Do Books acquires ‘manual to knowing, liking and being yourself’

Do Books has acquired Do You: A user manual to knowing, liking and being yourself by author and social entrepreneur Sam Conniff and neuroscientist Katherine Templar Lewis.

World rights were acquired by Do Books founder and publisher Miranda West directly from the authors. Publication is scheduled for 5th September 2024.

In the book, the publisher says, the duo combines storytelling, insights from ancient wisdom and cutting-edge science with practical exercises to guide you toward an unshakeable sense of self.

Its synopsis goes on: “Do You will hold your hand through the maze of identity, emotions and subconscious beliefs. It looks at why we get stuck in the pain of the past; ways to tap into the power of the present; and how the fear of the future can undermine our ability to be clear-minded and confident about where we go. Welcome to the transformative power of embracing your true self.”

West said: “In terms of subjects, it doesn’t get much bigger than ‘the self’, especially at a time when so many of us are feeling emotionally overwhelmed or just plain stuck. Do You, our lead title for 2024, brings together a powerhouse partnership in Sam Conniff and Katherine Templar Lewis (quite possibly one of the coolest female scientists out there).

“Their strength as a writing duo lies in their unique blend of storytelling, cutting-edge science and expert advice delivered with a lightness of touch that makes this immense topic feel ‘do-able’. By the end of the book you may be meeting yourself for the first time.” 

The authors said: “Amid the current epidemic of anxiety, crisis of identity and acceleration of change, is an essential question of ‘who are we anyway’? This user manual modernises and democratises self inquiry into an everyday toolkit for feeling better about who you are, not getting lost in who you’re meant to be.

“By discovering a greater sense of knowing and liking ourselves, we decrease anxiety, and increase our sense of agency to make a mark on the world around us. We are both delighted to be working with Do Books – we love the list and the lecture series and embraced the challenge of creating a pocket-sized guide to a planet-sized problem.”