Tom Marks’s Coming of Age in Retirement is a funny, thoughtful, and eye-opening memoir-meets-social-commentary about stepping away from a high-powered advertising career and fumbling through the uncertain terrain of retirement. In the first half, Marks digs into the historical and cultural origins of retirement, exposing how our modern view of “the golden years” was shaped more by ad campaigns, policy quirks, and economic conditions than by personal reflection or purpose. The second half is deeply personal, as he recounts his own missteps and lessons while transitioning from agency life into something more grounded, honest, and, eventually, peaceful. What starts as a search for what to do in retirement becomes a much deeper look into how to be.

Reading this book felt like sitting across from a sharp, funny, slightly grumpy friend at a diner who’s finally telling you what’s really going on. The writing flows like conversation, sometimes punchy, sometimes tender, often bouncing between sarcasm and sincerity. I liked that Marks wasn’t trying to be a guru. He admits he got it wrong. He planned financially but never thought about the emotional tailspin that can come from losing your title, your schedule, your identity. He makes fun of his own cluelessness while unpacking how the advertising industry (his industry) has long sold seniors a glossy, unrealistic dream. He doesn’t offer rules or routines; instead, he gives raw, reflective stories. And honestly, I felt seen in them.

What stood out most was Marks’s willingness to be messy. He doesn’t tie things up in a bow. He talks about therapy. About shame. About trying too hard and letting go. And while some parts wandered a bit, especially in the sections about industry history, they always led back to something meaningful. His writing style zigzags, like a curious mind darting between memories, jokes, and gut-punch insights. I appreciated that. It made it feel real. Like a person actually figuring life out, not just repackaging answers.

If you’re near retirement, newly retired, or even just burned out and wondering what’s next, this book will resonate with you. I’d especially recommend it to overachievers, late-career professionals, and anyone secretly dreading what happens after the job ends. This isn’t a how-to. It’s not about finances or hobbies. It’s about getting honest with yourself. About reckoning with who you’ve been, who you might become, and what really matters in the time you have left. For me, it was both a reality check and a relief.

Pages: 264 | ISBN : 979-8-992506-6-8