In My Own Way: An Autobiography

by Alan Watts
In My Own Way: An Autobiography cover
Good Books rating 3.88
Technical
  • ID: 5602
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
Reddit - AlanWatts · Reddit User · 2025-10-24
critical 2.00

This book turned the reviewer off Alan Watts, leading them to reconsider their admiration for him. It's a critical perspective that highlights some of the reviewer's disappointments with Watts's personal life and philosophies.

The reviewer found this autobiography to be a turning point in their admiration for Alan Watts. They express that reading the book led them to reevaluate their fandom and resulted in a diminished appreciation for Watts. The reviewer's critical perspective highlights some of the disappointments and reservations they have about Watts's personal life and philosophies, making it a more nuanced and critical read.

Quick quotes

    This book actually turned me off Alan Watts a tad.

    It was after reading this that I decided I wasn't as big a fan of this man as I thought I was.

    I found his personal life and some of his philosophies to be less inspiring than I had hoped.

Inquiring Mind · 2025-10-24
delightful 4.50

The book is charming, delightful, and mordantly witty, offering a clear and engaging portrayal of Watts's life. It's not a comprehensive biography but a delightful read for those interested in his personal journey.

This autobiography is a charming and delightful read, filled with mordant wit and clear insights into Alan Watts's life. The reviewer notes that while it may not provide a full rendering of Watts's life, it's a delightful and engaging account that captures his unique personality and philosophical evolution. The book is praised for its warmth, humor, and beautiful writing, making it a compelling read for those interested in Watts's personal journey and the development of his ideas.

Quick quotes

    The book is charming, delightful, mordantly witty, utterly clear.

    If you need a full rendering of Watts's life, consult other sources, but read his autobiography for a delightful and engaging account.

    Watts's autobiography is a warm, funny, and beautifully written story of a compelling figure.

goodreads.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
inspiring 4.50

Rich Roll has rewritten his memoir 'Finding Ultra' to include new material and address criticisms. The updated version is more comprehensive, with additional tools, practices, and strategies for personal transformation. The book is not just about running or athletics but about self-actualization and living a meaningful life.

Rich Roll's original memoir, 'Finding Ultra,' has been a source of inspiration for many, chronicling his journey from addiction and middle-age malaise to athletic prowess. However, Roll felt the book was incomplete and decided to rewrite it, adding 30-40% new material, a new foreword, and a prescriptive chapter with tools and strategies for personal transformation. The updated edition also includes a chronicling of his journey from 2012 to the present, a robust recipe section, and updated resource appendices. Roll addressed consistent themes of negative criticism from Amazon reviews and aimed to make the book more relatable to a broader audience. The book is not just about running or athletics but about self-actualization and living a meaningful life. Roll hopes that the revised edition will resonate with readers and help them discover their personal truth and potential.

Quick quotes

    The only permission you need to dream, to explore your potential, and dare I say do what you love is from yourself.

    So I decided to rewrite it.

    It’s finally the book I always wanted it to be — dedicated entirely to your future best, most authentic self.

booktopia.com.au · Unknown · 2025-10-24
insightful 4.50

In My Own Way is a deeply personal and introspective autobiography by Alan Watts, offering a unique perspective on his life and philosophical journey. The book is praised for its honesty and insight, providing a window into the mind of a remarkable thinker.

In My Own Way is a deeply personal and introspective autobiography by Alan Watts, offering a unique perspective on his life and philosophical journey. The book is praised for its honesty and insight, providing a window into the mind of a remarkable thinker. Watts' writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, making it a compelling read for those interested in philosophy and personal growth. The book is not just a chronological account of his life but a deep dive into his thoughts and experiences that shaped his worldview. It's a must-read for anyone looking to understand the man behind the philosophy.

Quick quotes

    Alan Watts' autobiography is a profound exploration of his life and thoughts.

    His writing is both insightful and engaging, making it a compelling read.

    The book offers a unique perspective on his philosophical journey.

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