Mathew

The author is a neo-conservative who attempts to justify the merits of war in general, religion in schools and goverment, and many right-wing values in the name of gentlemanly behavior. The basis of his arguments are not philosophical, but rather boringly historical. If you're a neo-con, you'll love this. If you are not, you'll find it ridiculous. The only thing both groups might get out of it are some interesting recommendations for other reading material about the topic. The author also likes to use big, infrequently used words needlessly that I found annoying and pompous.

The author writes/speaks as if he were addressing a child. It gets pretty annoying after a while. I also get the feeling that he's not being completely honest about what he was like and whether he really changed by the end. He sounds more like a bad and condescending salesman.

This is a heartfelt, thoughtful, and really funny monologue about the author's search for truth. Highly recommended. I just wish it were longer.

I'm really surprised by the previous reviewers' comments. Granted, the author does like to mention his accomplishments but most authors of How-To books do so in order to give credibility to their advice. His main message is that most people in our culture value a sense of individuality that eventually leads to isolation, loneliness, and a lack of personal fulfillment. This book is an attempt to inspire you to connect to and develop your community by following your passion, helping others, and making connections among the people you know. In turn, your community will want to see you develop and be successful. I just wish I would have 'read' this book sooner.

What's the difference between a humorist and a comedian? A comedian makes you laugh. This book is by a humorist who uses absurdity for entertainment. Sometimes this strategy works, especially if there is a subtext (as in Catch 22), but the subtext here isn't very insightful or clever. I agree with a previous reviewer that this could have been written by a teenager. I am amazed that this book has become so famous.