Book Club Guide: The Year of Living Danishly
The Year of Living Danishly
Author: Helen Russell
Genre: Nonfiction, Biography/Memoir
Location(s) Featured: Jutland, Denmark
If you’ve ever wondered what makes Denmark the world’s happiest country, The Year of Living Danishly by Helen Russell is a fascinating, funny, and thought-provoking look behind the curtain. When Russell and her husband move from busy London life to a small town in Jutland for his new job at LEGO, she decides to spend a year uncovering the secrets of Danish happiness—and questioning her own ideas about work, contentment, and community.
It’s a perfect pick for book clubs because there’s so much to discuss—culture, lifestyle, work-life balance, and what really makes people happy.
(You can also check out my full book review of The Year of Living Danishly for more of my thoughts before diving into your discussion.)
Explore the Hygge Life Yourself While in Denmark!
Book Club Discussion Questions
- Does this book make you want to move to Denmark? Why or why not?
- What was the most surprising “happiness factor” for you—and what were you surprised wasn’t mentioned?
- What would be the hardest part about living in Denmark for you personally?
- Early in the book (page xvi), Helen reflects: “It occurred to me that wishing away half your life in anticipation of retirement… was verging on the medieval… Life should have been good. Enjoyable. Easy, even.”
What does this realization say about how many of us live and work today? - What did you think of the Danish approach to health care? Why or why not would that work in the United States?
- On page 251, Russell writes: “The individual has freedom within safe boundaries… but they agree to work towards a collective goal: maintaining and championing The Danish Way.”
What are your thoughts on this balance between individuality and community? - How do you define happiness? Does your definition align with the Danish way?
- Denmark emphasizes both personal freedom and collective trust—do you think those values can coexist?
- On page 342, Helen concludes: “It’s no wonder Danes are so happy… Everyone is paid a decent wage, everyone is looked after, and everyone pays their taxes… I’m starting to think it’s a deal worth making.”
What do you think of her conclusion? Would you make that same “deal”? - Helen ends the book with ten tips for “living Danishly.” Which ones would you want to try?
Make Your Book Club Meeting Memorable
Turn your discussion into a cozy, hygge-inspired evening with a few Danish touches:
- Food & Drink: Bring Danish butter cookies or bake traditional Danish pastries (think cinnamon rolls or kringle).
- Atmosphere: Host at someone’s home with candles, blankets, and soft lighting—or meet at a cozy café to embrace true hygge vibes.
- Activity: Bring LEGO bricks and have everyone build something that represents “happiness.”
- Extra Research: Check the current World Happiness Report—is Denmark still near the top? How does your country compare?
- Follow-Up: Look up what Helen Russell (and her family) are doing now. Has her view of Danish happiness changed?
Final Thoughts
The Year of Living Danishly is more than just an expat memoir—it’s a reflection on what it means to live a happy life. Through humor and honesty, Helen Russell invites readers to rethink success, slow down, and find joy in the simple things. Whether you’re curious about Scandinavian life or just craving a meaningful discussion, this book offers plenty of both.
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