The Greatest Possible Good by Ben Brooks

The Greatest Possible Good by Ben Brooks

The Greatest Possible Good is another of Ben Brooks’ thought‑provoking reads that blends family drama with a dose of moral philosophy, inviting readers to consider what it means to do good in the world.

Arthur Candlewick makes a dramatic decision after surviving a fall into a disused mineshaft, with only his son’s drug stash, some wine, and a book on effective altruism. From this experience, his singular focus becomes applying those principles—selling the family business, donating all his wealth to charity, and choosing to live a frugal life.

His wife, Yara, thinks Arthur’s decision is irrational. Ultimately, they become estranged and divorce as she struggles with the idea, driven by fear, that they will become destitute. However, there are other factors at play. Overall, no real altruistic lessons are learnt from Arthur’s choices; even on his death bed, we are made aware of friends who have no compassion for his ideas.
Arthur’s children face their own preoccupations and challenges.

Evangeline wrestles with idealism, privilege, and the pressures of young adulthood. She questions her commitment to altruism when she starts university. A poor relationship choice and an unexpected pregnancy force her to re‑evaluate her direction.

Emil, a gifted maths prodigy, struggles to find purpose and spirals into drug use, losing sight of any aspirations.

Overall, it is a feel‑good read where we are asked to reflect on the struggles of each family member and decide what constitutes the greatest good, the benefits of altruism, the importance of family, or the focus on one’s own needs.

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