something_creative 's review for:

The Existentialist's Survival Guide: How to Live Authentically in an Inauthentic Age by Gordon Marino

2.5

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Throughout the course of listening to this book, there were moments where I was heavily rolling my eyes and going OK boomer. Not only does the author do a poor job of understanding, modern day therapy, something I happen to be well-versed in as a therapist, but he often takes a paternalistic or condescending approach to some of the students he has had throughout his years as a professor.  However, he also seems to be a very personable man, with a lot of learned experience, and in his forward, acknowledges that his experiences are different as a white male than if he was born without those privileges.

That being said, there are some very humble, relatable, and interesting things about this book. I do not believe it should be titled existentialism, however as he really only focuses on Kirkegaard. Which if that’s your thing by all means have had it. 

The author also draws heavily on his faith, and what early existentialist believed about faith. As somebody who is a bigger fan of later existentialism, I am not compelled to feel that his faith arguments were particularly fetching. But as somebody who respects those with Faith, it might be a perfect book for someone who wants to grasp existentialism, holding onto their faith.  

Overall, I’m glad I did not put it down, but also don’t know why I picked it up. Would’ve been better as a memoir.