Why We Fall: Why Pain and Suffering Are Our Greatest Teachers

by

Daniel Martinez

Heartfelt and authentic.

Why We Fall: Why Pain and Suffering Are Our Greatest Teachers by Daniel Martinez is categorized as a self-help book, but it is really more than that. It is a well-written memoir in which the author reveals his personal journey as an example of pitfalls to avoid and practices that worked for him to come out on the positive side of life. Whether you agree or disagree with his conclusions, his story is compelling and well worth the time. 

A big reason I found Why We Fall to be so captivating was his easy-to-read writing style and engaging narrative voice. His delivery is personable and authentic, and I felt I was part of a private conversation with him. 

Daniel Martinez is a remarkably self-aware young man and begins his story with his early childhood. He sounds like he was such an active and precocious boy; I couldn’t help smiling (or gasping!) over some of the things he did (and lived through!) He has his share of growing pains as he ages like everyone does, but he accompanies his story with some pretty amazing introspection, some of which occurred at pretty young ages. His descriptions of his awareness and moments of clarity are relatable, and he segues into the changes he underwent as a result. He fell, evaluated, improved, tried again, made progress, fell again, and continued to carry on. Often, he had the help of adults, such as his father and, later, professional guidance, to gain perspective, but the author was ultimately responsible for the heavy lifting. Spirituality played a critical role in his life, and the author devotes a specific chapter to this very aspect later in the book. 

I recommend WHY WE FALL to readers of self-help books and memoirs. 

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy through RABT Book Tours and PR.