Why Good Things Happen to Bad People? by Vu M. Do

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This is not your typical self-help book. Instead, Vu M. Do approaches one of life’s most frustrating and timeless questions with equal parts philosophy, psychology, and real-world reflection. Why do selfish, dishonest, or cruel people so often seem to get ahead, while kind and generous people struggle? Do’s answer isn’t simple—but it’s thought-provoking and deeply human.

The book unpacks human behavior through the lenses of evolutionary psychology, cultural expectations, and moral philosophy. Do makes a compelling case that what we perceive as “good” or “bad” is often shaped by context. Success, he argues, doesn’t always align with virtue, and sometimes destructive traits—ambition without empathy, manipulation disguised as charm—are rewarded by the systems we live in.

What I appreciated most was the balanced tone. Do doesn’t give in to cynicism, nor does he pretend that the world is fair. Instead, he offers tools for reframing our understanding of justice and success. The anecdotes and case studies feel both accessible and unsettling, leaving you questioning your own assumptions.

While at times the prose can lean academic, the insights are sharp and memorable. Readers who enjoy exploring the “why” behind human nature—fans of Malcolm Gladwell or Jonathan Haidt—will find a lot to reflect on here. This isn’t a book that gives you easy answers, but one that challenges you to see the world differently.