We are very excited to announce, that the Italian rights for THE HAPPINESS PUZZLE by Dr. Jennifer De Paola have been acquired by Newton Compton Editori in an auction! The deal was closed by Noora Al-Ani at Ahlback Agency.
This is what Gabriele Anniballi from Newton Compton had to say about De Paola:
“For a long time, Scandinavian countries have been the benchmark we look to for learning how to be happier. This book, written by an Italian expert who relocated to Finland, offers a fresh perspective on the topic for Italian readers. We are delighted to add it to the Newton Compton catalog.“
Newton Compton celebrates over 50 years of publishing success with an unswerving commitment to making knowledge accessible to everyone. In 2019, Newton Compton was acquired by the GeMS group and continues with renowned vigor on a mission to encourage Italians to read more. It is also highly regarded for its unalloyed passion for history, for works on regional traditions, for how-to manuals and a variety of other non-fiction areas, to all of which its rich catalogue bears witness. It publishes a selection of prestigious authors exploring the most diverse topics.
Building on Finland’s paradoxical position in the World Happiness Report, this book reveals the limitations of defining happiness purely as life satisfaction (contentment). Adopting a fresh perspective, it suggests a fuller, more nuanced understanding of happiness — one that begins with how ordinary people define and experience it. By exploring how ordinary people in Finland describe their own happiness, the book paints a picture that goes beyond the simple contentment, highlighting the skills needed to navigate three essential dimensions of happiness: emotions, contentment and meaning.
DOWNLOAD MATERIALS FOR THE HAPPINESS PUZZLE HERE
8th year in the row – Finland is the happiest country in the world! Think of happiness as a kaleidoscope. When you shake it, the small colorful pieces get all mixed up, and the three mirrors inside it create beautiful patterns through multiple reflections. Now think of Emotions, Contentment and Meaning as those three mirrors.
✓ English book proposal with new chapter samples available! Original edition will be in English.
✓ An innovative and unique take on the happiness paradox by researcher Jennifer De Paola, PhD!
Finns are known for their quiet, reserved nature and their tendency to keep emotions in check, don’t exactly fit the traditional image of a “happy” nation. They don’t smile on command or express emotions as openly as people in other countries might. And yet, Finland continues to top the happiness rankings year after year.
Through a blend of cutting-edge happiness studies, personal anecdotes, and actionable advice drawn from reliable, science-backed therapeutic practices, The Happiness Puzzle is both a framework and a practical guide. This book introduces a simple yet profound framework for understanding happiness based on three aspects:
- Emotions: signal what brings joy into our lives and alert us to what may harm our well-being
- Contentment: provides a sense of calm and satisfaction with what we have, helping us appreciate the present moment
- Meaning: gives our lives purpose and direction
Happiness isn’t a goal or destination — it’s a skill.
Rights sold:
ITALY: Newton Compton Editori s.r.l.
Reading materials:
English book proposal, Sample chapters.
Loukko by 

