Review: Very Interesting Book on Using the Number 40 for Personal Happiness and Growth
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 05 15, 2013
While I'd have a bit of trouble categorizing "Formula Forty Days and Forty Nights" into a genre, I can say it's an interesting read--part history, part self-help, and part cultural study.The author begins by a light discussion of the number 40 and its function as a portal to release wisdom and move toward fulfillment. Before the text goes into how to use the number 40 to improve one's life, it extensively and convincingly covers the historical and mythical significance of the number--in the Bible, in Islam, in ancient cultures, and in modern-day life. (For instance, Jesus fasted in the wilderness for forty days, was presented to the temple forty days after his birth, and taught for 40 months before his crucifixion).Then, the book segues into how the number pertains to sociology, culture, and science, and introduces on the 4 Rs of Rejuvenation--Resist, Replace, Record, and Refresh (each of which has ten steps). The author also gives very thoughtful treatment to how reaching the age of 40 should be not a time of dread and aging, but a time of growth, maturity, and happiness.Even if you're not looking for self-help tips, this book would be an interesting read just for its history and treatment of the number 40. If you are looking to deal with aging or just moving toward a more peaceful and fulfilling life, it is also a thorough guide with extensive tips on how to do so using the 4Rs.