Review of Enlightenment for the Things that Really Matter

[Daisy Lou]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Enlightenment for the Things that Really Matter" by Mark Gumbrell.]

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3 out of 5 stars

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Mark Gumbrell’s Enlightenment for the Things That Really Matter is a memoir interwoven with philosophical reflections. Through a series of personal anecdotes about his family, Gumbrell delves into profound personal philosophical musings. He bravely addresses contentious issues such as climate change and overpopulation head-on. His advocacy for simple living, vegetarianism, and minimalism shines through the narrative. He offers practical advice for escaping the ‘rat race’ by getting rid of “outer baggage.’ Grumbrell’s commitment to empathy and lovingkindness, inspired by Buddhist philosophy and existential reflection, adds depth to his exploration of what truly matters.

The inclusion of family photos lends authenticity to his story, while moments of humor provide levity amidst the weighty topics discussed. I laughed out loud several times. Gumbrell’s wit shines through anecdotes like when his mother came home drunk, passed out, and caused their intelligent dog to worry all night. His musings on the possibility that aliens created the Earth are also humorous.

However, the book has its challenges. Formatting quirks detract from its professional appeal, and frequent grammar errors and unsubstantiated claims diminish the reading experience. Despite these shortcomings, Enlightenment for the Things That Really Matter offers thought-provoking insights into existence, knowledge, morality, and reality. It might be helpful for the author to consider redesigning the cover to better reflect the essence of the book and capture the attention of the audience.

This non-fiction family chronicle may appeal to readers interested in philosophical inquiry and existential exploration. Gumbrell’s book engages with the teachings of prominent thinkers like Shelly Kagan, Darwin, the Dalai Lama, and Robert Nozick. Formatting issues, unsubstantiated claims, and grammatical errors warrant a deduction of two stars. The richness of Gumbrell’s reflections earns Enlightenment for the Things That Really Matter a solid three out of five stars.

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Enlightenment for the Things that Really Matter
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