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Radical Love: Learning to Accept Yourself and Others
I'm not an expert, therapist, pastor, teacher, or monk. I am merely a person going through my own mental and emotional health journey, hoping that I can pass on some of the wisdom and tools that I'd been blessed enough to learn along the way. And I truly believe that if we can help heal the hearts and minds of everyone on earth, we will solve every other problem known to man in the process. -- Zachary Levi
Radical Love is the debut memoir from Zachary Levi (Shazam!, American Underdog, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Chuck), which shares his emotional journey through a lifetime of crippling anxiety and depression to find joy, gratitude, and ultimate purpose. Facing the scars of childhood trauma and the voices in his head that told him he would never be enough, Zac recounts the raw yet honest behind-the-scenes story of his family life, career successes, and the personal disappointments that led him to rock bottom and landed him in a therapy center, where he learned to address the underlying issues that preceded his downward spiral.
Radical Love combines witty, touching, and powerful commentary with relatable illustrations to help you on your own path toward mental wellness. With vulnerability and humor, Zac relates the valuable lessons and insights he’s learned so that you can rise from the ashes of trauma and pursue a meaningful life of gratitude.
Radical Love is the debut memoir from Zachary Levi (Shazam!, American Underdog, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Chuck), which shares his emotional journey through a lifetime of crippling anxiety and depression to find joy, gratitude, and ultimate purpose. Facing the scars of childhood trauma and the voices in his head that told him he would never be enough, Zac recounts the raw yet honest behind-the-scenes story of his family life, career successes, and the personal disappointments that led him to rock bottom and landed him in a therapy center, where he learned to address the underlying issues that preceded his downward spiral.
Radical Love combines witty, touching, and powerful commentary with relatable illustrations to help you on your own path toward mental wellness. With vulnerability and humor, Zac relates the valuable lessons and insights he’s learned so that you can rise from the ashes of trauma and pursue a meaningful life of gratitude.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published June 28, 2022
302 people are currently reading
3674 people want to read
About the author
Zachary Levi
8 books132 followersZachary Levi is one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood with critically acclaimed roles in TV, Film, and on Broadway. Zachary’s career catapulted as the lead and fan favorite, Chuck Bartowski, in the hit NBC series, Chuck. Zachary demonstrated his range as a Tony Award Nominee for Best Actor in a Musical in She Loves Me. His impressive vocals landed him a leading role in the Disney Academy Award nominated (Best Original Song) animated musical, Tangled. He also took home a SAG Award for “Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series” from his recurring role on Amazon Studios’ Emmy winning series, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Zachary starred in the 2019 blockbuster hit, Shazam! for Warner Bros./ New Line Cinema that held the #1 spot at the box office for two weeks in a row and will be reprising his role in Shazam! Fury of the Gods releasing June 2023. Levi most recently portrayed iconic NFL MVP and Hall of Fame quarterback, Kurt Warner in American Underdog for Lionsgate directed by Andrew and Jon Erwin. Channeling his role as the. Zac will return with the Erwin brothers for another Lionsgate film The Unbreakable Boy, based on the true story of the most inspiring boy who touched and changed the lives of those around him. Zachary is a champion of the importance of mental health through his Ambassadorship with Active Minds, a non-profit focused on providing mental health services on college campuses across the country.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 752 reviews
November 22, 2024
Zachary Levi’s journey to better mental health is candid, heartbreaking, yet hopeful.
Like many of us, Levi has suffered through bouts of anxiety and depression enhanced and triggered by trauma. He narrates personal experiences that left him emotionally helpless, depressed and losing his faith and trust in God. He recounts his worst times and how he combats his demons by understanding his search for approval and love from others needed to become approval and love of himself.
At the end of the day, Levi is an authentic soul who shares his mental health journey in hopes to encourage and be a light for others. Truly inspiring with glimmers of wisdom such as, “If you are acting as a conduit of light and love… then you are doing your job.”- Sara S.
Like many of us, Levi has suffered through bouts of anxiety and depression enhanced and triggered by trauma. He narrates personal experiences that left him emotionally helpless, depressed and losing his faith and trust in God. He recounts his worst times and how he combats his demons by understanding his search for approval and love from others needed to become approval and love of himself.
At the end of the day, Levi is an authentic soul who shares his mental health journey in hopes to encourage and be a light for others. Truly inspiring with glimmers of wisdom such as, “If you are acting as a conduit of light and love… then you are doing your job.”- Sara S.
August 18, 2022
Radical Love is a memoir about mental illness and perseverance. Zachary Levi is best known for his role in the movie Shazam!, but I know him for his role as Chuck in the TV series Chuck. Zachary Levi is a fun-loving guy, all smiles, and if he hadn’t published this book, I would have had no idea that he had so much pain and obstacles to overcome in his life.
While this book is marketed as a self-help book, it’s better viewed as a story of one man’s struggle, and from that we can empathize with him and extrapolate how we can forge our own paths forward in our own journeys.
One thing I particularly liked is that he’s not pretending his story is “over”. He’d written the chunk of this book before the pandemic, and once the pandemic hit, he, like many others, had setbacks in his mental health. He had imposter syndrome, thinking that he shouldn’t be writing this book at all, not until he’s “better”. But I think that showing that this is a journey, not a final destination, really makes his story relatable and engaging.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and the author at the ALA Annual conference 2022*
While this book is marketed as a self-help book, it’s better viewed as a story of one man’s struggle, and from that we can empathize with him and extrapolate how we can forge our own paths forward in our own journeys.
One thing I particularly liked is that he’s not pretending his story is “over”. He’d written the chunk of this book before the pandemic, and once the pandemic hit, he, like many others, had setbacks in his mental health. He had imposter syndrome, thinking that he shouldn’t be writing this book at all, not until he’s “better”. But I think that showing that this is a journey, not a final destination, really makes his story relatable and engaging.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and the author at the ALA Annual conference 2022*
May 10, 2022
Radical Love is written by actor Zachary Levi. Levi shares his own personal struggles with mental health and how he came to find joy, gratitude, and purpose through his difficult journey.
I was deeply inspired by Radical Love. Levi shared his emotional journey and struggles with mental health in such an authentic way. There was a part in this book where Levi details his inner conflict for seeking help, in fears that it would get out into the media and paint him in a negative light. After reading this book, you can see how far Levi's come in dismantling the stigma behind mental health. As the reader, I felt an immediate connection because of how honest and vulnerable he was from the start. Levi details it all, from the moment he hit rock bottom, to his journey checking into a facility, to uncovering generational family traumas, and more.
Visit my blog to read my full review: https://herdigitalcoffee.com/radical-...
I was deeply inspired by Radical Love. Levi shared his emotional journey and struggles with mental health in such an authentic way. There was a part in this book where Levi details his inner conflict for seeking help, in fears that it would get out into the media and paint him in a negative light. After reading this book, you can see how far Levi's come in dismantling the stigma behind mental health. As the reader, I felt an immediate connection because of how honest and vulnerable he was from the start. Levi details it all, from the moment he hit rock bottom, to his journey checking into a facility, to uncovering generational family traumas, and more.
Visit my blog to read my full review: https://herdigitalcoffee.com/radical-...
March 30, 2023
4.5⭐️ it’s a very brave thing to be some raw about mental health it’s quite another thing to do it for the world to read. Kudos Zachary. You achieved this feat with grace and love. Well done
September 8, 2024
It is so easy to forget that celebrities are people too. They go through much of the same "stuff" us non-celebrities go through. When I saw Zac Levi was putting out a book on his mental health battles, I immediately pre-ordered it. He's one of my favorite celebrities, but also it's very rare for a male to talk about, much more write about, their mental health struggles.
It is so easy to dismiss the book as "oh, poor, little (but really super tall), white, male celebrity. Had a tough childhood and tough time making it in Hollywood." But when you get past the celebrity factor and see you are reading about a real person, struggling with what so many of us (especially us perfectionists) struggle with, the book become relatable with some snippets of sound advice.
The book was relatable to me in so many ways, maybe it's the Libra, nerd, and Xennial connection? But also, I had by many standards a great childhood, but beneath the surface generational trauma that has impacted my mental health.
Although not everyone's cup of tea, especially the heavy religious mentions, overall I think the book presents a very real picture of a celebrity who continues to work on himself after a complete breakdown. It's the work many of us are doing on ourselves right now.
The book wasn't groundbreaking or even particularly noteworthy by many standards. It felt disjointed at times but I feel it was written in such a way that you pick it up and read the chapter you need to read most. It was not meant to be read cover to cover. It is a book I will probably go back to when I'm feeling low, just for the sake of saying, "someone else out there felt the same way I feel right now, and they got through it, so can I." Or at very least asking myself in a Morgan Grimes sort of fashion, "what would Chuck do?"
It is so easy to dismiss the book as "oh, poor, little (but really super tall), white, male celebrity. Had a tough childhood and tough time making it in Hollywood." But when you get past the celebrity factor and see you are reading about a real person, struggling with what so many of us (especially us perfectionists) struggle with, the book become relatable with some snippets of sound advice.
The book was relatable to me in so many ways, maybe it's the Libra, nerd, and Xennial connection? But also, I had by many standards a great childhood, but beneath the surface generational trauma that has impacted my mental health.
Although not everyone's cup of tea, especially the heavy religious mentions, overall I think the book presents a very real picture of a celebrity who continues to work on himself after a complete breakdown. It's the work many of us are doing on ourselves right now.
The book wasn't groundbreaking or even particularly noteworthy by many standards. It felt disjointed at times but I feel it was written in such a way that you pick it up and read the chapter you need to read most. It was not meant to be read cover to cover. It is a book I will probably go back to when I'm feeling low, just for the sake of saying, "someone else out there felt the same way I feel right now, and they got through it, so can I." Or at very least asking myself in a Morgan Grimes sort of fashion, "what would Chuck do?"
October 24, 2024
Deleting my previous review bc what is this man even saying anymore.
June 30, 2022
Such a beautifully vulnerable memoir about his struggle with mental health, depression and suicidal thoughts. I had no idea Zachary Levi struggled so much and it was so brave and affirming to listen to him talk about his very personal battles with happiness, family traumas and deciding to try medication (a step that I definitely feel a lot of us struggle with, myself included). Great on audio read by the author himself and HIGHLY recommended for anyone who's ever had mental health challenges (and I mean honestly, who among us hasn't after going through a pandemic!?!?).
Favorite quote:
"Healing is a process. It's an ongoing process and it's never done...Healing is acceptance, radical acceptance. It's being patient with yourself and not beating yourself up over unmet expectations - either yours or others and not basing your worth on external validation."
Favorite quote:
"Healing is a process. It's an ongoing process and it's never done...Healing is acceptance, radical acceptance. It's being patient with yourself and not beating yourself up over unmet expectations - either yours or others and not basing your worth on external validation."
August 22, 2022
There’s a lot to unpack with this book, but there were some fantastic points and I appreciated how open and honest Zachery Levi was. I’m going to need to go through this again with a pen, but first time going through was very powerful. If you’re struggling with any sort of mental health issue, would highly recommend reading this book.
May 11, 2022
Radical love is part self-help, part memoir from Zachary Levi, the actor most well-known for portraying DC's Shazam. I discovered Zac on a TV series called Chuck in 2007 and have been a fan ever since. I knew he'd dealt with mental health issues over the years, but I didn't know the extent and was curious to see what he had to say about what he'd been through. I had the opportunity to meet him a handful of times and he always had this big, friendly, happy-go-lucky personality. It really is true that you can't truly know a person. I never would have known his struggle.
He's very open and honest about his childhood trauma and how it continued to follow him into adulthood. There are anecdotes that are just heartbreaking. At times, I wished I could have reached through the pages and hugged him. He wants people to know they aren't alone, and that getting help is important. There's a lot of focus on spirituality, but he also goes into what he learned when he admitted himself in a Mental Health facility, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and enneagram types.
I'm very happy to know he got help, knows that mental health is something that can't be "cured", and continues to get help when needed. I love that he advocates for Mental Health on his social media and as an ambassador for the Active Minds, a non-profit, young adult mental health advocacy program.
I think this book is a benefit to anyone who is either a fan of Zac's or thinks they are alone in their Mental Health struggle.
Thank you to Harper Collins and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
He's very open and honest about his childhood trauma and how it continued to follow him into adulthood. There are anecdotes that are just heartbreaking. At times, I wished I could have reached through the pages and hugged him. He wants people to know they aren't alone, and that getting help is important. There's a lot of focus on spirituality, but he also goes into what he learned when he admitted himself in a Mental Health facility, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and enneagram types.
I'm very happy to know he got help, knows that mental health is something that can't be "cured", and continues to get help when needed. I love that he advocates for Mental Health on his social media and as an ambassador for the Active Minds, a non-profit, young adult mental health advocacy program.
I think this book is a benefit to anyone who is either a fan of Zac's or thinks they are alone in their Mental Health struggle.
Thank you to Harper Collins and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2022
Very real. Very raw.
When I heard that Zac Levi was writing a book, I managed to snag a signed copy within minutes — dream come true — so I was excited to read this one, to say the least. I just didn’t expect to resonate so closely with it. This is an intense nonfiction novel, and Levi works to dismantle his childhood traumas with the reader alongside. He doesn’t pull any punches, and we get a very truthful look into his life, his mindset, and what has molded him along his way. I often found myself chuckling one moment and tearing up the next.
This one served as a reminder to understand the people who affect us profoundly — not to approve of what someone has done to you, but to understand their own problems that cause them to lash out. That God can use us in unexpected ways — we should always strive to be a Beth — and that it’s never okay to suffer in silence.
When I heard that Zac Levi was writing a book, I managed to snag a signed copy within minutes — dream come true — so I was excited to read this one, to say the least. I just didn’t expect to resonate so closely with it. This is an intense nonfiction novel, and Levi works to dismantle his childhood traumas with the reader alongside. He doesn’t pull any punches, and we get a very truthful look into his life, his mindset, and what has molded him along his way. I often found myself chuckling one moment and tearing up the next.
This one served as a reminder to understand the people who affect us profoundly — not to approve of what someone has done to you, but to understand their own problems that cause them to lash out. That God can use us in unexpected ways — we should always strive to be a Beth — and that it’s never okay to suffer in silence.
August 31, 2022
ALL THE STARS. I devoured this. Sure, it may have been a case of "right book/right time," but I know it's far more than that. Zachary Levi is completely vulnerable and raw here. This means there is some language for those of you sensitive to that, but for me, it was merely his way of being honest and not sugarcoating how hard and hopeless things were/are/can be. But make no mistake, this book is inspiring and brimming with hope. It will make anyone realize that they are not alone, there is something relatable for everyone here, even though it's coming from his own very personal viewpoint. ZL is a brother in Christ to all and I hope this book helps many people like me who are still reeling through the healing. Time to embrace the freedom that comes from radical love.
July 22, 2022
I'm always a bit wary of celebrity memoirs because I'm not sure I want to know all the details of their dirty laundry. But this book is about so much more than Zachary Levi's life. While it includes a lot more swear words than I expected, I appreciate Zach's honest approach about mental health in both his own life and in opening up the conversation, trying to make it normal to talk about mental health without all the stigmas surrounding it. The things he has to say to provide encouragement to those struggling with similar issues is moving and heartfelt and empowering. I definitely didn't listen to this audiobook with dry eyes.
Also, the audiobook is 100% the way to go because Zach reads the book in a way that seems like he's sitting down to have a conversation with you, to tell you his story. I appreciate the range of voices he used in telling his tale.
Also, the audiobook is 100% the way to go because Zach reads the book in a way that seems like he's sitting down to have a conversation with you, to tell you his story. I appreciate the range of voices he used in telling his tale.
October 8, 2022
This was fascinating and enlightening and vulnerable.
Frankly, as I know ZL to be a Christian I was worried that this was going to be dripping with thought terminating clichés, but I am pleased to tell you it was not.
Levi takes us through his life long experience with anxiety and depression and how he confronted it and continues to live with it in a way that leaves him less desperate and more fulfilled.
A very enjoyable and quick read
Frankly, as I know ZL to be a Christian I was worried that this was going to be dripping with thought terminating clichés, but I am pleased to tell you it was not.
Levi takes us through his life long experience with anxiety and depression and how he confronted it and continues to live with it in a way that leaves him less desperate and more fulfilled.
A very enjoyable and quick read
October 26, 2024
Changing my review. Enough said.
April 27, 2022
Zach Levi is open and honest here about his struggles with mental illness. His recovery is a long process with set backs and an eventual understanding that this is a daily, chronic problem. It can be managed, but not cured.
The book meanders a bit and the language is atrocious. Where the book shines is when he is just telling the story without side commentary. I can appreciate the vulnerability it took to share his life like this, and I applaud him for doing so. The book is not linear and so it gets repetitive occasionally.
Not family friendly due to language.
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of the book. My opinion is my own.
The book meanders a bit and the language is atrocious. Where the book shines is when he is just telling the story without side commentary. I can appreciate the vulnerability it took to share his life like this, and I applaud him for doing so. The book is not linear and so it gets repetitive occasionally.
Not family friendly due to language.
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of the book. My opinion is my own.
February 1, 2024
I don't know what is it with me and celebrity memoirs lately but apparently I'm enjoying them quite a bit. I didn't really know anything about Zachary Levi apart from the TV series he's starred in but the title caught my eye. This was a bit too Jesus-y for my like but whatever helps him, I guess. Other than that, I found his mental health journey easy to empathize with.
June 6, 2023
I listened to the audio version of this book and thought the author did a fantastic job. He talks about his mental health, generational trauma and his faith in an open and vulnerable way. The book hopefully helps in normalizing discussions around mental health and addiction and how it effects all of us.
September 30, 2022
4.5 Stars
This was a great memoir. An unflinching look at the life experiences that factored into his struggles with anxiety and depression and the things he did to address them. I was a little concerned when he started talking about his faith in God, but it never felt preachy or pushy. Overall, the memoir is a realistic, yet hopeful look at a tough mental health struggle and the journey to healing.
This was a great memoir. An unflinching look at the life experiences that factored into his struggles with anxiety and depression and the things he did to address them. I was a little concerned when he started talking about his faith in God, but it never felt preachy or pushy. Overall, the memoir is a realistic, yet hopeful look at a tough mental health struggle and the journey to healing.
February 6, 2023
I shall preface this by saying (mostly for any of my friends who may read this review)... I am NOT at all the kind of person to read biographies of celebrities. Truthfully, I have very little interest in their personal lives. However, being a massive fan of the show "Chuck" & knowing Zachary Levi alluded to having a Christian faith, to say the least...I was curious!
What I liked about this book:
1. Levi uses his platform to bring awareness to the need for therapy & that getting therapy is okay. He also makes the point of needing to do your research & if you need help, find it; because you are loved & not alone.
2. The emphasis he put on forgiveness & reconciliation was a breath of fresh air. Levi goes into great detail about the trauma he endured as a child (as well as a young adult) & although he couldn't quite reconcile instead of choosing to remain bitter against his parents he chose forgiveness.
3. I listened to the audiobook version narrated by Levi himself. He's an absolute hoot to listen to so I found myself laughing quite a bit!
What I struggled with:
1. Although Levi does profess a Christian faith, quotes scripture & references the Bible multiple times in this book I took issue with what seemed like him giving praise to the healing power of psychotherapy over the healing power of Jesus. Albeit, he did give credit to God several times & there is certainly healing in therapy but I kept getting the impression he was relying more on the power of oneself over relying on the power of God.
2. The amount of unnecessary profanity. I personally don't mind some language here & there but the overwhelming amount of f-bombs was ridiculous.
Overall, Levi does well in encouraging any individual struggling with mental illness to seek help. He personally attests to the effectiveness of therapy as well as the power of prayer. But, you have to be willing to wade through a lot of profanity & some potentially skeptical Biblical perspectives to see that point.
What I liked about this book:
1. Levi uses his platform to bring awareness to the need for therapy & that getting therapy is okay. He also makes the point of needing to do your research & if you need help, find it; because you are loved & not alone.
2. The emphasis he put on forgiveness & reconciliation was a breath of fresh air. Levi goes into great detail about the trauma he endured as a child (as well as a young adult) & although he couldn't quite reconcile instead of choosing to remain bitter against his parents he chose forgiveness.
3. I listened to the audiobook version narrated by Levi himself. He's an absolute hoot to listen to so I found myself laughing quite a bit!
What I struggled with:
1. Although Levi does profess a Christian faith, quotes scripture & references the Bible multiple times in this book I took issue with what seemed like him giving praise to the healing power of psychotherapy over the healing power of Jesus. Albeit, he did give credit to God several times & there is certainly healing in therapy but I kept getting the impression he was relying more on the power of oneself over relying on the power of God.
2. The amount of unnecessary profanity. I personally don't mind some language here & there but the overwhelming amount of f-bombs was ridiculous.
Overall, Levi does well in encouraging any individual struggling with mental illness to seek help. He personally attests to the effectiveness of therapy as well as the power of prayer. But, you have to be willing to wade through a lot of profanity & some potentially skeptical Biblical perspectives to see that point.
August 5, 2022
This is such an incredible book. Zachary Levi took the media attention he got while promoting a movie to bring awareness to the fact that he had just gotten out of a wellness center to treat his depression—and this book is an extension of his platform.
I loved that this wasn’t a celebrity memoir but rather a comprehensive look at the effects of generational trauma and the difference between fixing the problem and healing from the problem. Zachary used psychotherapy, DBT, and finally antidepressants but also prayer and the Enneagram and giving boundaries AND grace to parents who were also raised with trauma.
I love how he detailed his resistance to antidepressants and how he finally found the right one for him. Most importantly, I love how much of this book is about loving and forgiving yourself in order to love and forgive others. Here’s hoping this book reaches whoever needs that message.
I loved that this wasn’t a celebrity memoir but rather a comprehensive look at the effects of generational trauma and the difference between fixing the problem and healing from the problem. Zachary used psychotherapy, DBT, and finally antidepressants but also prayer and the Enneagram and giving boundaries AND grace to parents who were also raised with trauma.
I love how he detailed his resistance to antidepressants and how he finally found the right one for him. Most importantly, I love how much of this book is about loving and forgiving yourself in order to love and forgive others. Here’s hoping this book reaches whoever needs that message.
June 5, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins for the opportunity to read an Advanced Copy Of Zachary Levi's Radical Love.
I first saw Zachary Levi in Chuck and absolutely loved that series. I continued to be impressed with his performances in Tangled, First Date, She Loves Me, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Shazam! and American Underdog. This did not prepare me for how much I loved this book. My childhood has many similarities to Zachary's and I have also struggled working through my trauma. I think this book does a beautiful job portraying his challenges and mental health battles. It is a raw, brutally honest memoir that gives hope to working though generational trauma.
I first saw Zachary Levi in Chuck and absolutely loved that series. I continued to be impressed with his performances in Tangled, First Date, She Loves Me, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Shazam! and American Underdog. This did not prepare me for how much I loved this book. My childhood has many similarities to Zachary's and I have also struggled working through my trauma. I think this book does a beautiful job portraying his challenges and mental health battles. It is a raw, brutally honest memoir that gives hope to working though generational trauma.
August 13, 2022
I was a fan of Chuck, adored Zachary Levi (and his singing voice) as Flynn Rider in Tangled and loved him as the titular Shazam. I've always found him funny and he seemed so affable that I would've never known he's suffering from depression and anxiety had I not read this book. Sometimes a bit too preachy and repetitive, but I think this is also his way of reaching out and using his platform in helping normalizing mental health issues, aside from sharing his own harrowing experience.
I now have come to appreciate and respect him more in a different light because of this.
I now have come to appreciate and respect him more in a different light because of this.
January 22, 2023
This book is very honest and soulful. Anyone who bares so much honestly becomes a personal hero to me.
January 10, 2023
I’ve been a fan of Zachary Levi since his Chuck days. I have always respected him as an actor and wanted to see him in more. When he started talking about his mental health on social media these last couple of years, I was so curious about his journey. I was thrilled to see that he wrote a book about it, so I dove right in. I highly recommend listening to the audiobook, as he’s the one reading it. You can hear the depth of emotion, the humor, the struggle, heartache, and triumphs in his voice. I was shocked to hear his story, and moreso since it has many parallels to my own. It was fascinating to hear an actor who I respect so much describe similar challenges that I’ve faced with my own mother. I laughed at times because it felt like he was describing my life and I felt less alone knowing that others have faced similar battles. It was insightful to hear his own journey and how he’s worked so hard to overcome his trauma and challenge the ways he’s always viewed himself. He’s learned to give himself grace and love himself. And he related this to his faith and walk with God. It was inspiring to listen to and I especially appreciate that he said it’s a journey. Mental health doesn’t always have a defining “end,” but it ebbs and flows in different seasons. He lets readers know that’s how his journey is and it isn’t one without hope. One final note is that there is a fair amount of swearing, which I’ve seen come criticism about. His book is an authentic description of his experiences and, for him, the swearing is simply part of how he describes various situations, thoughts, and feelings. I didn’t feel like it was too much, because we all process in different ways. He was not offensive toward the readers in any way. If swearing is something that bothers you, I’d encourage you to keep an open mind. This is his unfiltered accounting of his journey, and I’m glad he had the freedom to express it in the way that’s best for him.
August 24, 2022
A refreshingly open and honest look at mental health. You won't necessarily learn anything new, but there IS a welcome openness in the "this is what I deal with and if I talk about it, maybe more people will stop attaching such a stigma to it." approach that Zac uses. Even if you don't struggle with mental health, read this! It will help you see what people who do deal with it go thru and how you can support them.
August 31, 2022
Zachary Levi shares his struggles with mental health, the unhealthy childhood that created many of them, and some of the things that helped him on his journey to a healthier mental and emotional self in this very raw and vulnerable book. I'm a huge fan of Zachary Levi and have followed him on Twitter and in the news for years, and it was mind-blowing to me to hear about what he was going through mentally and emotionally during some of the times in his life when, from an outsider's perspective, he seemed to be happy and thriving.
In fact, he describes the period in his life when hit complete rock bottom and finally realized he needed serious help with his mental health. His sister found a hardcore mental health facility and had him all set to go in a few weeks, but he had a few commitments he had to fulfill until that time. He doesn't mention this, but one of those was Salt Lake Comic Con in September 2017. I lived maybe 20 minutes from the convention center and wanted to go SO BADLY, but I had a less-than-a-month old baby and was recovering from childbirth myself, so I didn't go. However, a friend of mine went and got to meet Zac, and she said he was one of the most delightfully goofy and charming people she's ever met. And yet, reading this book, I realize now that on the inside, he was a completely broken man. It's just a testament to the fact that you never know what's going on with another person and you should be kind always.
This book is mostly about Zac's experiences and what he learned about himself, but he also shares helpful tips about things that helped him that may be helpful for the reader. Even just describing some of the treatments and therapies he experienced was helpful for me. I too have a horribly mean inner voice and will now be investigating DBT since I didn't know there was a specific therapy for that. Those who are struggling with mental and emotional health issues may find this book helpful either because Zac's tips and suggestions are helpful or because they feel less alone in their struggles.
This book was interesting but also devastating to read because it was so hard to read the ugly reality of Zachary Levi's growing up years and years in Hollywood and what that has done to him as a person. But it was also inspiring to see that he had all that thrown at him and has been able to overcome it. My other main hesitation in recommending this book, at least to my close family and friends with similar values, is Zac's love of the f-word. I knew this about him already (and it makes so much sense now knowing that he heard it screamed at himself and those around him his entire childhood), but he definitely doesn't hold back or edit himself in this book. That's his prerogative as he's baring his soul, but I know there are people who would not appreciate reading that and would like to be forewarned. So consider yourself forewarned.
In fact, he describes the period in his life when hit complete rock bottom and finally realized he needed serious help with his mental health. His sister found a hardcore mental health facility and had him all set to go in a few weeks, but he had a few commitments he had to fulfill until that time. He doesn't mention this, but one of those was Salt Lake Comic Con in September 2017. I lived maybe 20 minutes from the convention center and wanted to go SO BADLY, but I had a less-than-a-month old baby and was recovering from childbirth myself, so I didn't go. However, a friend of mine went and got to meet Zac, and she said he was one of the most delightfully goofy and charming people she's ever met. And yet, reading this book, I realize now that on the inside, he was a completely broken man. It's just a testament to the fact that you never know what's going on with another person and you should be kind always.
This book is mostly about Zac's experiences and what he learned about himself, but he also shares helpful tips about things that helped him that may be helpful for the reader. Even just describing some of the treatments and therapies he experienced was helpful for me. I too have a horribly mean inner voice and will now be investigating DBT since I didn't know there was a specific therapy for that. Those who are struggling with mental and emotional health issues may find this book helpful either because Zac's tips and suggestions are helpful or because they feel less alone in their struggles.
This book was interesting but also devastating to read because it was so hard to read the ugly reality of Zachary Levi's growing up years and years in Hollywood and what that has done to him as a person. But it was also inspiring to see that he had all that thrown at him and has been able to overcome it. My other main hesitation in recommending this book, at least to my close family and friends with similar values, is Zac's love of the f-word. I knew this about him already (and it makes so much sense now knowing that he heard it screamed at himself and those around him his entire childhood), but he definitely doesn't hold back or edit himself in this book. That's his prerogative as he's baring his soul, but I know there are people who would not appreciate reading that and would like to be forewarned. So consider yourself forewarned.
August 24, 2022
i pre-ordered this book with the thought “oh i like zachary levi. i will support him.” even though i have been the recipient of many “i wouldn’t have guessed you struggle with depression & anxiety.” comments, i immediately thought it when he promoted it. and since it was more of a story and less of a what to do to fix yourself type book i was excited to read it.
i have been dealing with my own mental illness for almost a decade. i didn’t anticipate the breakthroughs i would have.
this book is full of highlights and notes. what i thought would be a quick two day read took me weeks to consume and reflect on. i cried multiple times throughout this book and entirely through the last chapter.
reading zac’s story, i found his mom to be relatable to myself. and it terrified me. a glimpse of what my unresolved brokenness could become.
i loved that it read like zac was sitting there casually telling just another story. his personality came through the informal style of writing. i loved it. it made the heavy parts lighter.
zac’s story is one of hope. and raw emotion. every single person, mental illness or not, everyone should read this book.
i have been dealing with my own mental illness for almost a decade. i didn’t anticipate the breakthroughs i would have.
this book is full of highlights and notes. what i thought would be a quick two day read took me weeks to consume and reflect on. i cried multiple times throughout this book and entirely through the last chapter.
reading zac’s story, i found his mom to be relatable to myself. and it terrified me. a glimpse of what my unresolved brokenness could become.
i loved that it read like zac was sitting there casually telling just another story. his personality came through the informal style of writing. i loved it. it made the heavy parts lighter.
zac’s story is one of hope. and raw emotion. every single person, mental illness or not, everyone should read this book.
June 26, 2022
My 19 yo son, Zachary texted me from the dentist’s chair, saying he wanted to to read this book by Zachary Levi. I was like, me too! My son said, I like the guy, he’s a good actor, and I like is ideals. It’s a rare moment my son and I are interested in the same thing. He was impressed I was able to review an advanced copy before the release! Now we are both reading the same book, looking forward to buying a paper copy, and discussing some similarities between our lives and Zachary Levi’s life. There’s the common first name, the generational mental health related traumas, and the resilience. I am thankful for this book and the connection it helped foster with my son. Thank you to the author Zachary Levi for lessening the stigma related to mental health.
August 13, 2023
I wrote an absolutely epic review, was nearly finished, and the app crashed. I’ll write it out again soon, but for the moment, I’ll suffice with saying this: I don’t agree with every word in the book, but I don’t have to to endorse it wholeheartedly. I think everyone high school age and above would benefit from reading this book.
It is raw, it is emotional, and it will leave you a better person for having experienced it.
Content warning- it contains semi-frequent salty language and discusses highly emotionally sensitive topics such as substance abuse, suicidal ideation and attempts, emotional and verbal abuse of various kinds, and other mental health topics. But it does so in a way that elevates the reader, and inspires both a greater understanding of the subject matter as well as a greater love for others and for yourself, all with a perfectly genuine voice, faith, and love. 10/10 would recommend.
It is raw, it is emotional, and it will leave you a better person for having experienced it.
Content warning- it contains semi-frequent salty language and discusses highly emotionally sensitive topics such as substance abuse, suicidal ideation and attempts, emotional and verbal abuse of various kinds, and other mental health topics. But it does so in a way that elevates the reader, and inspires both a greater understanding of the subject matter as well as a greater love for others and for yourself, all with a perfectly genuine voice, faith, and love. 10/10 would recommend.
February 16, 2023
Not what I expected from a book called Radical Love that's written by one of the few famous actors who publicly identifies himself as a Christian -- it's more Whitney Houston ("Greatest Love of All") than Gospel of John ("Greater love has no one than this..."), more in praise of psychotherapy than of Jesus. The overwhelming number of f-bombs almost made me give up, but I did appreciate Levi's candor enough to finish the book.
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