The core concept covered by this book was very intriguing and thought-provoking, but everything about the approach was awkward and absurd. Remainder provides quite a compelling analysis on the idea of authenticity: what qualifies and experience or feeling to be authentic, the inherent significance of authenticity, and the frustration of when that sense of authenticity is lacking. Though the philosophical aspects of the book was sound, the elements upon which it was delivered were plain bad.

The main character to me was incredibly solipsistic. I get that on a certain level his disregard for those around him is intentional, but the extent of his attitude gets to a point where it is completely unrealistic. The only way that what unfolded in this book could happen is that if it was in a universe where the purpose of everything really did stem from the main character's existence.

Other than that, I just really was not a fan of all the re-enactments. I do admit I enjoyed how the final re-enactment played out and helped deliver that message of authenticity, but the lead up was dull to read through.

I enjoyed the message the book attempted to make, but just found the majority of the book ridiculous. In the end I am just glad that I at least got something out of it, because until the last 50 or so pages I had resigned myself to not having anything redeeming to say. Overall the book itself was not good, but it at least provided some sort of value in the end.