59 pages 1 hour read

Jay Allison, Dan Gediman

This I Believe: The Personal Philosophies of Remarkable Men and Women

Nonfiction | Essay Collection | Adult | Published in 2006

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

This I Believe, edited by Jay Allison and Dan Gediman, is a collection of eighty essays featuring personal beliefs and reflections from both famous and ordinary people, originally aired on the 1950s CBS radio program “This I Believe” by Edward R. Murrow and revived on NPR in 2005. The essays discuss the diverse convictions that guide people's lives, covering a wide range of topics. The book contains essays addressing death, illness, and trauma.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Reviews for Jay Allison's This I Believe highlight its powerful and diverse collection of personal essays, which inspire reflection and empathy. Readers praise the book for its heartfelt, relatable stories, though some critique its uneven quality and occasional lack of depth. Overall, it is seen as a moving, thought-provoking read that encourages self-exploration.

Who should read this

Who Should Read This I Believe?

Ideal for reflective introspectors and fans of personal essays, This I Believe by Jay Allison appeals to those who appreciate exploring diverse life philosophies. Comparable to The Art of the Personal Essay by Phillip Lopate, its readers are likely to enjoy authentic, heartfelt narratives on human beliefs and values.

RecommendedReading Age

14-18years

Book Details

Genre

Philosophy

Inspirational

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance

Society: Community

Values/Ideas: Equality