How to Live to 100: What Will REALLY Help You Lead a Longer, Healthier Life? by Ariane Sherine and David Conrad was published in 2020. It's a humorous and engaging exploration of the various advice, myths, and scientific findings related to longevity. Sherine, known for her witty and insightful writing, takes readers on a journey through the world of health, fitness, diet, happiness, and the myriad ways people have sought to extend their lifespans.
The book is structured around the concept that living a long life involves a combination of common sense, scientific guidance, and sometimes, sheer luck. The authors delve into topics such as the impact of diet (debunking the idea that there is one miracle food that will guarantee centenarian status), the importance of regular exercise, and the role of genetics in determining lifespan. She also explores more unusual longevity tips, providing readers with a balanced view of what might actually work versus what is purely myth.
One of the strengths of How to Live to 100 is Sherine's ability to blend humour with research, making complex scientific studies accessible and entertaining. She employs anecdotes, interviews with experts, and personal reflections to keep the narrative lively and engaging.
While the book does not promise a magic formula for reaching 100, it offers a sensible approach to living a healthy and fulfilling life. The authors emphasise the importance of happiness, mental health, and social connections, suggesting that a well-rounded approach to life is perhaps the real secret to longevity.
Critics and readers alike have praised the book for its humour, readability, and practical advice. It's seen not just as a guide to living longer, but living better – filled with laughter, love, and a healthy dose of scepticism.
Whether or not it will actually help you reach the century mark, this book certainly provides a compelling argument for making the most of the years you have, with plenty of laughs along the way.
Ariane Sherine inspired the Atheist Bus Campaign in 2008. The campaign's message, “There's probably no God. Now stop worrying and enjoy your life”, was designed to be thought-provoking yet non-confrontational, promoting secularism and the freedom to question religious beliefs. The initiative quickly gained momentum, supported by donations from thousands of individuals worldwide, and expanded beyond London to buses and public transport in other cities and countries, sparking a global conversation about faith, atheism, and freedom of expression.