Paint it Black was unexpectedly thoughtful and intriguing. The author emphasized exercises that focus on problem solving and decision making. Due to its context, I think this book falls somewhere between Personal and Professional Development, which is perfect (Kill two birds with one stone, right?). The book is laid out in the form of different stories that each illustrate different challenges in our lives. For example, my favorite story, "Where to live" follows a person who is in the midst of deciding where to live. But the decision is more problematic than originally thought because each place the person could move to is drastically different than the last. To me this story says something about how moving to a different place, even in your current state, can change your life forever. But the story ultimately goes deeper than that. I guess, you have to read the book yourself because the author wants you to participate in a self-reflection exercise that I just can't explain in my own words.

Overall, this book is not a feel-good type of book, although it sure helped me feel better. It is analytical, self-reflection book, presented in a very appealing format with excellent writing.

Review by Vlad Vagner

Paint It Black by Rom Werran Gayoso gives a rather strange yet interesting mix of Rock ‘n Roll and problem solving tools that could help sort out different life problems – from the mundane to life-changing events. Of course, Rock ‘n Roll can pretty much solve anything, but this book is much more than a clever subtitle. It’s a self-help tool that lets readers make sense of the “unknowns” in life. It’s pretty deep when you think about it and It may seem like an abstract concept, but it’s essentially an exercise to encourage critical thinking in very challenging situations.

The author offers seven stories, each with its different set of challenges. What’s great about these stories is that they offer “what if” scenarios that pretty much get our brains working. The anecdotes may be amusing at times, but they unearth conflicts, both internal and external, which can be quite difficult to resolve. This book emphasizes the importance of having the right tools to cope with seemingly insurmountable problems. Some of these tools are skills that we already have but do not realize or have no idea how to use them properly.

Paint It Black shows us that we have options and choices whenever we’re faced with problems. Sometimes we fail to see them because dire situations make us feel hopeless and weary. This book can help us develop the skills and problem solving techniques to see our options better and help solve life’s problems, big or small. Yes, pretty much like Rock ‘n Roll.

eBook, Pbk, HC