Good answers to life’s hard questions exist, but they’re scattered across shelves of specialized books, and they’re never there when you need them. Practical Life Advice: From A to Z gathers them in one place, in plain language.

Arranged like an encyclopedia, this book covers nearly 150 everyday problems, from Affairs and Aging Parents to Wills and Work-Life Balance. Every entry starts with a familiar situation, gives you a straight answer in one bold line, explains why, and shows you exactly what to do next. Open it to the topic you need, or open it anywhere and read.

Inside you’ll find:

• In-depth guidance on the big subjects: love, marriage, money, family, work, health and grief

• Clear steps for getting out of debt, asking for a raise, handling in-laws and caring for aging parents

• How scams really work, and how to protect yourself and the people you love

• What to say when a relationship is in trouble, and how to know when it’s time to go

• Fifty Quick Answers, one-line rules worth remembering for life

• Large, easy-to-read type and a full index

It’s written like advice from a wise, honest friend: it tells you the truth kindly, and says so when you need a doctor, a lawyer or a therapist instead.