Matt McAvoy Book Review

It is very unusual for me to read a book more than once, yet that is precisely what I intend to do with The Art of Accepting Yourself.  Marlow will probably seethe when I say that I read the entire book from cover to cover, in a single sitting – and thoroughly enjoyed every page of it, because that isn’t the point of this book at all.  It is not a passive read, but rather more a self-help course; it is much more than simple affirmation and positive reinforcement – though there is plenty of that, too.  You are encouraged not just to read, but to participate.  Accepting yourself, in this instance, is not just an art; it is an interactive project.  Therefore, it is my intention to go through it again, just as intended: with a notebook, engaging with all of its exercises, in order to learn as much about myself as possible, and to optimize the positive aspects in my life.

I get sent quite a few of this type of book and, in fairness, if you read my reviews, you’ll see that they generally rate quite highly.  This isn’t necessarily because I have an affinity with this genre, but rather because I acknowledge the hard work and professionalism which usually goes into creating them.  This book is no different; it is a work of tremendous quality, and a real showcase for the author’s knowledge, credentials and overall wisdom.  Marlow knows his basic psychology as a subject, and this complete and holistic course covers introspection from all of its main schools, though most notably the biological and social; the bibliography is chock-full of well-known studies in the field.  Marlow appears to have some academic or professional experience, either in the field or from the couch, perhaps in the capacity of counsellor or therapist.  His affirmations and overall advice are good, and totally comprehensive.  The exercises he sets are more than just superficial – they are genuinely reflective.  He presents this book as a subject in itself, encouraging us to address ourselves through a positive lens, discarding and overturning the negatives, and focusing on fortifying our self-esteem, self-confidence and self-actualization, using the tools of basic psychology, learning and mindfulness, among others.  Marlow is not just a good therapist, though; he is a superb writer, with a caring, relatable voice, which compels you not only to humour him, but to join him in his intention; you believe him, and straight away that fosters faith that his method might just work.  I think so – enough so that I aim to find out. 

This is as good a holistic motivational self-help guide as you will read, though I strongly recommend that you don’t read it as I have, but interactively, and with an open-minded positivity – just as the author intended.