‪Thank you Random House for the free book — which is far out indeed. Eric Utne’s memoir is a signpost at the crossroads of Minnesota and the movement to keep the counterculture alive as the ‘60s disappeared into the rearview. It’s not *the* Utne Reader, but it’s *an* Utne reader.‬

First, I had never heard of Eric Utne or the Utne Reader. Second, Second,I am about five or six years younger than Eric and was drawn to his book because we are of the same generation. I must admit that it took me a few times to get interested in what he had to say. I put the book down in the middle of the epigraphs. Way too many.

I really enjoyed his relationship with his step grandmother. I would have liked to have known Brenda. My maternal grandmother was an amazing person and always treated me as an equal and we had great conversations. I remember the day Kennedy was killed. I can tell you where I was sitting in my seventh grade classroom when my teacher walked in with tears in her eyes. I did not experience the counter culture that Eric did, but I enjoyed reading how he was not afraid to reinvent himself several times. Far Out Man is a good read that can be read all at one time or savored by reading a couple of chapters at a time and spending time ruminating over what you just read.

Thank you Random House and NetGalleyfor an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars
Prior to reading this book, I had heard of Utne Reader, but I had never read it or seen it. Now I know all about its founder, Eric Utne, and the fascinating life he has lived. From aspiring acupuncturist to magazine editor to teacher to a bunch of other things I can't remember, his life's work has been all over the map. His story is an interesting one, but the message of how he has tried to live his life resonates with me even more: Make a difference. Find out what matters, and then do it. Let your voice be heard.

Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for the ARC.