I had mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, I appreciated the author's deep dive into wellness history and how modern wellness became the beast it is today. But on the other, it made the pacing of the book really drag on and I wanted to get to the practical side of the book faster than it did.

The concept of this book is one I’ve been fascinated with for a while — how self care has become synonymous with an aesthetic and consumerism — so I was really excited to see that topic explored so concisely, researched, and organized. I had never thought of this as the new figure of the “ideal woman” but I definitely agree it is and found that angle to be really interesting. The book looked at both the medical and the social and I do think the author struck a good balance there.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this arc! really interesting and well-researched book! This author dismantles the facade the wellness industry has built to convince all of us, but especially women, that the key to health and wellbeing is to spend ever more money on their products. Eye opening and a good reminder to always do your research before falling for a sales gimmick.

Amy Larocca’s How To Be Well offers a fascinating and deeply researched critique of the modern wellness industry, peeling back the layers of its often dubious practices and unscientific claims. Through witty commentary and well-documented observations, Larocca delves into how wellness trends have shaped our collective thinking about health, especially for women. From biohacking to ashwagandha, she exposes the ways these trends capitalize on our insecurities and desires for self-improvement.

However, despite its engaging analysis, the book feels misnamed and misses the mark in delivering on its core promise: <i>how to be well</i>. Rather than providing actionable steps toward wellness, Larocca’s focus rests heavily on dismantling the trends she critiques. While her clear-eyed skepticism is refreshing, readers hoping for guidance on cultivating genuine health and well-being may walk away disappointed.

Ultimately, How To Be Well succeeds as a sharp cultural critique but falters in offering practical advice or solutions. It’s worth a read for those curious about the intersection of consumerism and wellness, but those seeking clarity or support in their personal health journey might want to look elsewhere.

Thank you to NetGalley, Amy Larocca, and Knopf for the eARC of this book.