The 60-Something Crisis by Barbara L. Pagano is highly recommended for every working class 60 year old who is starting to think about retirement. Written in short paragraphs, with bullet lists, quotes, and snippets of life experiences, the book offers readers much to think about before they stop working. The section on Geography of Place is especially important for hopeful retirees who dream of relocating to the home of their dreams in the mountains of North Carolina or a beachfront condo in Florida. The book offers the sad but true wisdom that retirement is not all pony rides in the May sunshine--it requires money and health and family and friends.

The 60-Something Crisis details the author’s difficulty with turning 60. I agree that reaching 60 is likely to contain both regrets and joyful memories. However, this book is less how to deal with either and more about the author venting about rich people problems. The 60-Something Crisis is less a self-help book than a memoir. So, for both of those issues for me, the book receives 2 stars.

Thanks to Rowman & Littlefield and NetGalley for a digital review copy of the book.

While containing some good ideas and some helpful advice, I don't think most readers will find this very helpful. The author has a big potential audience, but there are better books on retirement.

Thanks very much for the free ARC for review!!

2.5 self-hype stars
“Formerly an executive coach and seasoned speaker, Barbara has motivated thousands of senior leaders and middle managers to higher levels of performance in work and life.” Pagano uses her extensive experience to encourage 60-somethings to make the most of their retirement years. “We can create extraordinary lives. We can take advantage of our extended lifespan to live deeply with fewer regrets. This book is a guide and resource to encourage this journey.”

First, I would change the title of The 60-Something Crisis. Pagano points out how the Boomer generation has much going for it. I suggest call it The 60-Something Handbook or as she writes, “reinvention event”? This is more positive than the ‘Crisis’ and is in line with the optimistic tone of her book.

Pagano has done the research and organizes well, but l didn’t find main points to easily sum up. At one point she asks, “how do we make the most of this time ahead?” (I noted, ‘so far, by not reading this book.’) After detailing why ‘finding one’s purpose’ is not helpful for many, she goes on about Finding Your Truth. ”Purpose and passion get you to the roundabout of happy life, but truth tells you where to turn on that roundabout.” I felt like I lost the map.

Pagano suggests that we let dreams go that don’t make sense and stay open to our own development. Paying attention to our wants is important. (Reviewer’s note, Pagano places a high value on ‘work’ and glosses over satisfaction from volunteering.) She asks what would give a BIG sense of accomplishment? (I respond, big can be overrated, it’s all about what’s important, loving and serving well.)

The value of friendships and family is pointed out, and “growing and maintaining a strong social network is the work to be done.” We need to make friendships a priority. She writes that we are role models and should have conversations with those who are closest to us about retirement choices.

What identities do you miss from your past? What places have you been that you loved? Good reflection questions are a tool to help one sort out “The 60-Something Crisis.” Pagano includes extensive notes, resources, bibliography, and an index.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I was hopeful there would be something new in here to guide me as I am now 65. It is well-written, but seems to ignore anyone who isn't upper middle class. So... just not for me. Your mileage may vary.

The mail from medicare started a few months ago and what this all means can be daunting. This was a practical and well written compilation of helpful hints, comfort of similar thoughts etc. Thank you