I read Start Making Sense (SMS) as a digital book and gave it 3 stars, thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for kindly giving me a digital copy. I went into SMS really excited, the blurb and premise of the book sounded really interesting and something that I would like. And while I did enjoy parts of the book and found out a lot of interesting things, I felt that some parts of the book were boring and quite repetitive. One thing I enjoyed was reading about the experiments and how the findings either supported or went against building meaningful lives and the different factors in which can help build a meaningful life. Overall it was an enjoyable read and I did take a few things away with me, however I think I would have liked it more if it was an audiobook and so might check the audiobook out (if there ever is one). Would I recommend this book to other people? Yes, I would, but it's definitely not a book for everyone.

This book is a very novel approach to understanding how we find meaning in our lives. By using existentialist thoughts, and focusing on experiments that highlight both the negative and the positive search for meaning the author is able to highlight the way in which we can develop as people. I appreciate the fact that well faith based development was mentioned it is actually not required as part of finding meaning in life. Overall, it was a well-developed and easy read and brought a new understanding to me of the ways in which we find meaning in the world.

Dynamite book! As a philosophy major, I admire how the author weaves autobiographical information about major existentialist thinkers with relevant research and plenty of provocative examples. As someone currently pondering an early retirement, I found this book helpful in learning many important principles. As an industrial/organizational psychologist, I am eager to help others think about the issues raised in the book as they consider the psychology of work, their career goals, and more.

Engaging and accessible. A recommended purchase for collections where self help and pop psych titles are popular.

First, I have to note that Start Making Sense is a thoroughly researched, cited, and executed book. The studies listed, organization of research, and academic rigor of the book are present throughout. That being said, it is the large amount of disparate research topics that seem to prevent the book from finding any identity until the final third of the book. As a reader, it is hard to determine the focus of the book as it seems to toe the line between a David Brooks style of storytelling and a Malcolm Gladwell style of counterintuitive presentations of social psychology research. These styles are then being interspersed with the philosophy at the core of the book. This seems to be something that could be cleaned up with some editing. This is not to say the book is not delivering on promises. I am writing this in the review with the hope this could be something addressed before a final release. The final third of the book comes together in exactly what I was looking for. The discussion of how existential psychology applies to daily life along with some accessible ways to engage this deep philosophy. As a therapist who has worked with existential approaches to therapy throughout my career I have a deep appreciation for the availability of meaning making and its curative effects. The final part of the book delivers on some of the pragmatic ways to access these effects. With some more editing and maybe some cohesion resultant of that editing I would give this book 4 stars rather than 3.

Also, some of the statements about teens getting to choose their gender nowadays read like politicized grievances in what is clearly trying to be an academic approach. Those statements have no place in a book like this in my opinion.

"Start Making Sense" is a brilliantly crafted book that offers readers a refreshing perspective on navigating the complexities of modern life. With a unique blend of wit and wisdom, the author delves into the core of human experience, shedding light on how we can find clarity amidst the chaos. The book's down-to-earth approach and practical advice make it an accessible guide for anyone seeking to make sense of their personal and professional lives. Each chapter is filled with relatable anecdotes and insightful reflections that resonate deeply with readers. The writing is engaging and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to reflect on their own experiences and perspectives. The author’s ability to simplify complex concepts and present them in an easily digestible manner is truly commendable. "Start Making Sense" stands out for its warmth and humor, making it not only informative but also enjoyable to read. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Overall, "Start Making Sense" is a valuable resource that inspires and empowers readers to live more intentional and meaningful lives.