The Consolations of Philosophy by Alain de Botton is is listed as "Self Help" first, and "Philosophy" second. That is reflected perfectly in the writing (1).
The French author gives short biographies of perhaps the 6 most misunderstood philosophers and their works. Even better, he traces the connections between the works forming two neat chains of intellectual development. The two groups of three, indicated on the striking watermelon like cover--see de Botton's previous work for more of his strange style (2)--are as follows:
Socrates, Epicurus, Seneca the Younger
Montaigne, Schopenhauer, Nietzsche
The cover's accolades states that this is a "fine introduction to the world of philosophy". If you know some philosophy but want to find out more about the lives of these thinkers, then this can be considered an introduction. While I would read almost any well-researched intellectual history, especially on such a good group of philosophers, it is the restraint and composition that the author exercises that makes this so refreshing. De Botton's writing is simple, addictive, and compelling.
The Chapter on Montaigne was one of the best of the bunch, and really puts academics and authors and "great thinkers" in perspective. I will definitely be looking into the essays of such a humble, wise man. It also introduced me to Schopenhauer, and completely changed my view of Epicurus and Nietzsche. I would have also been surprised by the morals of Socrates and Seneca if I didn't already idolize them.
Ultimately I think this is a book about morals and practical philosophy. Living in accordance with well-reasoned, personal virtues sits not just at the core of philosophy, but life as well. I think this sort of thing isn't talked, thought, or written about nearly enough, and for that it receives my highest recommendation, right alongside Meditations, The War of Art, and The Joy of Living (3.1-3). They may seem cheesy at first glance, but these books are incredibly deep and have changed my life.
If receiving short and poignant life lessons, entirely devoid of condescension or pretension (as much as a Frenchman can muster), from some of the most absurd, frankly ridiculous men who have ever lived sounds like a good time, then this is it.
References:
(1) The Consolations of Philosophy -- Alain de Botton
(2) How Proust Can Change Your Life -- Alain de Botton
(3.2) The War of Art -- Steven Pressfield
(3.3) The Joy of Living -- Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche
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