The Academic Self: An Owner's Manual

This is an excellent and brief investigation of the psychology of the academic self. It is a self-help book designed for those who set the bar very high and try to be all things to all people. Most helpful is the first chapter on "self" wherein the author calls academics to examine their own insecurities.

The first chapter ("Self") was a bit dense, but the following chapters were well worth the read. Hall is able to put into words the vague, amorphous culture of academia so well and offers well-measured, practical advice.

I especially appreciate his invitation to reflect on how we as individual scholars define career "success" and contribute to collegial cultures. This is a book I plan to return to as a touchstone throughout my career and is one I would share with future colleagues. Most useful for incoming/junior faculty, but also relevant for seasoned faculty and department chairs.