| As the title suggests, this impressive hardcover book
is the 17th edition of the famous Emily Post's guide to manners.
It covers almost any social situation you can imagine and is handily
divided by general topics, using a very attractive dictionary-style
edging. This makes it perfect for a fast reference when you're
invited to a wedding and wonder about wearing that white pantsuit you've
just bought [go ahead as long it won't distract from the bride], or are
rushing out to a dinner at friends and wonder how to eat corn on the cob
or escargots in a social situation [very carefully, but there's more
specifics in the book].
This book covers everything from both perspectives -- the person
planning the social event and the person attending. It also has
chapters on everyday etiquette, relationships, children, communication,
jobs and travel.
In critiquing the content, I must admit that most of the information
in this book is common sense and basic courtesy. But there were
many situations that I've either never come across or were curious about
and I was surprised to find that Ms. Post knows an awful lot more than I do
about these things. Her advice is timely, having been updated to
incorporate modern day but still maintain the original Emily Posts
philosophy on etiquette.
One chapter in particular is of interest to brides and their
families. A large chapter is dedicated to every possible social
interaction including disapproving parents, parties, children, music,
invitations etc. Granted, everyone wants their own wedding, but if
you're concerned about not insulting anyone, this chapter in particular
can clear up your questions in a simple, straight forward manner.
If you're looking for a comprehensive guide that's well written, well
organized and is interesting reading just for fun, this manual will make
a good addition to your home library. Having read most of the
book, I still find myself going back to check on things, and find that
visitors to my home library find it equally as interesting.
Reviewed by Sue Waldeck for The Road to Romance
July 24, 2005 |
