Quality 4/5 ⸙ Readability 3/5 ⸙ Entertainment 4/5 ⸙ Concept 5/5 ⸙ Character 5/5 ⸙ Recommend 5/5
12 Rules for Life offers a mix of advice and philosophy for those who desire to make a positive change in their lives. Using his background in psychology and experience from his clinical practice, Dr. Peterson offers a psychological and philosophical glimpse into human behavior, how people are often the cause of their own misery, and what they can do to change it.
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12 Rules for Life delivers meticulous advice without the preachiness so often inflicted upon readers in self-help books. Contrary to the word “rules” in the title, Dr. Peterson does not tell the reader what to do or how to live, but rather notes the causes of unhappiness and what the reader can do to change their behavior, thus creating a happier, more fulfilling life for them.
While there are some great takeaways from Dr. Peterson’s book, it is quite drawn out. His writing is comparable to the way he speaks. He first establishes an understanding with the audience using analogies, and oftentimes biblical teachings, to achieve common ground before he applies the rule to a specific scenario. This roundabout way ensures a complete understanding of what was meant and what Dr. Peterson hoped to achieve with his point, but it oftentimes makes for a long and boring read. My advice is to read this book in chunks. Read a section at a time (not an entire rule at once) and then put it aside. This isn’t a one-sitting book. Dr. Peterson gives the reader plenty to mull over. Read it carefully, take notes, and reflect.
QRECCR Review Breakdown (see https://cmrushi.wordpress.com/2020/06/20/qreccr-book-rating-system/ for rating system.)
QUALITY 4/5
• Structure 5/5
• Fluff 4/5
• Errors 5/5
Readability 3/5
• Pacing 4/5
• Wording 3/5
• Clarity 3/5
Entertainment 4/5
• Entertaining 4/5
Concept 4/5
• Quality 5/5
• Novelty 5/5
• Interesting 5/5
Character 5/5
• Investment 5/5
• Sympathize 5/5
• Likability 5/5
Recommend 5/5
• Recommended
• Must-read for late teens/young adults
• Great reminders for adults
This is definitely a recommend. The content in this book is outstanding. Dr. Peterson offers great insight as to why people are unhappy and the simple steps they can take to improve their lives. The only reason I rate this book a 4/5 is that while the points are well-established, it does drag on for quite a bit and the awkward wording can make it difficult to read.
C.M. Rushi 