In My Own Way

by Alan Watts
In My Own Way cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Biography and Memoir
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Waterstones
Paperback • £19.99
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Technical
  • ID: 1700
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • ISBN: 9781577315841
  • Publisher: New World Library
  • Published: 2007-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In My Own Way is a deeply personal memoir by a renowned figure in the arts, offering readers an intimate look at the creative process and the challenges faced along the way. Originally published in 1972, this book provides a unique perspective on the intersection of art and life, blending personal anecdotes with insights into the creative journey. Through honest and reflective storytelling, the author shares the highs and lows of their career, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the making of their most famous works. This memoir is not just a chronicle of artistic achievement but also a testament to the resilience and determination required to pursue one's passion.

Reviews
The Coffeelicious · 2025-10-08
thought-provoking 3.50

The book leaves you wanting more while also being glad it's over. It's a fine read that captures Watts' unique perspective.

The reviewer from The Coffeelicious describes Alan Watts' autobiography as a book that leaves you wanting more while also being glad it's over. This duality highlights the book's ability to captivate and satisfy readers simultaneously. The reviewer appreciates Watts' unique perspective and the way he presents his life story, making it a fine read. The book's ability to evoke such contrasting feelings is a testament to its depth and the reviewer's engagement with Watts' journey.

Quick quotes

    Alan Watts's autobiography 'In My Own Way' was one of those fine books which leaves you wanting more, and also happy it's over.

    It captures Watts' unique perspective.

    The book's ability to evoke such contrasting feelings.

David Michie Substack · David Michie · 2025-07-26
inspiring 4.50

The book evokes a deep sense of gratitude for Watts' perceptive and rebellious spirit. The reading experience is both entertaining and enlightening.

David Michie's review of Alan Watts' autobiography is filled with a profound sense of gratitude. He appreciates Watts' unique perspective and rebellious nature, which makes the book both entertaining and thought-provoking. Michie highlights how Watts' insights are both perceptive and deeply personal, offering readers a glimpse into the mind of a remarkable thinker. The book is not just an autobiography but a journey through Watts' spiritual and philosophical evolution, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in his work.

Quick quotes

    In reading it, I often felt flooded with gratitude.

    Gratitude for the work of this perceptive, rebellious and entertaining author.

    And gratitude for the way he challenges conventional thinking.

Thought Waves · 2023-06-30
engaging 4.00

The book is non-linear and full of digressions, offering a unique reading experience. The insights are profound but not straightforward.

The reviewer from Thought Waves finds Alan Watts' autobiography to be a non-linear and digressive narrative, which adds to its uniqueness. They appreciate the depth of insights but note that the book does not follow a straightforward path. This style makes the reading experience more engaging and thought-provoking, as it encourages readers to reflect on Watts' journey in a more contemplative manner. The reviewer highlights that the book's structure is part of its charm, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    I definitely got these, but not in the straightforward manner I was expecting.

    The book is non-linear with many digressions and commentaries.

    It offers a unique reading experience.

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