YOU are NOT so SMART vs. Barbarian Days by William Finnegan
YOU are NOT so SMART
Finally realize why I'm such dumb *ss
Barbarian Days by William Finnegan
Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life is William Finnegan’s story about growing up obsessed with surfing. It’s not just about catching waves—it’s about a whole way of life that’s demanding, addictive, and sometimes dangerous. Finnegan started young, learning to surf in California and Hawaii, and kept chasing waves into adulthood, traveling through places like Fiji, Australia, Indonesia, and Africa. Along the way, he mixes adventure with self-reflection, talking about friendships formed in the water, the culture around surfing, and how it all fit with the times—especially during the social changes of the 1960s and '70s. The book isn’t just about the thrill of surfing; Finnegan dives into the technical side of waves and the patience it takes to master them. He’s honest about his youthful recklessness—like taking LSD before surfing a massive wave in Maui—and the risks that came with his travels, from malaria scares to navigating shady markets. Still, surfing pulls him along, even when he’s jugg...

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Reviewed on 2/25/2025
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Frequently Asked Questions
'YOU are NOT so SMART' focuses on cognitive biases and the psychology behind why we often think irrationally, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in psychology and self-awareness. In contrast, 'Barbarian Days' is an autobiographical account of surfing and the author's experiences, appealing to readers who enjoy memoirs and adventure stories. The choice between the two depends on whether you prefer psychological insights or personal narratives about surfing.
'Barbarian Days' is likely to offer a more engaging storytelling experience as it is a narrative-driven autobiography that captures the thrill of surfing and the author's life journey. On the other hand, 'YOU are NOT so SMART' presents information in a more analytical format, which may be less engaging for readers looking for a narrative flow. If you prefer immersive storytelling, 'Barbarian Days' may be the better choice.
'YOU are NOT so SMART' is specifically tailored for readers interested in psychology, as it delves into cognitive biases and human behavior. In contrast, 'Barbarian Days' focuses on the author's experiences with surfing and may not provide the same level of psychological insight. Therefore, if psychology is your primary interest, 'YOU are NOT so SMART' would be the more suitable choice.
'YOU are NOT so SMART' by David McRaney is a book that delves into the common misconceptions and cognitive biases that affect our everyday thinking. It explores why people often overestimate their intelligence and make irrational decisions.
David McRaney is an American journalist, author, and lecturer known for his work on the subject of cognitive psychology. He is best known for his book 'YOU are NOT so SMART' and its subsequent works, which explore the psychology behind human irrationality.
As of now, there are no user-generated pros and cons for 'YOU are NOT so SMART'. Generally, readers appreciate its insightful and humorous approach to cognitive psychology, while some may find its content repetitious or overly simplified.
'Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life' is a memoir by William Finnegan that chronicles his lifelong obsession with surfing. The book explores not only the thrill of catching waves but also the culture surrounding surfing, the friendships formed in the water, and the personal reflections that come with a life dedicated to this demanding and sometimes dangerous sport. Finnegan shares his experiences from California and Hawaii to Fiji, Australia, Indonesia, and Africa, blending adventure with introspection.
'Barbarian Days' delves into several themes, including the passion and addiction associated with surfing, the risks involved in pursuing this lifestyle, and the impact of social changes during the 1960s and '70s. Finnegan reflects on his youthful recklessness, the technical aspects of surfing, and the balance between his career as a war reporter and his love for the ocean.
William Finnegan's writing in 'Barbarian Days' is characterized by vivid descriptions and a reflective tone. He captures both the beauty and the challenges of surfing, making readers feel as if they are experiencing the adventures alongside him. His narrative combines storytelling with insightful observations about life, friendship, and the allure of the ocean.
While there are no specific pros and cons listed for 'Barbarian Days', readers often appreciate its engaging storytelling and deep exploration of surfing culture. Some may find the technical aspects of surfing and the author's personal reflections to be less appealing if they are not interested in the sport. Overall, it is celebrated for its literary quality and the way it captures the essence of a life spent chasing waves.