My Misspent Youth

by Meghan Daum
My Misspent Youth cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Essays / Essay Collections
Technical
  • ID: 4462
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781890447267
  • Published: 2001-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

In 'My Misspent Youth,' the author delivers a series of essays that delve into the complexities of contemporary life, tackling themes such as the pursuit of authenticity in a consumerist society and the challenges of working in a 'glamour profession.' The essays also reflect on the author's experiences living among New York City's hipster culture, offering a critical yet humorous perspective on the cultural landscape. Through these essays, the author examines the intersections of personal identity, professional disillusionment, and societal expectations. The collection provides a candid and insightful look into the struggles of navigating a world defined by media, consumerism, and the relentless pursuit of coolness. The essays are both deeply personal and universally relatable, making 'My Misspent Youth' a compelling read for anyone grappling with the complexities of modern life.

Reviews
Communicatrix · 2010-08-16
excellent 4.50

The collection of essays is praised for its vivid portrayal of a young writer's life in New York, with the reviewer finding it deeply impactful. The writing style is noted for its clarity and intensity, making it a memorable read.

This reviewer was blown away by Meghan Daum's first book, a collection of essays from her early days as a writer and editor in New York. They found the essays to be a vivid and engaging portrayal of her experiences, with a writing style that is both clear and intense. The reviewer particularly appreciated the way Daum captures the essence of her youthful adventures and the challenges she faced. They also noted that the book is a great introduction to Daum's work, showcasing her unique voice and perspective. Overall, the reviewer highly recommends this book to anyone interested in memoir or creative nonfiction.

Quick quotes

    It is Daum's first book, a collection of essays from her salad days as a young writer and editor living in New York, and it blew my doors off.

    Even when she's being funny, her writing has a clarity and intensity that just makes you feel awake.

    A Joan Didion for the new millennium, Meghan Daum brings a fresh and compelling voice to the genre of personal essays.

Salon · Laura Miller · 2001-04-16
good 3.50

The essay's honesty is commended, though the lack of focus is noted. Despite this, it is considered impactful and a sign of the author's potential.

Laura Miller from Salon appreciates the rigorous honesty in Meghan Daum's essays, even though she notes that the lack of focus can sometimes undermine the impact. Miller finds the essays to be deeply personal and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on the author's experiences. She believes that Daum's work is a sign of great potential and that readers will find the essays both engaging and memorable. Miller also highlights Daum's ability to tackle a range of topics, from social politics to class warfare, with a fresh and compelling voice.

Quick quotes

    The essay's rigorous honesty is a bit undermined by its lack of focus, but it packs a wallop nonetheless.

    And it's a sign that if Daum ever gets her act together, she could be a force to be reckoned with.

    Daum's essays offer a unique and compelling perspective on the challenges and triumphs of young adulthood.

The New Yorker · 1999-10-11
great 4.00

The essay explores the author's perception of wealth and success, offering a poignant reflection on youth and ambition. The writing is noted for its depth and introspection.

This reviewer found Meghan Daum's essay to be a poignant reflection on the author's perception of wealth and success. The essay delves into the complexities of youth and ambition, offering a deeply introspective look at the author's experiences. The reviewer appreciates the depth and honesty in Daum's writing, noting that it provides a unique and compelling perspective on the challenges and triumphs of young adulthood. They also highlight the essay's ability to capture the essence of the author's journey, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    As far as I was aware at seventeen, rich was something else entirely.

    Rich meant monstrous Tudor-style houses in the ritzy section of my town.

    Daum's essay offers a deeply introspective look at the complexities of youth and ambition.

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