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How Not to Die (Too Soon)

The Lies We’ve Been Sold and the Policies That Can Save Us

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How Not to Die (Too Soon)

By: Devi Sridhar
Narrated by: Devi Sridhar
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Brought to you by Penguin.

Have you ever questioned why, despite the avalanche of self-help books and optimization hacks, we remain embroiled in multiple global health crises? Populations worldwide are gaining life-shortening excess weight (even in poorer countries), and water contamination is rampant (even in richer countries). In such dire circumstances, a gratitude journal won’t help.

The stark reality is that we’ve been sold a monumental lie. The obsession with individual health optimization has distracted us from the real game-changer: holding governments accountable for policies that can significantly extend our lifespans. How Not to Die (Too Soon) is a vital, transformative guide that shifts the focus from individual responsibility to societal accountability. It’s time to demand the changes that will save lives.

'How Not To Die (Too Soon) is a fascinating, challenging and thought provoking read. It completely changes the perspective on human health and who bears responsibility for protecting it. In an age when talk of the next pandemic seems ever-present, it also couldn’t be more timely' Nicola Sturgeon

'In a world rapidly taking leave of its senses, Devi Sridhar is a crucial voice of reason, mustering empirical evidence and powerful argument to make an essential case. Drop everything and read this book' George Monbiot, author of Regenesis

‘This is the standout book on how to live longer’ Chris van Tulleken, author of Ultra-Processed People

© Devi Sridhar 2025 (P) Penguin Audio 2025

 Politics & Government Public Policy

Critic reviews

This is the standout book on how to live longer (Chris van Tulluken, author of Ultra-Processed People)
Drop everything and read this book (George Monbiot, author of Regenesis)
‘One of the most important voices of reason of the COVID era’ (Owen Jones)
How Not To Die (Too Soon) is a fascinating, challenging and thought provoking read. It completely changes the perspective on human health and who bears responsibility for protecting it. In an age when talk of the next pandemic seems ever-present, it also couldn’t be more timely (Nicola Sturgeon)
‘One of the most brilliant scientists in the world’ (Piers Morgan)
An inspiring call to action for those seeking to build a more just and healthy society for all (Grace Blakeley, author of Vulture Capitalism)
In her thoughtful, incisive new book, Devi Sridhar delves into the potent forces shaping human health that often lie beyond the control of individuals. Writing with verve and clarity, she draws from scientific research as well as her own sound expertise to craft a compelling case for the policy changes that may help to prevent disease and untimely death (Shilpa Ravella, author of A Silent Fire)
Dr. Sridhar writes a deeply accessible and actionable book about how to make ourselves, our communities and our futures healthier…I can’t recommend it highly enough (Chelsea Clinton)
All stars
Most relevant
I first became aware of Sridhar when seeing her Tweet on 26 January 2020 petitioning early action on Covid to prevent disaster. It's tragic that her warnings were largely ignored by the Johnson govt while being taken more seriously by Sturgeon.

If new to the title, scanning through the contents you might be deceived into thinking this was yet another self-help title to get lost amongst the millions of others. But it's intensely political, pointing to societal changes that can make a huge difference to everyone.

And her personal background (American, ethnically Indian, 20 years resident in the UK) contributes to her global understanding reflected in her being Chair of Global Health at Edinburgh University.

While majoring on the need for political changes there is in fact quite a lot of personal recommendations for the choices set before us.

A highly recommended and accessible riveting read that every politician should give time to in their busy lives.

Outstanding

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