Very Good Lives: The Fringe Benefits of Failure and the Importance of Imagination

J.K. Rowling, one of the world's most inspiring writers, shares her wisdom and advice.

In 2008, J.K. Rowling delivered a deeply affecting commencement speech at Harvard University. Now published for the first time in book form, VERY GOOD LIVES presents J.K. Rowling's words of wisdom for anyone at a turning point in life. How can we embrace failure? And how can we use our imagination to better both ourselves and others?

Drawing from stories of her own post-graduate years, the world famous author addresses some of life's most important questions with acuity and emotional force.

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Published Apr 14, 2015

80 pages

Average rating: 8.78

9 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Oree
Jun 25, 2025
6/10 stars
She talks about how failure is more important than success and the world can be better if we use our imagination. I didn't know she grew up poor. Pretty basic advice.

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