2 out of 4 stars
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Followed my Star by AR Annahita is a non-fiction book that explores the author’s personal philosophy that she believes will bring about world peace. This book is the third installment in the Followed my Star series, but may be read separately from the first two. The author is an Iranian immigrant to America and works as a photographer, writer, and philosopher, and so offers a fresh perspective on American and global lifestyles and policies.
The book is divided into 19 chapters, between 1-4 pages each, that focus on different aspects of the author’s views. The chapters begin broad and begin to narrow into each topic, though a few chapters I had to reread to find the overarching theme. Overall, I thought that the chapters could have been more concise in conveying these themes as many of the ideas are repeated and reiterated through proceeding chapters without offering further elaboration.
Followed my Star tackles a range of issues large and small, from global policy issues to individual happiness (and unhappiness). The main theme of the book is finding balance. The author believes that the world will be a better place if balance is found in all areas: politically, religiously, financially, individually, etc. The topics include abortion, religion, greed, and the law of attraction, among others. Some readers may disagree with some of the author’s viewpoints, which at times lean liberal and criticize parts of the American Republican party and certain religious doctrines. In particular, the author criticizes unquestioningly believing what one is told, but still maintains the importance of individual thought and belief. I believe most readers will be able to come away with some new insight, however, as this is not a book intended to be read closed-mindedly.
The book is well edited. There are a few awkward sentences that may require rereading, but ultimately few errors. The sentences are sometimes clunky and repetitive, but this is not overly distracting.
Followed my Star may appeal to readers who are beginning a path to explore new philosophy. In my own opinion, I believe the claim that this book will guide you through self-exploration is overstated, however. The chapters outline the author’s philosophies, but this is not a self-help book. The book is more of an essay collection of personal viewpoints or like a personal journal rather than a solution to find the way out of chaos. Overall, I give Followed my Star 2 out of 4 stars.
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Followed my Star
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