In what started as an attempt to fulfill the fourth step of his Adult Children of Alcoholics and Al-Anon programs, Vincent Gervasi wrote a memoir titled Simpin’ Ain’t Easy. The author describes his relationships with his vices and details how he has used the lessons he learned to grow as a person. Women, alcohol, his dog, Olly, and his views are discussed at length, and he imparts the wisdom he has accumulated. An accident causes additional reflection and a new appreciation for life. Because of the accident, Gervasi could not deliver his speech, so he included it and a bonus chapter with an artificially generated “Twelve-Step Program for Simping” in his book.

With the use of urban slang and his varied experiences, Vincent Gervasi moves through the taboo subjects most people skirt or avoid in their memoirs. A reader must approach this book with an open mind as he shares his unadulterated perception of feminism and society, but he explains his views. Even though he takes responsibility for his own actions, Gervasi touches on his father’s mistakes and how some of his tendencies are relatable. Many readers will comprehend and understand his relationship struggles and will sympathize with the author over the loss of his dog. It’s easy to celebrate with Gervasi as he learns his self-worth and establishes better boundaries. The memoir shows perseverance and hope, making it an inspiration to some and a motivation for others. Simpin’ Ain’t Easy is a good selection for readers who enjoy memoirs and self-help books full of raw details, reflection, and personal growth.

In Simpin' Ain't Easy, Vincent Gervasi reflects on his life experiences to find answers to why he keeps attracting unavailable women and giving in to harmful emotions. Vincent also struggled with alcoholism and had to "twelve-step" his way to escape his various simping habits, which he explains in this memoir. These challenges and his general observations of himself and the world at large caused him to develop a refined, no-nonsense viewpoint that seeks positive transformation and smart choices. He speaks about being accountable for one's actions and transforming from blaming others to searching inward for answers. From dating apps to property splits in divorce and a chaotic relationship with a stripper, Simpin' Ain't Easy takes us on a captivating and eye-opening journey that teaches emotional control and cultivating a healthy mindset in dating and other aspects of life.

Readers like me who love the colorful terms that add weight to crucial words of advice will love this book. Vincent Gervasi talks about the things many people today don't want to say—whether it's about what separates men and women in the dating world or the youth's sensitive behavior and lack of accountability. As the book moves back and forth to different times in his life, we see how his past with an abusive father and other defining factors compelled him to dig deep for answers to his recurring problems. Simpin' Ain't Easy shows us the importance of taking time to unlearn and learning objectively and anew. Like Vincent, I hope to never give up and keep seeking answers even if I experience anxiety and depression. I was seriously inspired by how he went from being suicidal to writing an absolutely stunning and truth-packed memoir.