Title: The Character Route Tree: A Memoir, A Method, a Mastery of Obsessive Character Development
Author: Marc R. Schneider
Publisher: Giddoff Press
ISBN: 979-8218776916
Pages: 760
Genre: Memoirs / Self-Help / Compulsive Behavior
Reviewer: Christina Avina
Pacific Book Review
While there are many differences and unique aspects of a person’s personality which make them unique, one thing that really becomes a central core to every single person is their character. The things which define their character may change, but everyone has those clearly defined aspects that test their character and show the world who they are. Learning to hone the skills needed to succeed in life and defining what those skills are is a testament to the type of character a person has.
Character is the driving force behind author Marc R. Schneider’s The Character Route Tree: A Memoir, A Method, A Mastery of Obsessive Character Development. The book is equal parts memoir storytelling and character development, showcasing the author’s life experiences and the obstacles he overcame to learn the lessons that define the framework of what he calls “The Playbook.” The book also explores ways of implementing the lessons found in The Playbook and gives readers the chance to implement these tools into their daily lives.
A grounded and unique blend of non-fiction narrative memoir and motivational work, the author expertly brings together readers for a lengthy yet informative read. The balance in the memoir of the author’s life with the more comprehensive and detailed 9-part playbook that is developed in the section of the book titled “Method” is perfectly laid out, and the honesty and reflective style of writing the author utilizes in the book is a great way of drawing readers into the author’s life and emphasizing the physical, mental, and emotional weight of those events that came to define the author’s experiences. The detailed writing also gave me a clear image of these events and allowed me to feel the depth of those moments in a way which made the lessons that came later feel more impactful and relatable.
Readers who enjoy non-fiction books, especially those that delve into memoir style storytelling and inspirational style guidance will absolutely love this book. The personal nature of these events in the author’s life, from a struggle with OCD to the vulnerability of mental health struggles and much more, allowed me to connect to the author’s story deeply. The creative use of sports terminology and experience allowed me to connect to the lessons and experiences of the author while also implementing them into my own life with little effort, and the workbook and terms or glossary section also make for a great reference point so readers can return to this book time and time again.
