The books

Words to keep close by

Practical psychology you can hold in your hands — over a million copies sold, translated into more than 40 languages.

Open When… by Dr Julie Smith — hardback book
Released 2 January 2025 #1 Sunday Times Bestseller New York Times Bestseller

Open When…

A series of "Open When" letters for life's hardest moments. When you feel overwhelmed, confused or full of self-doubt, open the letter written for that moment — then use the practical tools that follow it.

  • Letters for stress, performance pressure and anxiety-inducing emotions
  • Navigating difficult relationships and partnership conflict
  • Fitting in socially, and making life's big decisions
  • Published by Penguin Michael Joseph (UK) and Harper One (USA)
Order Your Copy →

Available at all major bookshops. Signed copies at Waterstones (UK) · exclusive edition at Target (USA).

Published January 2022 Audible UK Book of the Year 2022

Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?

The book that started it all — everyday psychology tools drawn straight from the therapy room, for anxiety, motivation, self-doubt, low mood and more.

  • Over 1 million copies sold worldwide
  • Biggest selling non-fiction book & audiobook of 2022
  • 100+ weeks in the Sunday Times top ten — #49 of the last 50 years
  • Translated into 40+ languages · British Book Awards shortlist
Buy the Book →
A copy of Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? held up in front of a bookshelf
Kind words

Loved by readers, press & peers

"
Full of sound, helpful advice with life skills, from building confidence to managing stress.
The Sunday Times
"
If you want to feel like you have a therapist sitting across from you, empowering you with how to be your best self, this book is for you!
Nicole LePera — NYT bestselling author
"
I'm blown away by her ability to communicate difficult ideas with ease, simplicity and practicality.
Jay Shetty
From my bookshelf

Books I recommend

Titles by other authors that I often point people towards.

How to Do the Work book cover

How to Do the Work

Dr Nicole LePera

The Myth of Normal book cover

The Myth of Normal

Gabor Maté

The Happiness Trap book cover

The Happiness Trap

Russ Harris

Why Love Matters book cover

Why Love Matters

Sue Gerhardt

Grief Works book cover

Grief Works

Julia Samuel

See Dr Julie live

Hear the books come to life on stage

Dr Julie is appearing at festivals across the UK this year, talking all about "Open When…".

View Upcoming Events →