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How to Be a Grown-Up
For fans of Bryony Gordon and Caitlin Moran, a comforting, witty, supportive book for real twenty-something women who want to discover how they can reach the end of the 'fun' decade knowing exactly who they are.Have you ever felt lost, anxious, panicky about adulthood?Have you ever spent a hungover Sunday crying into a bowl of cereal?Have you ever scrolled through Instagram and felt nothing but green-eyed jealousy and evil thoughts?Award-winning journalist, Grazia agony aunt and real-life big sister to five smart, stylish, stunning twenty-something young women, Daisy Buchanan has been there, done that and got the vajazzle.In How to be a Grown-Up, she dispenses all the emotional and practical advice you need to negotiate a difficult decade. Covering everything from how to become more successful and confident at work, how to feel pride in yourself without needing validation from others, how to turn rivals into mentors, and how to *really* enjoy spending time on your own, this is a warm, kind, funny voice in the dark saying "Honestly don't worry, you're doing your best and you're amazing!"
272 pages, Paperback
First published April 6, 2017
103 people are currently reading
2295 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
April 8, 2017
A handbook for 20-30 somethings to help steer their way through the digital age.
When I first began reading How To Be A Grown Up I have to confess to thinking ‘Oh good grief. More self-indulgent navel gazing!’ and setting it aside in a grumpy fashion. I didn’t like it at all.
And then I thought about it. I’m not a 20-30 something. In fact I was 56 yesterday! But I have been 20-30 (and I did have a university friend who was, like Rosie, allergic to alcohol). So I picked up the book again and had another go. And I got it! I think it was when Daisy revealed she’d stopped thinking of herself as a child in a grown-up’s world as she developed intergenerational friendships that I realised I had to stop reading How To Be A Grown Up as an adult in a child’s world!
How To Be A Grown Up has a lively and intelligent style that conveys an awful lot of good advice. I think that as I’ve never really had an issue with who I am or what people think of me I didn’t really appreciate just how hard it can be for those who do and what Daisy Buchanan does is provide realistic everyday advice for those struggling. I found the real life comments from others that exemplify her points quite touching at times. Although I appreciate that Daisy is a modern feminist, I would have liked some male views as a balance too so that readers could understand the issues are those of humans and not just women.
The topics covered are varied and relevant from money and mental health to masturbation so that there is something for all readers. The practical ‘Daisy Does This‘ sections dotted throughout give an insight into the author as well as good advice and I think there is real wisdom between these pages. I especially liked Daisy’s letter to herself and the chapter How To Make Mistakes.
So, from initially not liking How To Be A Grown Up, I actually really enjoyed it. Maybe it made me confront my own grown-upness when I didn’t really want to believe I was a grown up at all! I may not have any of the issues dealt with in the book, but reading it made me appreciate the positives I have even more. I think those 20-30 somethings will love it!
When I first began reading How To Be A Grown Up I have to confess to thinking ‘Oh good grief. More self-indulgent navel gazing!’ and setting it aside in a grumpy fashion. I didn’t like it at all.
And then I thought about it. I’m not a 20-30 something. In fact I was 56 yesterday! But I have been 20-30 (and I did have a university friend who was, like Rosie, allergic to alcohol). So I picked up the book again and had another go. And I got it! I think it was when Daisy revealed she’d stopped thinking of herself as a child in a grown-up’s world as she developed intergenerational friendships that I realised I had to stop reading How To Be A Grown Up as an adult in a child’s world!
How To Be A Grown Up has a lively and intelligent style that conveys an awful lot of good advice. I think that as I’ve never really had an issue with who I am or what people think of me I didn’t really appreciate just how hard it can be for those who do and what Daisy Buchanan does is provide realistic everyday advice for those struggling. I found the real life comments from others that exemplify her points quite touching at times. Although I appreciate that Daisy is a modern feminist, I would have liked some male views as a balance too so that readers could understand the issues are those of humans and not just women.
The topics covered are varied and relevant from money and mental health to masturbation so that there is something for all readers. The practical ‘Daisy Does This‘ sections dotted throughout give an insight into the author as well as good advice and I think there is real wisdom between these pages. I especially liked Daisy’s letter to herself and the chapter How To Make Mistakes.
So, from initially not liking How To Be A Grown Up, I actually really enjoyed it. Maybe it made me confront my own grown-upness when I didn’t really want to believe I was a grown up at all! I may not have any of the issues dealt with in the book, but reading it made me appreciate the positives I have even more. I think those 20-30 somethings will love it!
July 22, 2018
I'm a little bit old for the intended demographics for this book but downloaded it as you're never too old to learn a few new tricks.
There's a lot of good advice in here and I really liked the ideas around building online friendships. There are topics for all types of readers from money and mental health to even masturbation. It's really quick and easy to read. I enjoyed it
Free arc from netgalley
There's a lot of good advice in here and I really liked the ideas around building online friendships. There are topics for all types of readers from money and mental health to even masturbation. It's really quick and easy to read. I enjoyed it
Free arc from netgalley
January 5, 2021
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
“We should all seek to surround ourselves with people whom we choose, who choose us back, and make us feel ten times taller than we actually are.”
Yes, this was exactly what I needed to read right now. Absolutely loved this, especially the chapters on self care, work, sadness and money. Some bits were so relatable that it felt like I was reading my own story. It's so good to know that the things I'm struggling with in my twenties are universal problems, shit that women all over the world deal with on a daily basis (and I'm sure men do to, but this book is written by a woman, for women). It's comforting to know that I'm not alone; gives me a sense of belonging and of being part of a sisterhood. Reading this book also made me realize that making mistakes, feeling horribly sad, wanting to eat an entire bar of chocolate or getting drunk once in a while are NOT defining who I am as a person, but they are part of me and that's okay.
Really enjoyed this (finished it in two days, so yeah). Highly recommend it!
“We can't future-proof love. When we're with someone, we're vulnerable. Love is dangerous, and there's no way of doing it safely. There is no condom for the heart. But we can protect ourselves with self love, and the knowledge that we don't need anyone to complete us. We can't be with anyone who makes us feel as though we're not enough on our own.”
“We should all seek to surround ourselves with people whom we choose, who choose us back, and make us feel ten times taller than we actually are.”
Yes, this was exactly what I needed to read right now. Absolutely loved this, especially the chapters on self care, work, sadness and money. Some bits were so relatable that it felt like I was reading my own story. It's so good to know that the things I'm struggling with in my twenties are universal problems, shit that women all over the world deal with on a daily basis (and I'm sure men do to, but this book is written by a woman, for women). It's comforting to know that I'm not alone; gives me a sense of belonging and of being part of a sisterhood. Reading this book also made me realize that making mistakes, feeling horribly sad, wanting to eat an entire bar of chocolate or getting drunk once in a while are NOT defining who I am as a person, but they are part of me and that's okay.
Really enjoyed this (finished it in two days, so yeah). Highly recommend it!
“We can't future-proof love. When we're with someone, we're vulnerable. Love is dangerous, and there's no way of doing it safely. There is no condom for the heart. But we can protect ourselves with self love, and the knowledge that we don't need anyone to complete us. We can't be with anyone who makes us feel as though we're not enough on our own.”
April 6, 2019
DNF’ed at 40%.
Never have so ever felt so patronised reading a book!!!
In one chapter it explained and described how to WASH YOUR HAIR!!!?!?!? nah!! Don’t think so! That’s when I decided to stop reading!
DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO ANYONE. SAVE YOUR MONEY!!
Never have so ever felt so patronised reading a book!!!
In one chapter it explained and described how to WASH YOUR HAIR!!!?!?!? nah!! Don’t think so! That’s when I decided to stop reading!
DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO ANYONE. SAVE YOUR MONEY!!
January 13, 2021
Loved this! Perfect summary of what you shouldn’t care about in your twenties but really, really do. It’s slightly outdated in terms of technology etc because it’s a few years old, but definitely hugely relatable and puts things into perspective that every woman goes through similar experiences/concerns. Have recommended to lots of my friends!
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October 17, 2025A wise, wry and witty look at surviving your twenties. Loved it!
September 10, 2018
First of all, a bit of a disclaimer. This book is aimed at 20 somethings which puts me just a little (a lot) out of the main demographic. However, I don't feel like a grown up most of the time so I thought it could still be useful. As if to prove that I need growing up advice, I caught myself trying to stuff the book into the teeny tiny little kids bag I had bought. However, there were also some signs it was not really for me, such as when I had to google Encarta... and I'm still left wondering what on Earth are jorts???
The book is full of humorous stories about experiences we all go through like making new friends, falling in love and trying to relax. While not exactly life changing, the book is actually full of bits of good advice, such as to keep moving. Sometimes just putting one foot in front of the other is enough of a purpose. It made me want to make an effort to widen my social circle. It is also good for just dipping into when you need advice on something particular. There are chapters for anything from how to be confident, how to make mistakes, and even how to wash your hair. As well as advice on panic attacks and how to be sad.
My favourite thing was the summaries and advice at the ends of the chapters. The section titled "Do you really need to tweet that?" was the absolute best part of the book. Hilarious and so very wise! But I also completely loved this line: I know...how important it is to remember quietly, 'I am good,' instead of screaming, 'Everyone else is better.'
The book is full of humorous stories about experiences we all go through like making new friends, falling in love and trying to relax. While not exactly life changing, the book is actually full of bits of good advice, such as to keep moving. Sometimes just putting one foot in front of the other is enough of a purpose. It made me want to make an effort to widen my social circle. It is also good for just dipping into when you need advice on something particular. There are chapters for anything from how to be confident, how to make mistakes, and even how to wash your hair. As well as advice on panic attacks and how to be sad.
My favourite thing was the summaries and advice at the ends of the chapters. The section titled "Do you really need to tweet that?" was the absolute best part of the book. Hilarious and so very wise! But I also completely loved this line: I know...how important it is to remember quietly, 'I am good,' instead of screaming, 'Everyone else is better.'
August 22, 2022
A great book! Really enjoyed this, easy to read and very useful. Would highly recommend. Let me know if you want to borrow it.
May 31, 2022
This is a book aimed at people in their twenties written by someone in the thirties about what she wished she had known or realised. There are a lot of books like this one around at the moment that are part self-help, part autobiographical. This one in many ways was very similar in that it aimed to show the reader they were not alone and offer tips (often of common sense). It’s target audience is for people who maybe aren’t quite sure yet what they want out of life and shows that this can be okay as everyone is working it out as they go along.
July 27, 2019
I am on a bit of a self-help book binge at the moment, so I've been reading a lot of books and at 20-something year old women who feel a bit lost or overwhelmed. I picked this one up because it sounded like it would be pretty inspiring, especially with recommendations from Dolly Alderton and Bryony Gordon - both whose books I've read this year.
It wasn't however quite what I hoped it would be. There's nothing in here that I didn't already know and I found the whole tone and little patronising. It seems to end with this belief that by finding her oh-so-perfect husband, everything has worked out fine - which is the complete opposite of what I'm looking for in a self help book for struggling young women! One piece of genuine advice that she gives is "date an older man"! The book shouldn't be called "how to be a grown-up", it should be called "why you can only be your best self if you're part of a smug married couple". Unbelievable stuff in a self help book.
If anything, I actually felt worse after reading the book becauseit made me feel like such a failure because I haven't been able to empathise with "feeling quietly delighted as you smell the sleep on his skin and observe the way his tufty hair is framed by the pillow" - that's a genuine quote.
It wasn't however quite what I hoped it would be. There's nothing in here that I didn't already know and I found the whole tone and little patronising. It seems to end with this belief that by finding her oh-so-perfect husband, everything has worked out fine - which is the complete opposite of what I'm looking for in a self help book for struggling young women! One piece of genuine advice that she gives is "date an older man"! The book shouldn't be called "how to be a grown-up", it should be called "why you can only be your best self if you're part of a smug married couple". Unbelievable stuff in a self help book.
If anything, I actually felt worse after reading the book becauseit made me feel like such a failure because I haven't been able to empathise with "feeling quietly delighted as you smell the sleep on his skin and observe the way his tufty hair is framed by the pillow" - that's a genuine quote.
January 27, 2021
Gosh I wish I'd had this to read in my twenties.
August 18, 2018
Reading this for me was like having a good chat with my older, slightly more sensible, friend. Yes, lots of this I had heard before but seeing it written down in paper often just helps to remind you that you are not a complete muppet.
My favourite line has to be the last line in this book "If you can light a scented candle without burning your house down, you are a successful adult". First of all, Yes I am an adult! Secondly, do I get to keep my new found adult status if I admit that while I may be able to light the candle, extinguishing the candle without spilling the wax/ blowing the wax on the bath tiles is a trick I am yet to master???? :-)
My favourite line has to be the last line in this book "If you can light a scented candle without burning your house down, you are a successful adult". First of all, Yes I am an adult! Secondly, do I get to keep my new found adult status if I admit that while I may be able to light the candle, extinguishing the candle without spilling the wax/ blowing the wax on the bath tiles is a trick I am yet to master???? :-)
January 8, 2021
Quite a relevant book for now I found, as it touches on self-love, sadness and mistakes. I think during the pandemic, there has been a lot of pressure to learn something and be okay all of the time when this is not the case. There are some good tips to feeling better about being in your twenties and not having it all together because most people are just like you. It was a great read for when times have been a bit down and dull!
March 10, 2018
A very quick and easy read, but still helpful on certain aspects of life. Some parts are obvious and you wonder why she put them in there, but I guess to me it's obvious but to others it might not be? Will certainly go back and highlight certain advice and thoughts to remind me how not to be jealous, or how to relax and be calm etc. Enjoyed her anecdotes too, I'm glad there's so many!
January 3, 2019
Honest, truthful and hilarious. And maybe, I know how to wash my hair correctly now.
February 7, 2018
I’m 23 and it’s so very relatable.
May 6, 2022
It took me forever to finish this book. There was some useful advice in there and it was just a genuinely warm book to read, I think I struggled through it because it forces you to confront things you're working through but Buchanan has a very comforting style of writing that makes you feel better about the stresses of your twenties
May 23, 2022
A great collection of essays that make you feel less alone. From love to finding love, to career mistakes and learning to look after yourself: a great handbook to surviving your twenties.
August 9, 2017
Kiss, marry, or kill? MARRY. Yes, a thousand times YES.
My type? I literally cannot think of a book that is more my type. Chatty, thoughtful, warm, and such a comfort.
“Easy” read? Yes but it took my MONTHS to finish because I didn't want it to end!
Love at first line? Yes, I have no chill.
Most attractive trait? It's just the friendliest, most charming pile of pillows.
Character I’d swipe right on? Daisy, marry me.
Character I’d swipe left on? The full stop at the end ;)
Ideal reading date? Here is a book for the bath tub. A book for a crowded, anxiety inducing tube trip. A book for the lunch you take yourself out to on that really stressful day at work. A book for your pyjamas and a book for sneakily reading on your phone at an unfun party.
I’ve had a crush on Daisy’s work for a whiiile – I’ve got a longstanding habit of clicking everything she writes – whether she’s advertised as the author or not, that’s how to taste her writing is for me – I just know I’m going to like it. So WHY did I put off reading it for such a long time when it came out earlier this year? I don’t know, I was weirdly anxious and scared about how it would make ME feel as a writer, too.
But, because this book is what it is, all it did was make me feel so much better – even about my weird choice to put off reading it. I have said this to death, but this book is like getting a really big, warm hug, and it’s one I’m going to keep coming back to.
Full of chatty, thoughtful, and LOL essays on the lessons Daisy has learned in life so far, How to Be A Grown Up could also be titled: HEY IT’S NOT JUST YOU. With entries on her experiences with her mental health, body image, money management, sex, clothes, and just about all those other things you’re definitely Googling hoping you got it right or just flat out pretending doesn’t exist, How to Be A Grown Up is an ideal primer for late teens and early twenty somethings, a really fucking great shoulder to cry on for late twentysomethings, and a knowing look for readers who have been through it all already.
In addition to recounting her experiences, Daisy’s book includes anecdotes from friends and colleagues, and short, doable, very scan-print-and-hang-by-your-mirror-able tips for getting through those classic growing pains of your twenties. It was just a pure delight, and the kindest, most comforting book I’ve read in a long, long time.
My type? I literally cannot think of a book that is more my type. Chatty, thoughtful, warm, and such a comfort.
“Easy” read? Yes but it took my MONTHS to finish because I didn't want it to end!
Love at first line? Yes, I have no chill.
Most attractive trait? It's just the friendliest, most charming pile of pillows.
Character I’d swipe right on? Daisy, marry me.
Character I’d swipe left on? The full stop at the end ;)
Ideal reading date? Here is a book for the bath tub. A book for a crowded, anxiety inducing tube trip. A book for the lunch you take yourself out to on that really stressful day at work. A book for your pyjamas and a book for sneakily reading on your phone at an unfun party.
I’ve had a crush on Daisy’s work for a whiiile – I’ve got a longstanding habit of clicking everything she writes – whether she’s advertised as the author or not, that’s how to taste her writing is for me – I just know I’m going to like it. So WHY did I put off reading it for such a long time when it came out earlier this year? I don’t know, I was weirdly anxious and scared about how it would make ME feel as a writer, too.
But, because this book is what it is, all it did was make me feel so much better – even about my weird choice to put off reading it. I have said this to death, but this book is like getting a really big, warm hug, and it’s one I’m going to keep coming back to.
Full of chatty, thoughtful, and LOL essays on the lessons Daisy has learned in life so far, How to Be A Grown Up could also be titled: HEY IT’S NOT JUST YOU. With entries on her experiences with her mental health, body image, money management, sex, clothes, and just about all those other things you’re definitely Googling hoping you got it right or just flat out pretending doesn’t exist, How to Be A Grown Up is an ideal primer for late teens and early twenty somethings, a really fucking great shoulder to cry on for late twentysomethings, and a knowing look for readers who have been through it all already.
In addition to recounting her experiences, Daisy’s book includes anecdotes from friends and colleagues, and short, doable, very scan-print-and-hang-by-your-mirror-able tips for getting through those classic growing pains of your twenties. It was just a pure delight, and the kindest, most comforting book I’ve read in a long, long time.
June 23, 2017
A bit of a mixed bag, and I've been staring at the review box for ages working out to exactly word this...
On one hand it was funny and honest, making it a refreshing change from the crowd of self-help / self-development gurus who reek of perfection and appear to (from the outside at least) to have unattainable and unrealistic amounts of joy in their life.
But on the other hand, I didn't find any of the advice ground-breaking and I had already figured out most of it on my own. Don't get me wrong, Daisy speaking about her mistakes and set-backs was a warm and fuzzy reminder that we all have them but when I read a self-development book aimed at "surviving your twenties" I don't expect to be spoon-fed life guidance that my 19-year-old self could have dished out.
As a note, I started consuming self-development books when I was a teenager so maybe that's why I got there a bit quicker? I dunno. As I said, mixed feelings but still a good read for girls in their early 20s - just don't expect any epiphanies.
On one hand it was funny and honest, making it a refreshing change from the crowd of self-help / self-development gurus who reek of perfection and appear to (from the outside at least) to have unattainable and unrealistic amounts of joy in their life.
But on the other hand, I didn't find any of the advice ground-breaking and I had already figured out most of it on my own. Don't get me wrong, Daisy speaking about her mistakes and set-backs was a warm and fuzzy reminder that we all have them but when I read a self-development book aimed at "surviving your twenties" I don't expect to be spoon-fed life guidance that my 19-year-old self could have dished out.
As a note, I started consuming self-development books when I was a teenager so maybe that's why I got there a bit quicker? I dunno. As I said, mixed feelings but still a good read for girls in their early 20s - just don't expect any epiphanies.
October 25, 2019
Oh Daisy. Where on earth were you when I was growing up! This book is an absolute treat which I could associate with quite a bit now I’m old and grey.
There is some great advice in each chapter, yet it’s a warm and fun read too. If you’re feeling down, I recommend grabbing yourselves How To Be A Grown Up from your nearest Bookstore.
This book is staying close by, I know I can pick it up when I’m feeling a little low and be uplifted straight away by flicking through the book and finding a snippet of hilarity!! I’ve just flicked, page 165 opened and I’m not spoiling the title but I’m now having trouble seeing my keypad for the tears running down my cheeks. Thanks Daisy xxx
There is some great advice in each chapter, yet it’s a warm and fun read too. If you’re feeling down, I recommend grabbing yourselves How To Be A Grown Up from your nearest Bookstore.
This book is staying close by, I know I can pick it up when I’m feeling a little low and be uplifted straight away by flicking through the book and finding a snippet of hilarity!! I’ve just flicked, page 165 opened and I’m not spoiling the title but I’m now having trouble seeing my keypad for the tears running down my cheeks. Thanks Daisy xxx
January 18, 2025
Ridiculously Funny! At points I swear she as describing my life, it was so relatable and in actual fact a relief that I am not the only one who feels this way in her late 20's! Amazing book MUST READ!
August 4, 2018
Patronising stuff, though it's possible I'm about 15 years older than the target audience. Only got halfway through. Maybe it picks up later.
March 28, 2019
I wanted to like this so much but had to stop reading about 5 chapters in. I think if I'd read it as a 20 year old I would have really liked it, but alas I'm in my early 30s.
January 3, 2019
**I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review/ as a result of my job**
Everyone needs to read this book. It is quite simply fabulous. Daisy reminisces on her trials and tribulations from her early twenties and what she's now realised as she's entered her thirties. Now, though I'm twenty-one...nearly twenty-two, I still found myself nodding along to paragraphs in this. It got to a point regarding iPhones where I was howling with laughter, couldn't catch my breath and proceeded to send a photo of the phrase to everyone I know.
I also found it very reassuring to see that I wasn't the only person concerned that at twenty-one I hadn't got my life together. In the sense of that when I was fourteen I thought I'd have a stable relationship (well, I've made a start on this so...), have my own home and would have a degree and be a working woman. Now, I've sorta half done most of that. I've recently met a lovely guy. HE COOKS. I'm saved. For those unaware I am the person that put foil in the toaster and couldn't figure out why the oven wasn't warming up...I had turned on the wrong part of the oven. I had, what was meant to be a pizza in there for over twenty minutes... I still live at home but as we all know that in this day and age I'm doomed to never own my home due to my adoration of the avocado. 'Tis the disease of the millennials. It is in fact nothing to do with the rising house prices, difficulty finding a well payed and/or salaried job and the near Mensa level puzzle solving it takes to figure out the mythical being that is the mortgage. I am about to enter the second year of my degree after taking a few years out following a hellish college experience. I've been a bookseller for just under six years now... So, I have half done most. Which considering where I was two years ago I didn't think I'd be sat here looking at my University time table and thinking well when can I get the train down to see my lovely boyfriend. I like to think fourteen year old Katie would be okay with the current situation.
What I loved most about this book is how Daisy got her friends and family involved. In each section she had someone else share their experiences of dating, jobs, health everything. It felt like a wonderful support group with the overriding message of trust us, your doing fine. If you're getting a full eight hours, have food on the table and are looking after yourself you're winning at life. Which is something I think everyone needs to hear. Do I want to own my own home? Of course but I don't need to put a time limit on it. In the same breath just because you've labeled a job as your dream career doesn't mean that when you enter it you must stick to it. Health both physical and mental should be placed above all else. I can see this being a book that I go back to again and again.
I already intend to make everyone in my life read this.
www.a-novel-idea.co.uk
Everyone needs to read this book. It is quite simply fabulous. Daisy reminisces on her trials and tribulations from her early twenties and what she's now realised as she's entered her thirties. Now, though I'm twenty-one...nearly twenty-two, I still found myself nodding along to paragraphs in this. It got to a point regarding iPhones where I was howling with laughter, couldn't catch my breath and proceeded to send a photo of the phrase to everyone I know.
I also found it very reassuring to see that I wasn't the only person concerned that at twenty-one I hadn't got my life together. In the sense of that when I was fourteen I thought I'd have a stable relationship (well, I've made a start on this so...), have my own home and would have a degree and be a working woman. Now, I've sorta half done most of that. I've recently met a lovely guy. HE COOKS. I'm saved. For those unaware I am the person that put foil in the toaster and couldn't figure out why the oven wasn't warming up...I had turned on the wrong part of the oven. I had, what was meant to be a pizza in there for over twenty minutes... I still live at home but as we all know that in this day and age I'm doomed to never own my home due to my adoration of the avocado. 'Tis the disease of the millennials. It is in fact nothing to do with the rising house prices, difficulty finding a well payed and/or salaried job and the near Mensa level puzzle solving it takes to figure out the mythical being that is the mortgage. I am about to enter the second year of my degree after taking a few years out following a hellish college experience. I've been a bookseller for just under six years now... So, I have half done most. Which considering where I was two years ago I didn't think I'd be sat here looking at my University time table and thinking well when can I get the train down to see my lovely boyfriend. I like to think fourteen year old Katie would be okay with the current situation.
What I loved most about this book is how Daisy got her friends and family involved. In each section she had someone else share their experiences of dating, jobs, health everything. It felt like a wonderful support group with the overriding message of trust us, your doing fine. If you're getting a full eight hours, have food on the table and are looking after yourself you're winning at life. Which is something I think everyone needs to hear. Do I want to own my own home? Of course but I don't need to put a time limit on it. In the same breath just because you've labeled a job as your dream career doesn't mean that when you enter it you must stick to it. Health both physical and mental should be placed above all else. I can see this being a book that I go back to again and again.
I already intend to make everyone in my life read this.
www.a-novel-idea.co.uk
June 26, 2018
This review was originally posted on StrupagSometimes it's just nice to read a book that you can relate to. I might be in my thirties and been through a lot in my three and a bit decades on the planet, but I think How To Be A Grown-Up is a phrase I'll forever ponder (won't we all) and so Daisy Buchanan's book called to me.
Ok, full disclosure, I didn't actually know who Daisy Buchanan was before I picked up this book (if you're wondering she is an award-winning journalist and Grazia agony aunt), but I now feel like she's my pal.
Buchanan shares her life with such honesty; the lessons shes's learned, mistakes she's made, emotions she has tackled, such that by the end of this book I felt I knew her. From Instagram jealousy to fear of the financial, panic attacks to body image, Daisy writes with honesty, humour, and wit. Her anecdotes are relatable, and I can't tell you the number of times I felt less alone reading this.
Going through major changes at this stage in my life isn't something that I ever expected or wanted, but although Daisy's story is very different to mine, her kindness and advice on being kind to yourself shine through. It has helped me.
Sometimes I fear a book like this can come across a bit 'preachy' but that isn't the case here. Daisy lifts the lid on her life with seemingly nothing off limits - sharing her more difficult times with us as well as the happier times.
I enjoyed Daisy's writing, her way with words and turn of phrase often appealing to my sense of humour.
Perhaps I related to a lot of this book as I was raised in the same era as Daisy. However, I do feel that those in their 20s will get a lot from this book, maybe a bit like an older sister sharing advice.
20s, 30s or 40s - do we ever really know how to be a grown-up? If this is a question that you often ponder then Daisy's book is one for you. A perfect easy-to-read book for your Summer TBR.
P.S. I just noticed that the Kindle edition is only 99p on Amazon right now! (Not an affiliate link)
Ok, full disclosure, I didn't actually know who Daisy Buchanan was before I picked up this book (if you're wondering she is an award-winning journalist and Grazia agony aunt), but I now feel like she's my pal.
Buchanan shares her life with such honesty; the lessons shes's learned, mistakes she's made, emotions she has tackled, such that by the end of this book I felt I knew her. From Instagram jealousy to fear of the financial, panic attacks to body image, Daisy writes with honesty, humour, and wit. Her anecdotes are relatable, and I can't tell you the number of times I felt less alone reading this.
Going through major changes at this stage in my life isn't something that I ever expected or wanted, but although Daisy's story is very different to mine, her kindness and advice on being kind to yourself shine through. It has helped me.
Sometimes I fear a book like this can come across a bit 'preachy' but that isn't the case here. Daisy lifts the lid on her life with seemingly nothing off limits - sharing her more difficult times with us as well as the happier times.
I enjoyed Daisy's writing, her way with words and turn of phrase often appealing to my sense of humour.
Perhaps I related to a lot of this book as I was raised in the same era as Daisy. However, I do feel that those in their 20s will get a lot from this book, maybe a bit like an older sister sharing advice.
20s, 30s or 40s - do we ever really know how to be a grown-up? If this is a question that you often ponder then Daisy's book is one for you. A perfect easy-to-read book for your Summer TBR.
P.S. I just noticed that the Kindle edition is only 99p on Amazon right now! (Not an affiliate link)
January 25, 2024
'If you ever worry about where your life is going, you’re definitely moving in the right direction.'
Like those books by authors such as Dolly Alderton and Elizabeth Day, this book will not tell you anything you do not already know.
Also, I would argue that (although I don't necessarily remember much of it), I imagine a lot of the 'advice' in here was less about being a grown-up and more about Daisy Buchanan's feelings towards adulthood. Nothing wrong with that; but it shouldn't be advertised as a self-help book when it is really just a memoir. And, if Buchanan's novels are anything to go by, I'm not sure I want her advice about what being a 'grown-up' might entail.
I'm gonna be honest: I only remembered I'd even read this book about seven (?) years later when I was looking through quotes I had copied down onto my notes app. So, yeah, pretty much tells you all you need to know...
Like those books by authors such as Dolly Alderton and Elizabeth Day, this book will not tell you anything you do not already know.
Also, I would argue that (although I don't necessarily remember much of it), I imagine a lot of the 'advice' in here was less about being a grown-up and more about Daisy Buchanan's feelings towards adulthood. Nothing wrong with that; but it shouldn't be advertised as a self-help book when it is really just a memoir. And, if Buchanan's novels are anything to go by, I'm not sure I want her advice about what being a 'grown-up' might entail.
I'm gonna be honest: I only remembered I'd even read this book about seven (?) years later when I was looking through quotes I had copied down onto my notes app. So, yeah, pretty much tells you all you need to know...
March 30, 2018
It is hard being an adult. Especially when you are in your twenties . When you think about it, you are still in your infancy of being an adult. You are still learning how to be a grown p. It is this strange paradigm that is the subject of Daisy Buchanan’s book How to Be A Grown Up.
I really related to this book and Buchanan’s struggles. I struggled through my twenties. I got myself in debt due to the dreaded FOMO. I lost friends, had dramatic romantic dalliances. I won’t lie, my twenties were awesome but they also sucked.
How to Be A Grown Up should be issued to everyone as a set text when they turn eighteen. It is definitely a book for anyone feeling a bit unsure about this whole adult life thing. If you feel like you are doing your twenties “wrong” (and at some point you probably will) then Daisy Buchanan is here to assure you that you are doing just fine.
For more information regarding Daisy Buchanan (NotRollerGirl) please visit her Twitter page.
For more information regarding Headline Books (@Headlinepg) please visit www.headline.co.uk.
I really related to this book and Buchanan’s struggles. I struggled through my twenties. I got myself in debt due to the dreaded FOMO. I lost friends, had dramatic romantic dalliances. I won’t lie, my twenties were awesome but they also sucked.
How to Be A Grown Up should be issued to everyone as a set text when they turn eighteen. It is definitely a book for anyone feeling a bit unsure about this whole adult life thing. If you feel like you are doing your twenties “wrong” (and at some point you probably will) then Daisy Buchanan is here to assure you that you are doing just fine.
For more information regarding Daisy Buchanan (NotRollerGirl) please visit her Twitter page.
For more information regarding Headline Books (@Headlinepg) please visit www.headline.co.uk.
December 28, 2022
Don’t let the title fool you: regardless of age, we can all use an instructional book about adulting. While this book reads like Daisy Buchanan perhaps meant it for it to help 20-somethings (it was, after all, written by the author about her own 20s and what she learned), I’m going to recommend it, right here, smack in the middle of my 40s, to literally anyone who has ever looked around and wondered how they got to adulthood. Responsibilities, feelings, work, bills, (mental) health, friends and love…she covers it all and more. Most importantly, she normalizes feeling overwhelmed, tired, terrified, crazed, and really just too young for this sh!t. And if making it through your 20s isn’t hard enough, Buchanan did it with an anxiety disorder, about which she is candid and open. (I also give her top props for being a big fan of baths.) 🛀🏻
…oh, and Daisy’s tips on washing your hair…? I highly recommend. 🚿🧖🏻♀️💖
…oh, and Daisy’s tips on washing your hair…? I highly recommend. 🚿🧖🏻♀️💖
December 17, 2021
I quite enjoyed the book until the last few paragraphs. The paragraph on money felt like she was making excuses for her behaviour, saying you need to be kind and not blame yourself. Err yeah, you're 100% responsible if you get yourself into that financial mess. The idea of 'treating yourself' is exactly why people get themselves into messes in the first place, so I wouldn't exactly recommend doing this when you're already in tons of debt. Not the message you should be giving to young readers.
The bit at the end about her husband felt like the wrong message too. 'I was going to spend a year loving myself, but then I met my husband'. Kinda undermines everything else she wrote, when the final words of the book are about how perfect her partner is.
Torn between 3/4* but gone with 4* as it's an easy read.
The bit at the end about her husband felt like the wrong message too. 'I was going to spend a year loving myself, but then I met my husband'. Kinda undermines everything else she wrote, when the final words of the book are about how perfect her partner is.
Torn between 3/4* but gone with 4* as it's an easy read.
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