The Second Mountain Summary
David Brooks

The Second Mountain Overview

In his self-help book, The Second Mountain, former New York Times columnist and news commentator David Brooks shares his musings on the highs and lows of life – both professional and personal. One’s 20s, 30s and 40s comprise what Brooks calls the “First Mountain,” dedicated to career, finance, reputation and achievement. After that, however, the realization hits: Is there not something more? For Brooks, there is: It is called the “Second Mountain,” and this life stage is dedicated to others through one’s vocation and commitments. With examples from his own past and the experiences of many other figures, both past and present, Brooks not only documents how individuals have forged meaningful lives on The Second Mountain but how readers can too.