Gerard M. Doyle

I got this book as an early reviewer, and it has taken me a while to get through it. It is a self-help book, but does not follow the conventions of the genre; it is also, to some extent, an academic book in the breadth and depth of the sources, ranging from philosophy to psychology to sociology (and others). The author is obviously well-read, and the writing also falls between a dry academic style and the breezy, light approach many self-help books take.

More detail: self-help books, even those that have solid research behind them, are usually full of anecdotes (people relate well to these stories, whether or not they are true). The reading level is not too high, and they tend to focus on a narrow concern.

Most academic writing is dryer, and in any disciplines, follows a standard format (e.g. in psychological research there is an introduction, method, results, and discussion; review articles are a little more flexible).

Being You brings in a wide range of sources in an organized and focused way. Unfortunately, it is also somewhat boring - I say unfortunately because the book is full of good information. I read quickly, but needed more focus than usual for this book.

Overall, it is a very good book. Sources are referenced, so the reader con go back to the original study or discussion of much of the info that is presented here. Take your time, do not rush, and you will find lots of helpful information here.… (mehr)