Retirement Success Compared: Staying Active, Tested, and Surprisingly Happy When we first picked up Keys to a Successful Retirement: Staying Happy, Active, and Productive in Your Retired Years, we expected a straightforward guide. Instead, we found a refreshingly candid exploration of what truly makes retirement fulfilling. The authors don’t shy away from the challenges—many of which we艤ver experienced—yet they balance wisdom with actionable advice. What stood out was the emphasis on adapting to change, whether it’s revisiting old hobbies or trying something entirely new. We appreciated how the book framed productivity not as a forced obligation but as a source of purpose when done creatively. True, some strategies felt aspirational, but the relatable anecdotes kept us engaged. It’s not a how-to manual, but rather a companion to help us craft our version of a happy, active, and productive retirement.