When James Bailey was feeling lost in life, he was inspired by philosopher Will Durant’s 1930s project to write 100 luminaries from all walks of life, challenging them to respond to the fundamental question of life’s meaning. The response was more remarkable than he could have ever imagined. A decade on, James had garnered an incredible collection of replies, collated here for the first time. By turns, thought-provoking, amusing and enlightening, these letters from scientists, writers, athletes, campaigners, politicians, entertainers, survivors and philosophers are a wonderful source of inspiration. Some are about happiness and heartbreak, some are about purpose, some are funny and some will change the way you think. ‘The Meaning of Life’ is a gift from these leaders, connecting through one question that broadens our understanding of what it really means to be human and happy.