Shaun’s review of Tuesdays with Morrie: An Old Man, a Young Man, and Life's Greatest Lesson > Likes and Comments
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Caroline wrote: "I thought your review was spot on. Excellent."
Thanks!
100% agree with your review. Actually, your short assessment of death right there had more depth than the entire book!
Kita wrote: "100% agree with your review. Actually, your short assessment of death right there had more depth than the entire book!"
Yeah, he really didn't venture much beyond the surface with this one. But I guess sometimes "make-you-feel-good-superficial-sentiments" sell.
"A Hallmark card on steroids" Classic line Shaun, love it.
It's interesting. I completely concur with you in agreeing that both the 5 star and 1 star reviews are equally valid! How can this be? My own mother is currently deteriorating with ALS, a truly horrible disease. It was helpful to hear about someone else's methods of dealing with the challenges but Morrie can't seem to help coming off as self serving. Author Mitch Albom also seems to be falling over himself to atone for his perceived past sins. It's not great literature but there is some real wisdom here among the syrupy sentimentality that will likely be helpful to anyone struggling with this illness either directly or indirectly - as it was for me.
Dale wrote: "It's interesting. I completely concur with you in agreeing that both the 5 star and 1 star reviews are equally valid! How can this be? My own mother is currently deteriorating with ALS, a truly ..."
Dale, thanks for sharing your story. I'm so sorry to hear about your mother. I've come across a number of videos recently of celebrities and even friends pouring ice water over their heads then sharing on social networks like facebook in an effort to raise awareness. I can certainly appreciate what you say about this being helpful for those dealing with ALS, either directly or indirectly. So, despite its faults, the fact that this book raises awareness gives it some credibility.
I think had Albom been a better and more competent writer (and maybe even person), this could have been substantially more powerful and helpful to the masses.
If you're gonna to preach to your readers you had better have something worthwhile and insightful to say. Of course, the story itself stands alone as do most stories that address our mortality. In that sense, I think it's a beautiful and poignant story but a somewhat sappy presentation, lacking in real insight.
Like you say, not great literature. But hey, Hallmark cards have their place and serve a purpose. I have not read his other books, but from reviews I've read they all seem to be the same format and equally as sappy, yet still selling...so obviously he's fulfilling a need for someone.
Exactly my opinion too (even though I didn't realize before reading your review :D).
Aljona wrote: "Exactly my opinion too (even though I didn't realize before reading your review :D)."
Thanks, Aljona. Glad it resonated.
I think that this book probably rings more true with those who have regular day to day contact with the dying. This is really what it has been like for me as I volunteer with hospice. Morrie's nuggets of wisdom about love and community are echoed by many others.
I agree with your ideas about the book lacking a reason to believe in Morrie's philosophy. He seems to lack a fear of death for no obvious reason. The only way somebody should not fear death is through a belief in God. Only then can a person adequately confront death with no fear. While I enjoyed the book and gave it a five star rating, I certainly agree with your analysis of some of Morrie’s philosophy. However, I do not think that death needs to scare everybody like you say it does. Given a secular viewpoint of the world, you are right, it should. However, looking at the world in the light of God, death becomes much less scary. Knowing that there is somebody watching out for us and that death is not the end gives Christians the strength to face death without fear.
Collin wrote: "I agree with your ideas about the book lacking a reason to believe in Morrie's philosophy. He seems to lack a fear of death for no obvious reason. The only way somebody should not fear death is thr..."
"Knowing that there is somebody watching out for us and that death is not the end gives Christians the strength to face death without fear."
I actually think this is one of the reasons that men created gods and why religion and beliefs in various gods continues despite a lack of evidence and actually contrary to the evidence.
But I think some people believe it's simply better to face your fears, than to tell yourself fairytales about psychopaths who live in the sky.
Fear of the unknown is the most natural thing in the world and thus fear of the unknowable creates a similar unease. I would argue even most Christians fear death. Though, I suppose a good example of someone who doesn't fear death because of their belief in an afterlife is the radical islamic terrorist. He really doesn't fear death...actually chooses it...as a means to get to the really good life promised him by his religion (an offshoot of Christianity, btw).
I've always wondered why Christians and various religious people don't actively seek out death, seeing as they truly believe that the afterlife is paradise. I mean, really what is the point of life then? What is the value of suffering or our time on earth if our souls originate in heaven? Why bother with this tiny little blip on the infinite time line of eternity? Is it some sort of test to see who deserves to return?
I can see the defense/headline now...parent suffocates child to give it a better life in heaven. No crime here...only mercy. In fact, it's a sacrifice, a true unselfish act.
But, I guess if in the end religion and the promises it makes are a positive force in someone's life, helps them come to terms with their mortality in a way that they can deal with...then good for those who find peace, if they truly do find peace.
Jenn wrote: "I think that this book probably rings more true with those who have regular day to day contact with the dying. This is really what it has been like for me as I volunteer with hospice. Morrie's nugg..."
You're right. I think much of what he says does resonate. But I also think his "insights" aren't really all that insightful or new. He doesn't bring anything new to the table or the conversation.
I couldn't agree with you more. I never liked reading until a friend recommended this book
I totally agree . Certainly a worthwhile endeavor ,yet something is lacking . perhaps tjis was Alboms intention?
I do have to disagree with several reviewers regarding the comforts of religion. I am a former seminary student and was a devout member of my Catholic church for most of my life. In my own experience i only truly lost a fear of death when I became an atheist. The torments of hell always bothered me, seeming inexplicably cruel and incomprehensibly malicious. I am now enchanted by the prospect of my atoms returning to the universe from whence they originated.
This review is perfect! I also gave the book 3 stars but couldn't find the words to describe how I felt about it. Well, this is it! I enjoyed reading the book. It was sweet and sad, it touched some interesting topics but it also felt kind of flat! It reminded me of all these questions I've already asked myself without really providing any answers or new insights. Mhhh
Maya wrote: "This review is perfect! I also gave the book 3 stars but couldn't find the words to describe how I felt about it. Well, this is it! I enjoyed reading the book. It was sweet and sad, it touched some..." Exactly!
This excellent review is exactly what I felt about this book! While the book does make you pause and re-think some of your priorities and general direction in life, it's somewhat of a (and I don't intend any disrespect).. hack. It does have slightly privileged tones to its advice. Plus, it's specifically designed to make you cry. However, yes, reminders like these are good to have around - things you go through once in a while.
I'm halfway through and feeling exactly the same way! If this had been my first Mitch Albom book I'd not be interested in the rest.
This is the best and very balanced review I’ve read about this book. Thank you!
I love your review incredibly! I too wrote something along these lines but not as striking.
I was going to write a review but yours says everything there is to say .
A magazine article stretched was how I felt, with plenty of ego. Skipped a lot.
Spot-on review! This is exactly how I felt.
I too got that feeling of hallmark cards on steroids but what I think makes it special is to actually mean those things and live by it when you're dying. He took everyone on a journey and held everyone's hand even though he was the one dying.
I did not see anywhere that this book offers a “life hack” or the “meaning of life”.
It’s a perspective, it’s a story.
What anyone does with their own life is their business, and there are definitely many “correct” pathways to reach a fulfilling life.
I can talk about running and how it changed my life for hours, yet, I don’t expect you to start running, nor Morrie expects you to start loving.
It's funny that your review is between the 5 star review and the 1 star review.
Hmm. I politely disagree. The point may be that there is simplicity in how to live life. Be okay with death. Confront it. Stay with your loved ones. Love a lot. I think it’s good to have these reminders. Furthermore, this story is about Mitch. How Mitch sees Morrie, their relationship, and how he has grown in his principles since meeting his mentor.
I feel like this was the point Morrie was making. We dismiss these concepts as “hallmark” sayings. Instead of really FOCUSING on it. Really EMBRACE it instead of waving it away as a hallmark quote.
Completely agree. Thank you for articulating this so well.
My thoughts exactly. You nailed it with this review
I agree with this review, but I also thought the author was very emotionally and spiritually absent in the writing. Sure, we see evidence of growth but no growing pains. It's a bit emotionally sterile, imo.
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Caroline wrote: "I thought your review was spot on. Excellent."Thanks!
100% agree with your review. Actually, your short assessment of death right there had more depth than the entire book!
Kita wrote: "100% agree with your review. Actually, your short assessment of death right there had more depth than the entire book!"Yeah, he really didn't venture much beyond the surface with this one. But I guess sometimes "make-you-feel-good-superficial-sentiments" sell.
"A Hallmark card on steroids" Classic line Shaun, love it.
It's interesting. I completely concur with you in agreeing that both the 5 star and 1 star reviews are equally valid! How can this be? My own mother is currently deteriorating with ALS, a truly horrible disease. It was helpful to hear about someone else's methods of dealing with the challenges but Morrie can't seem to help coming off as self serving. Author Mitch Albom also seems to be falling over himself to atone for his perceived past sins. It's not great literature but there is some real wisdom here among the syrupy sentimentality that will likely be helpful to anyone struggling with this illness either directly or indirectly - as it was for me.
Dale wrote: "It's interesting. I completely concur with you in agreeing that both the 5 star and 1 star reviews are equally valid! How can this be? My own mother is currently deteriorating with ALS, a truly ..."Dale, thanks for sharing your story. I'm so sorry to hear about your mother. I've come across a number of videos recently of celebrities and even friends pouring ice water over their heads then sharing on social networks like facebook in an effort to raise awareness. I can certainly appreciate what you say about this being helpful for those dealing with ALS, either directly or indirectly. So, despite its faults, the fact that this book raises awareness gives it some credibility.
I think had Albom been a better and more competent writer (and maybe even person), this could have been substantially more powerful and helpful to the masses.
If you're gonna to preach to your readers you had better have something worthwhile and insightful to say. Of course, the story itself stands alone as do most stories that address our mortality. In that sense, I think it's a beautiful and poignant story but a somewhat sappy presentation, lacking in real insight.
Like you say, not great literature. But hey, Hallmark cards have their place and serve a purpose. I have not read his other books, but from reviews I've read they all seem to be the same format and equally as sappy, yet still selling...so obviously he's fulfilling a need for someone.
Exactly my opinion too (even though I didn't realize before reading your review :D).
Aljona wrote: "Exactly my opinion too (even though I didn't realize before reading your review :D)."Thanks, Aljona. Glad it resonated.
I think that this book probably rings more true with those who have regular day to day contact with the dying. This is really what it has been like for me as I volunteer with hospice. Morrie's nuggets of wisdom about love and community are echoed by many others.
I agree with your ideas about the book lacking a reason to believe in Morrie's philosophy. He seems to lack a fear of death for no obvious reason. The only way somebody should not fear death is through a belief in God. Only then can a person adequately confront death with no fear. While I enjoyed the book and gave it a five star rating, I certainly agree with your analysis of some of Morrie’s philosophy. However, I do not think that death needs to scare everybody like you say it does. Given a secular viewpoint of the world, you are right, it should. However, looking at the world in the light of God, death becomes much less scary. Knowing that there is somebody watching out for us and that death is not the end gives Christians the strength to face death without fear.
Collin wrote: "I agree with your ideas about the book lacking a reason to believe in Morrie's philosophy. He seems to lack a fear of death for no obvious reason. The only way somebody should not fear death is thr...""Knowing that there is somebody watching out for us and that death is not the end gives Christians the strength to face death without fear."
I actually think this is one of the reasons that men created gods and why religion and beliefs in various gods continues despite a lack of evidence and actually contrary to the evidence.
But I think some people believe it's simply better to face your fears, than to tell yourself fairytales about psychopaths who live in the sky.
Fear of the unknown is the most natural thing in the world and thus fear of the unknowable creates a similar unease. I would argue even most Christians fear death. Though, I suppose a good example of someone who doesn't fear death because of their belief in an afterlife is the radical islamic terrorist. He really doesn't fear death...actually chooses it...as a means to get to the really good life promised him by his religion (an offshoot of Christianity, btw).
I've always wondered why Christians and various religious people don't actively seek out death, seeing as they truly believe that the afterlife is paradise. I mean, really what is the point of life then? What is the value of suffering or our time on earth if our souls originate in heaven? Why bother with this tiny little blip on the infinite time line of eternity? Is it some sort of test to see who deserves to return?
I can see the defense/headline now...parent suffocates child to give it a better life in heaven. No crime here...only mercy. In fact, it's a sacrifice, a true unselfish act.
But, I guess if in the end religion and the promises it makes are a positive force in someone's life, helps them come to terms with their mortality in a way that they can deal with...then good for those who find peace, if they truly do find peace.
Jenn wrote: "I think that this book probably rings more true with those who have regular day to day contact with the dying. This is really what it has been like for me as I volunteer with hospice. Morrie's nugg..."You're right. I think much of what he says does resonate. But I also think his "insights" aren't really all that insightful or new. He doesn't bring anything new to the table or the conversation.
I couldn't agree with you more. I never liked reading until a friend recommended this book
I totally agree . Certainly a worthwhile endeavor ,yet something is lacking . perhaps tjis was Alboms intention?
I do have to disagree with several reviewers regarding the comforts of religion. I am a former seminary student and was a devout member of my Catholic church for most of my life. In my own experience i only truly lost a fear of death when I became an atheist. The torments of hell always bothered me, seeming inexplicably cruel and incomprehensibly malicious. I am now enchanted by the prospect of my atoms returning to the universe from whence they originated.
This review is perfect! I also gave the book 3 stars but couldn't find the words to describe how I felt about it. Well, this is it! I enjoyed reading the book. It was sweet and sad, it touched some interesting topics but it also felt kind of flat! It reminded me of all these questions I've already asked myself without really providing any answers or new insights. Mhhh
Maya wrote: "This review is perfect! I also gave the book 3 stars but couldn't find the words to describe how I felt about it. Well, this is it! I enjoyed reading the book. It was sweet and sad, it touched some..." Exactly!
This excellent review is exactly what I felt about this book! While the book does make you pause and re-think some of your priorities and general direction in life, it's somewhat of a (and I don't intend any disrespect).. hack. It does have slightly privileged tones to its advice. Plus, it's specifically designed to make you cry. However, yes, reminders like these are good to have around - things you go through once in a while.
I'm halfway through and feeling exactly the same way! If this had been my first Mitch Albom book I'd not be interested in the rest.
This is the best and very balanced review I’ve read about this book. Thank you!
I love your review incredibly! I too wrote something along these lines but not as striking.
I was going to write a review but yours says everything there is to say .A magazine article stretched was how I felt, with plenty of ego. Skipped a lot.
Spot-on review! This is exactly how I felt.
I too got that feeling of hallmark cards on steroids but what I think makes it special is to actually mean those things and live by it when you're dying. He took everyone on a journey and held everyone's hand even though he was the one dying.
I did not see anywhere that this book offers a “life hack” or the “meaning of life”.It’s a perspective, it’s a story.
What anyone does with their own life is their business, and there are definitely many “correct” pathways to reach a fulfilling life.
I can talk about running and how it changed my life for hours, yet, I don’t expect you to start running, nor Morrie expects you to start loving.
It's funny that your review is between the 5 star review and the 1 star review.
Hmm. I politely disagree. The point may be that there is simplicity in how to live life. Be okay with death. Confront it. Stay with your loved ones. Love a lot. I think it’s good to have these reminders. Furthermore, this story is about Mitch. How Mitch sees Morrie, their relationship, and how he has grown in his principles since meeting his mentor.
I feel like this was the point Morrie was making. We dismiss these concepts as “hallmark” sayings. Instead of really FOCUSING on it. Really EMBRACE it instead of waving it away as a hallmark quote.
Completely agree. Thank you for articulating this so well.
My thoughts exactly. You nailed it with this review
I agree with this review, but I also thought the author was very emotionally and spiritually absent in the writing. Sure, we see evidence of growth but no growing pains. It's a bit emotionally sterile, imo.
I thought your review was spot on. Excellent.