Is Falling Upward Worth Reading?

2026-03-15 19:05:28
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5 Answers

Uma
Uma
Favorite read: Falling for her soul
Plot Detective Accountant
Honestly, I hesitated at first because spiritual books can be hit or miss for me. But 'Falling Upward' surprised me with its practicality. Rohr doesn’t preach; he shares stories—from saints to everyday people—that illustrate how stumbling is part of rising. I underlined half the book! It’s especially refreshing if you’re tired of toxic positivity. The chapter on ‘shadow work’ alone is worth the price. A friend and I still reference it in our late-night chats about life’s messy beauty.
2026-03-16 13:49:03
26
Isla
Isla
Favorite read: Crimson Bloomed: Ascend
Book Scout Teacher
I’d describe 'Falling Upward' as a cozy blanket for the soul—soft but with enough weight to keep you grounded. Rohr’s perspective on the second half of life isn’t about aging gracefully but about growing boldly. I gifted it to three friends after reading, and we all found different takeaways. One loved the emphasis on letting go; another clung to the idea of ‘useful suffering.’ It’s the kind of book that meets you where you are.
2026-03-17 08:50:17
10
Yaretzi
Yaretzi
Favorite read: Kiss Of A Fallen Star
Library Roamer Analyst
'Falling Upward' was a breath of fresh air. It’s less about fixing yourself and more about surrendering to the journey. Rohr’s blend of psychology, theology, and personal anecdotes creates this mosaic of wisdom that feels both ancient and timely. I read it during a career slump, and it helped me reframe my ‘failures’ as stepping stones. The prose isn’t poetic, but it’s sincere—like talking to a wise uncle who’s been through the wringer. Pair it with a journal; you’ll want to scribble notes in the margins.
2026-03-18 20:14:41
10
Ending Guesser Teacher
If you’re into books that make you pause and rethink everything, 'Falling Upward' is a solid choice. Rohr’s ideas about embracing failure as part of growth hit differently when you’re in your 30s and feel like you’re constantly ‘falling behind.’ It’s not a step-by-step guide but more like a philosophical pep talk. I dog-eared so many pages—especially where he talks about how our greatest wounds often become our greatest teachers. The writing’s warm, almost conversational, which makes the heavy themes easier to digest. Bonus: it’s short enough to read in a weekend but deep enough to spark months of reflection.
2026-03-20 08:02:36
29
David
David
Favorite read: Falling, Fallen.
Ending Guesser Lawyer
I picked up 'Falling Upward' on a whim after seeing it recommended in a book club, and wow, it really stuck with me. Richard Rohr’s take on the 'two halves of life' isn’t just theoretical—it feels like a gentle nudge to reflect on my own journey. The way he frames failure and growth as essential to spiritual maturity was eye-opening, especially for someone like me who’s always chasing perfection. It’s not a flashy read, but the quiet wisdom lingers. I found myself revisiting chapters months later, noticing how my perspective had shifted.

What I love is how accessible it feels, even if you’re not deeply religious. The stories and metaphors—like the ‘necessary suffering’ of the second half—resonate universally. If you’re at a crossroads or just curious about life’s deeper questions, this book offers a comforting yet challenging companion. It’s one of those rare reads that grows with you.
2026-03-21 21:30:13
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5 Answers2026-03-15 19:20:34
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Falling Upward by Richard Rohr is one of those books that either clicks with you or doesn't, and I think that's why the reviews are all over the place. For me, it was a transformative read—it challenged my ideas about success, spirituality, and aging in ways I didn't expect. Rohr's framework of the 'two halves of life' resonated deeply, especially his take on how failure and suffering can actually lead to growth. But I totally get why some folks bounce off it. His writing leans heavily into Christian mysticism, and if that's not your background, some passages might feel abstract or even preachy. What’s interesting is how polarizing the tone is. Some readers find it gentle and wise, while others think it’s repetitive or too vague. I adored the poetic style, but a friend of mine—who’s more into structured self-help—dismissed it as 'fluffy.' It’s also a book that demands patience; it’s less about quick fixes and more about slow, inward reflection. If you’re looking for concrete steps, you’ll probably leave disappointed. But if you’re open to meandering philosophical musings, it might just change your life like it did mine.

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