Review of A Jerk's Guide to Happiness

Post by **Alys Sterk** » 04 Jul 2022, 11:00

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Jerk's Guide to Happiness" by Alyn Mitlyng.]

4 out of 4 stars

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In A Jerk’s Guide to Happiness: Practical Ways to Change While Still Being You, author Alyn Mitlyng recounts her personal experiences in her journey to being in a better place and living a life that she loves. She encourages readers to have more positive interactions with others and gives advice on how to control and curb what she describes as “jerk behaviors.” A handy list invites readers to rate their own behavior and determine if they display jerk behavior. Included in this list are behaviors, such as being short with other people, discrediting those who don’t share your beliefs, and making sure others are blamed when things go wrong. Are you envious when others succeed? Do you play the victim or refuse to forgive others for their mistakes? If so, you may have jerk tendencies, and this book is for you!

I chose this book because of its somewhat comical title and the life lessons that it advertises. While reading the 120-page book, I was amused and enlightened at the same time. “Anyone willing to admit they have a problem with being a jerk should be extremely proud of themselves.” The tone of the author is not condescending or arrogant, but rather compassionate and supportive.

The best part of this book is the practical advice the author gives that is supported by relevant real-life examples and applications. I especially enjoyed the author’s insightful thoughts about passive-aggressive attitudes and gossiping. Ms. Mitlyng argues that passive-aggressive people are experts at using context to shield themselves from the judgment of others so that their words do not appear as abrasive. She explains that our intentions are “like a dagger on the tail of our actions, body language, and tone.” This is so true and eloquently yet bluntly stated. Many of the descriptions of jerks the author gives sound sadly familiar.

Although the book gives helpful and insightful pointers on improving behavior, I found it slightly repetitive. The lessons are enlightening but not profound. Having said this, though, the messages in the book resonated with me long after I had finished reading it. I found myself following the author’s poignant advice in the following days, and I can say this has truly made a difference in my attitude at work. For this reason, I give this book 4 out of 4 stars; the book's purpose and the author’s insight clearly outweigh the minor negative points mentioned above. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and believe it will serve many people well.

I recommend this writing to people who enjoy self-help books and those who revel in books that solicit personal reflection. Anyone with an open mind who seeks to improve their relationship with others will benefit from this piece.

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A Jerk's Guide to Happiness
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Paully_ · Post by **Paully_** » 08 Jul 2022, 13:25

An enlightening book. The name of the book is funny. Thanks for the review.

Ada Chris · Post by **Ada Chris** » 08 Jul 2022, 14:47

Great review! It’s an enlightening book on how to treat people around us, this book is a must read for me, I really like the work of the author. Nice job on the review.

Sopulu Ezidimma · Post by **Sopulu Ezidimma** » 08 Jul 2022, 16:05

A practical way to change while still being you, interesting. Great review.

Prosper2000 · Post by **Prosper2000** » 08 Jul 2022, 23:16

Books that share practical insights are so much more preferable. Great review.

Not available anymore · Post by **Not available anymore** » 09 Jul 2022, 04:44

Just from the review I can tell it's an amazing book and I would like to read to see 8f I am a jerk or not

Kavita Shah · Post by **Kavita Shah** » 09 Jul 2022, 14:26

I am intrigued by the title which I find quite similar to "For Dummies ".Thank you for a great and insightful review!

Nwankwo GC · Post by **Nwankwo GC** » 10 Jul 2022, 02:29

This seems like it'll be an intriguing read. I've always had a different definition of 'jerk' but I would love to know what the author thinks. This is a brilliant review.

Post by **Alys Sterk** » 10 Jul 2022, 12:56

Great comparison! Thanks for stopping by!

Kavita Shah wrote: ↑09 Jul 2022, 14:26 I am intrigued by the title which I find quite similar to "For Dummies ".Thank you for a great and insightful review!

Post by **Alys Sterk** » 10 Jul 2022, 12:57

You probably are. I didn't think I was, but apparently I am. The author isn't condescending, though, but very insightful.

Covenant M Olusegun wrote: ↑09 Jul 2022, 04:44 Just from the review I can tell it's an amazing book and I would like to read to see 8f I am a jerk or not

Lawrence+2 · Post by **Lawrence+2** » 10 Jul 2022, 13:47

Happiness can actually be achieved if we apply the right techniques. I believe this book could help those who will follow all the guideline.

MsH2k · Post by **MsH2k** » 10 Jul 2022, 19:43

This is certainly a catchy title. I'm glad to see that the author doesn't condone remaining a jerk while attaining happiness. I am sure I have jerk tendencies

--I may consider checking out the author's handy list and advice.
Thank you for your recommendation.

Madu Abigail · Post by **Madu Abigail** » 11 Jul 2022, 07:14

From my experience, I can tell that this book is going to be very interesting. I would definitely get this book in my shelf. Thanks for this wonderful review.