Over the weekend I read This Is How: Proven Aid in Overcoming Shyness, Molestation, Fatness, Spinsterhood, Grief, Disease, Lushery, Decrepitude & More. For Young and Old Alike by Augusten Burroughs. This was a rare case where I started reading a book without any expectations at all, because I had not read any reviews or even descriptions of the book. Since I am a fan of A.B. I put it on hold at the Lawrence Public Library without knowing anything about it. I assumed it would be a collection of true stories or vignettes like some of his previous books have been. And while he does write a little about some things that have happened in his life, it is mostly a self-help book.And really, I can't think of anyone more qualified to write a self-help book that Augusten Burroughs. I mean, the guy had a horrible childhood, was a major alcoholic/addict as a young adult, and has not only lived to tell about it but is also a successful author. I don't usually like self help books, but I liked this one because it seemed more honest than others. It read like Burroughs was talking to a friend who was going through a hard time. The only thing that didn't work for me (and is why I gave it 4 out of 5 stars on Goodreads) was that it wasn't the right timing. Knock on wood, but my life is pretty good right now and I am not experiencing any major traumas that this book would be helpful with. It's like eating really good food when you are not hungry. It's still good, but it would have been best when you were actually hungry.
Bottom line it is worth a read either way, but would be especially good if you are experiencing hard times.
