kate Leaver, explores modern friendships through a combination of social science, personal stories and an added dash of humour.
The Friendship Cure takes readers through the various forms of friendships including girlfriends, “bromances”, platonic companionships between men and women, work husbands and wives and internet buddies, and covers topics ranging from how to escape those soul-destroying toxic friendships, to helping friends with depression. Woven throughout the book are facts from psychologists and scientists, along with heart-warming personal stories all collected by Kate Leaver; some from her friends, some from strangers online and others from her own experience.
The Friendship Cure is an engaging read and takes an honest and heartfelt look at the ups and downs of friendships in all of its forms. It’s well-written with a warm, amiable tone, and Kate Leaver’s passion and enthusiasm for friendship is contagious and shines throughout. Thanks to the many stories included, it’s a relatable book which isn’t too heavy, and you’re sure to draw on your own experiences of friendship – both good and bad – as you make their way through the chapters. At times it’s impossible not to feel motivated and empowered, particularly as Kate Leaver highlights the benefits of friendship and the positive effect a close support network has on mental health and self-esteem – in fact, we need our friends now more than ever. But she also acknowledges that friendships can be tough and that if you’re struggling, the chances are you’re not alone, and she also offers practical ways to help or to move on if a particular friendship hasn’t worked out for you.
The book is humorous in places, particularly when Kate Leaver explores male friendships and takes a look at her favourite bromances (Sirs Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart, naturally). In addition some of the moving and uplifting tales are sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a tear in your eye. At times she deals with more serious issues, and the chapter on loneliness in particular is sure to stir emotions. It’s not as uncommon as we might think, she suggests, and in fact is the next public health epidemic given its negative effects on health. But she offers reassurance of how people can get through the bad times and how we can all help one another and come out on top.
The Friendship Cure is a compelling, thought-provoking and timely tale of friendship. In fact the book itself is like an old friend, there to comfort you and cheer you up if you’re having a bad day, and to offer helpful advice on friendship woes. It’s a particularly effective morale boost and is sure to make the world a happier, kinder place.
By Kirsty Herrington
The Friendship Cure is available to buy through Amazon now.