For a book that is supposed to be about a gentler path, I was surprised at the introduction to the book, which focused on the evils of modern times and what we perpetrate against each other. This went on for a surprisingly long time, about 7% of the book. The rest is structured into three parts: the moments when he came to personal realizations about life, essays on those realizations, and then a guidebook for choosing a gentler path. I can understand how those realization moments that he had were compelling and insightful. The gentler life that is discussed would actually make the world a better place if followed by more people, and it would add personal depth and meaning as well. I particularly enjoyed the chapters on distraction and appreciation.

For any reader who feels like the walls are closing in on humanity, that hope is getting hard to find in our society and in our leaders, this book will take you through a winding and emotional path of healing. The author has given great thought in bringing this material to the page, and considering we're dealing with some heavy, heartbreaking stuff here -- as hope is not an easy thing to rev up once it gets to a low level -- we get some traction, slowly and reliably, here. The author has done a nice job of imbuing the message of 'you are not alone' with some realism and a fresh dose of optimism. A very worthy read right now.