Book reviews

You 2.0 Book Review

Posted on November 12, 2025, tagged as

In our society about fifty percent of marriages end in divorce. Divorce is one of the most emotionally traumatic experiences one can encounter, and usually nothing in the past life of the individual has prepared them for divorce. Justin Milrad has written a book, You 2.0, which discusses the difficulties in detail and gives much practical advice for negotiating these difficulties. He draws on his own experience as a divorcee, and on the research and wisdom of psychologists, philosophers, and noted writers. He quotes the thoughts of such people as Mitch Albom, Brene Brown, Joseph Campbell, Dr. Lisa Damour, Dr. Judith Wallerstein, Alan Watts, and Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel. 

While there is little in the book about addiction recovery per se, it is safe to say that most addicted and codependent people have either been divorced or are likely to be divorced in the future. Thus, the information and advice found in this book can be of great value to people dealing with addictions and to their family members. The book reads easily and is filled with practical advice. Topics include helping children through the separation and aftermath of the divorce, dealing with finances, finding the right kind of professional guidance, dealing with regrets, shame, and feelings of guilt and anger, and rebuilding one’s life afterwards. Many referrals to websites and other resources are offered.

A theme found throughout the book is that of using divorce as an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and finding new purpose and meaning in life. He stresses that there is a spiritual component to life that must be explored. Importantly, he talks specifically about life as a heroic journey as delineated by Joseph Campbell. This means that life is challenging, that we must accept the challenge and get whatever help we need. The journey takes us successfully through the circumstances of our lives, and at the same time takes us on a journey of self-examination into the depths of our psyche and soul. Once we have accomplished the quest, we have acquired valuable gifts that we must share with others to help them on their journey in life. Joseph Campbell said that the purpose of the heroic journey is to redeem the world. This means making the world better. We do this both by becoming our better selves, and by helping those around us. This is in fact what Justin Milrad has done by writing this book.