This is a book about joy and love: Love of self, of life, and of still being here to tell your stories. 'To read Sophy Burnham is to marvel at her eloquence, her erudition, her wisdom and her daring.' – Julia Cameron, bestselling author of The Artist's WayThe Wonder and Happiness of Being Old is a timeless introspection on age, love, memories, regret and reconciliation, forgiveness and, underneath it all, the silent wisdom that derives from the perspective of years lived. What began as a singular letter in response to a younger family member standing on the precipice of her 60th birthday and asking the age-old question, 'What’s it like to be old?,' soon turned into one full year of unsent reflections, wonderment and curiosity of a life truly lived.Out of these reflections, New York Times-bestselling author Sophy Burnham developed this short, storytelling collection of unsent letters that offer readers of all ages hope and happiness, and new ways to perceive our later years. Whether you’re at the doorstep of 40, 60, 70, or 90, Sophy Burnham welcomes you in with an outstretched hand and a knowing nod of understanding and warmth.