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midsummerbri's review
4.0
A really great understanding of Simone de Beauvoir's work. Cleary understands the material enough to both make it relevant to our world as well as note shortcomings and flaws in the ideology. Lots of interesting points on how to endeavor to live a fulfilling life, build fulfilling relationships, help people grow and overcome obstacles, and nurture children and friends into their authentic selves. The narrator (Gabra Zackman) does a great job and make the audiobook an easy listen.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advance copy.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advance copy.
paulataua's review
3.0
My admiration of de Beauvoir’s philosophical prowess and my life long struggle with the concept of authenticity were the two things that made this book an essential read for me. The fact that Cleary started by pointing out that authenticity is a problem concept and that facticity is a limiting factor in achieving authenticity looked promising. However, the fact that she applied little rigor to either concept meant that whatever points she made after that, however meaningful, however interesting, did not necessarily spring from those concepts. I enjoyed the initial chapter, felt supportive of much of the ‘self help’ proposals, but everything became a little too repetitive and mildly disappointing.
dorayang's review
4.0
This book was a little different from what I thought it'd be, but turned out to be a very interesting read. I am not familiar with Beauvoir and her work, but her philosophy was captivating. I loved how the book was divided, and each topic was discussed comprehensively and meaningfully. This has definitely got me interested in reading Beauvoir's books.
shankl's review
5.0
Thank you St. Martins Essentials for the complimentary copy of this novel. How to be Authentic is an accurate analysis of Beauvoir's ideas on feminism with many of the philosophies applicable for today. It is a well-written novel.
lostinvellichor's review
5.0
A wonderful, thoughtful introduction to Simone de Beauvoir and her philosophy, viewed through a modern, more intersectional lens. Equal parts validating and thought provoking, a must read!
pharmdad2007's review
4.0
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan audio for the audiobook ARC!
How to Be Authentic is an interesting look at Simone de Beauvoir and her lasting influence on feminism, feminist culture, and society in general. As someone with very little prior knowledge about de Beauvoir, I found this to be a fascinating introduction and a well-written survey of her impact and legacy. And I'm sure that even de Beauvoir enthusiasts will gain from this insightful book.
How to Be Authentic is an interesting look at Simone de Beauvoir and her lasting influence on feminism, feminist culture, and society in general. As someone with very little prior knowledge about de Beauvoir, I found this to be a fascinating introduction and a well-written survey of her impact and legacy. And I'm sure that even de Beauvoir enthusiasts will gain from this insightful book.
linkallyson's review
3.0
I think as an educator who is new to the field and facing loads of imposter syndrome, this is a helpful book. An introduction to Simone de Beauvoir's philosophy with stories of women's successes and failures in being authentic, this book is "self-help" without feeling like it.