Joe Armstrong spent nine years studying for the Catholic priesthood. He no longer believes in God. This is his acclaimed, searingly honest coming-of-age memoir of his nine years in the Marist Fathers seminary in 1980s Dublin, Ireland.

A case study of procrastination and self-discovery, it is of interest to anyone who has ever fluctuated this way and that and struggled to make a big life decision. It shows the author’s gradual transition from lack of confidence in himself to finally knowing what he wanted. It shows how he found the courage to make the hardest and best decision of his life. It champions the wisdom of doubt, and sees doubt as the beginning of wisdom. It charts the author’s inner movement from obedience to a church to learning to obey himself. He learns to trust himself, think for himself, and be true to himself. 

This is a rare authentic insight into the true lives of celibate seminarians and priests. It is also of interest to those struggling with co-dependency, giving a frank portrayal of a complex relationship with a dysfunctional mother. It is also a fascinating portrayal of an experience with counseling, and how it can help us to break destructive patterns and gain authority for our lives.

Despite the profound theme, it is a compelling, easy-to-listen-to memoir, with many moments of humor. Superbly written, the audiobook is performed with panache by the author.