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A review by writersrelief
Reinvent Yourself by James Altucher
inspiring
fast-paced
4.5
James Altucher’s REINVENT YOURSELF is a refreshing blend of narrative nonfiction and self-help advice. What makes this book stand out from a typical self-help offering is the honesty and the shameless take on failure. You won’t find any toxic positivity or suggestions on how to reach perfection, but you can expect a quirky hot take on how to succeed with flaws. While failure isn’t exactly fun, Altucher welcomes the fact that you can find a takeaway from it and, well—reinvent yourself! As he dives into his personal journeys, reflections—and especially his mistakes—Altucher’s conversational voice and candid takes will make you feel like you’re talking to a friend.
The book is divided into bite-size chapters that share what he’s learned from people he’s met in his journeys, including Coolio, Judy Blume, Elon Musk, and even Eminem. Other chapters reveal what he’s learned from Star Wars, chess, and poker. Yes, it’s a very eclectic mix! But it shows that you really can learn from anyone and anywhere if you have the right mindset. By sharing his way of thinking, Altucher allows the reader to open new routes in the brain for new opportunities, thoughts, and ways to be creative.
Altucher’s narration places a huge emphasis on human connection and how you can learn something from everyone—whether it’s a skill, information, or something interpersonal. His writing encourages readers to develop a sense of self-awareness and consider ways we each can make the world a better place. Perhaps most importantly, he shows how you can become the best you by choosing yourself and doing what you love to do.