Title: Greenlights
Author: Matthew McConaughey
First published October 20, 2020
308 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780593139134 (ISBN10: 0593139135)
Rating: 4.21
Overview
In his unconventional memoir, Matthew McConaughey shares raucous stories, outlaw wisdom, and lessons he’s learned the hard way about living a more satisfying life. For over thirty-five years, he’s been keeping diaries filled with notes on successes and failures, joys and sorrows, and everything in between.
In “Greenlights,” McConaughey shares his approach to dealing with life’s challenges and how to catch those elusive greenlights. With humor and honesty, he takes readers on a journey through fifty years of his unique experiences, offering insights on how to have less stress, hurt people less, and find meaning in life.
It’s a love letter and a guide to catching more greenlights, reminding us that even the yellows and reds eventually turn green too.
About the Author
Matthew McConaughey, an Academy Award-winning actor, is a man of many roles. He is a loving husband and father to three children, and he values his relationships with his family members.
He sees himself as a storyteller, telling tales through his craft. He enjoys having a beer on his way to the temple, and he feels invigorated after a good sweat.
In 2009, Matthew and his wife, Camila, established the “just keep livin” Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to assist high school students who are at risk by promoting healthier choices for their mind, body, and spirit.
In 2019, McConaughey accepted the role of professor of practice at the University of Texas at Austin. He also took on the position of Minister of Culture/M.O.C. for the University of Texas and the City of Austin.
McConaughey is a brand ambassador for Lincoln Motor Company, a co-creator of his favorite bourbon, Wild Turkey Longbranch, and an owner of the Major League Soccer club Austin FC.
Editoral Review
Matthew McConaughey’s memoir, Greenlights, is a captivating read that takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and reflection. The book was first published on October 20, 2020, and has since received critical acclaim for its honesty, humor, and wisdom.
McConaughey, a renowned actor and Academy Award winner, writes in a conversational style that feels like he’s just sitting down and talking with you. In Greenlights, McConaughey shares stories from his childhood in Texas, his rise to fame in Hollywood, and his personal and spiritual growth over the years.
The memoir is divided into three parts, with each section representing a different stage in McConaughey’s life. He uses the metaphor of green lights to describe moments of success and opportunity, and how these moments can be created and embraced.
The book is filled with colorful characters, from McConaughey’s eccentric family members to his famous friends and colleagues. He is unapologetic about his flaws and mistakes, and acknowledges the role that luck and privilege have played in his success.
However, he also emphasizes the importance of hard work, perseverance, and staying true to one’s values. McConaughey’s writing style is unique and engaging, with a mix of storytelling, poetry, and philosophy.
He doesn’t shy away from discussing deeper topics like love, happiness, and mortality, and encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and decisions. In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, Greenlights provides a refreshing perspective on what it means to live a meaningful life.
One of the strengths of Greenlights is McConaughey’s ability to connect with readers on a personal level. He speaks openly and honestly about his own struggles and insecurities, and encourages readers to embrace their own imperfections.
He also draws on his experiences as a father, husband, and citizen, and offers practical advice on how to navigate challenges and find happiness. However, one potential weakness of the book is its lack of structure.
McConaughey jumps back and forth between different timelines and anecdotes, which can be confusing at times. He also uses colloquial language and slang, which may not appeal to all readers.
Overall, Greenlights is a well-written and engaging memoir that offers a unique perspective on life and success. It is recommended for fans of McConaughey’s work, as well as anyone seeking inspiration and guidance in their own personal journey.
The book receives a score of 4 out of 5 stars, based on its strengths in storytelling, self-reflection, and authenticity.