ARA Review by Lovelyn Chinwike 1 of In It Together
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Lovelyn Chinwike 1
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ARA Review by Lovelyn Chinwike 1 of In It Together
[Following is an OnlineBookClub.org ARA Review of the book, In It Together.]
OVERVIEW AND CORE THEMES
*In It Together* by Eckhart Aurelius Hughes is a philosophical self-help book that blends spirituality, unity, and personal growth into a narrative centered on the idea that humanity is inherently connected. The book argues that self-discipline and spiritual freedom are synonymous, positing that true liberation comes from mastering one’s inner self rather than external circumstances . Hughes uses a conversational tone, peppered with humor and quotes from diverse thinkers like Einstein, Socrates, and Eckhart Tolle, to explore themes such as conscious love, the duality of the self (the "real you" vs. the "primitive self"), and the transformative power of acceptance .
STRENGTHS
1. Accessible Philosophy: Hughes excels at simplifying complex metaphysical ideas. For instance, he likens the soul’s separation from the body to Humpty Dumpty’s indestructible essence beyond his broken shell—a metaphor that resonates with readers seeking non-religious spirituality . His assertion that “true love is being happy to sacrifice” reframes altruism as a path to inner peace, a concept praised for its poetic clarity .
2. Inclusive Message: The book avoids dogma, appealing to readers across religious and cultural spectrums. By emphasizing universal truths—such as the interconnectedness of all people—it fosters a sense of shared humanity .
3. Inspirational Tone: Many reviewers found the book motivating, particularly its emphasis on kindness, self-acceptance, and the beauty of imperfection. The author’s encouragement to “speak kind, honest words to yourself” struck a chord with those seeking emotional healing .
CRITICISMS
1. Repetitive Structure: Several readers noted redundancy in themes, with concepts like “unity” and “self-discipline” reiterated excessively. While this reinforces key ideas, it risks diluting their impact over 224 pages .
2. Surface-Level Advice: Critics argue that the book relies heavily on platitudes (e.g., “just love everyone”) without addressing systemic issues like socioeconomic inequality. One reviewer compared it to a “TED Talk without depth,” dismissing its solutions as overly simplistic .
3. Mixed Tone: The blend of humor and philosophy polarized readers. Some appreciated the lighthearted approach, while others felt it undermined the gravity of topics like global suffering, likening the author to a “high college party philosopher” .
CONCLUSION
/In It Together/ is a polarizing read. For those seeking an uplifting, accessible entry into spiritual philosophy, it offers valuable insights on unity and self-mastery. However, readers craving depth or actionable advice may find it lacking. If you enjoy quotes-driven narratives with a motivational bent, this book could inspire reflection—but approach with tempered expectations.
VERDICT: A 3.5/5. Recommended for fans of Eckhart Tolle or *The Alchemist*, but critical thinkers might prefer more substantiated works
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View In It Together on Bookshelves
OVERVIEW AND CORE THEMES
*In It Together* by Eckhart Aurelius Hughes is a philosophical self-help book that blends spirituality, unity, and personal growth into a narrative centered on the idea that humanity is inherently connected. The book argues that self-discipline and spiritual freedom are synonymous, positing that true liberation comes from mastering one’s inner self rather than external circumstances . Hughes uses a conversational tone, peppered with humor and quotes from diverse thinkers like Einstein, Socrates, and Eckhart Tolle, to explore themes such as conscious love, the duality of the self (the "real you" vs. the "primitive self"), and the transformative power of acceptance .
STRENGTHS
1. Accessible Philosophy: Hughes excels at simplifying complex metaphysical ideas. For instance, he likens the soul’s separation from the body to Humpty Dumpty’s indestructible essence beyond his broken shell—a metaphor that resonates with readers seeking non-religious spirituality . His assertion that “true love is being happy to sacrifice” reframes altruism as a path to inner peace, a concept praised for its poetic clarity .
2. Inclusive Message: The book avoids dogma, appealing to readers across religious and cultural spectrums. By emphasizing universal truths—such as the interconnectedness of all people—it fosters a sense of shared humanity .
3. Inspirational Tone: Many reviewers found the book motivating, particularly its emphasis on kindness, self-acceptance, and the beauty of imperfection. The author’s encouragement to “speak kind, honest words to yourself” struck a chord with those seeking emotional healing .
CRITICISMS
1. Repetitive Structure: Several readers noted redundancy in themes, with concepts like “unity” and “self-discipline” reiterated excessively. While this reinforces key ideas, it risks diluting their impact over 224 pages .
2. Surface-Level Advice: Critics argue that the book relies heavily on platitudes (e.g., “just love everyone”) without addressing systemic issues like socioeconomic inequality. One reviewer compared it to a “TED Talk without depth,” dismissing its solutions as overly simplistic .
3. Mixed Tone: The blend of humor and philosophy polarized readers. Some appreciated the lighthearted approach, while others felt it undermined the gravity of topics like global suffering, likening the author to a “high college party philosopher” .
CONCLUSION
/In It Together/ is a polarizing read. For those seeking an uplifting, accessible entry into spiritual philosophy, it offers valuable insights on unity and self-mastery. However, readers craving depth or actionable advice may find it lacking. If you enjoy quotes-driven narratives with a motivational bent, this book could inspire reflection—but approach with tempered expectations.
VERDICT: A 3.5/5. Recommended for fans of Eckhart Tolle or *The Alchemist*, but critical thinkers might prefer more substantiated works
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View In It Together on Bookshelves
