

Yes a lot of the stereotypes are true and are brave, but it all seems a little glib and boastful.

If based on mindfulness, I've listened to far better CBT/ mindfulness based books. No ending, but the model though based on CBT is interesting, but seems to get twisted for an American audience. What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!) He talks about shame, but manages to shame many readers with the 'normality' of their lives that are nothing like his consulting room in Santa Fe! Frustrating generalisations about gay life, no discussion on gender aspects, differences, diversity and though interesting and some good theory, just too insipid and American at times! For a British audience and worldwide audience and for many in America, the assumption of the 'prevalence' of the Pink Pound and snobbery is hard to bear at points.

The demographic Alan Downs celebrates throughout his pages, are very rich A list gay men. What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you? Interesting BUT very flawed in presumptuousness This is the reason why I wouldn't recommend this book to any one who seeks help or reassurance in his persona as a gay person. For someone who is OPENLY GAY and has social standing and hasn't hang-ups on his sexuality or suffers depressions, THIS BOOK IS INFURIATING!!! Would I recommend this book- NO Why: The topic of this book is fascinating - and people who suffer the symptoms which the author describes need reassurance and not "pulling-down". The author uses the word SHAME more less in every other sentence - sometimes twice within one sentence! All your life, all your decisions all your doings are based on SHAME Some of the stories are rather fascinating and interesting, and in many stories of clients of the author one can find oneself - and listens fascinated BUT what puts me off is the fact that it is always interpreted with SHAME.

I bought this book as it sounded interesting and was recommended BUT I am very disappointed !!! The author reads (performance) the book in a dreary voice - and it puts you asleep BUT what annoyed me most - and this Is my personal opinion!!!! - I object that one is told that all your life is based on SHAME.
