An author that I have really enjoyed, as far as self-help goes, is Susan Spira. She has written three great books on finding happiness, "Happy Shorts", "The Happy Tips Book", and "One-Liners For Life," as well as some great children's books. My favorite book of hers, "The Happy Tips Book" Is quick and easy to read with not a lot of fluff. Just the bottom lines leading to greater joy and understanding.