Swell : A Girl's Guide to the Good Life
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (01 October, 1999)
list price: $23.95 -- our price: $16.29
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Editorial Review

Sure, a swell girl can bring home the bacon and fry it up in a pan, but that's just the beginning. She can also turn a last-minute dinner party into a cabaret, create a push-up bra out of electrical tape, and fix a flat in pumps and a pencil skirt. Move over, Miss Manners, this is advice for the girl on the go.

Billed as a "Girl's Guide to the Good Life," Swell is a lively reference that is both practical and a gas to read. Entries range from hangover cures to transforming junk mail into party invitations to snagging a prime table in a packed restaurant. Need tips on tipping?This book will help you score points with everyone from the shampoo girl to the valet. It will also outline how to hail a cab with a four-finger whistle and gracefully take a seat--in a micromini, no less--without showing more than gams. If that's not enough, the authors even detail how to pack your entire life (or at least the important stuff) into a four-inch lipstick tote.

Cynthia Rowley, a fashion designer, and Ilene Rosenzweig, a style editor for The New York Times, blend imaginative advice with humor and grace without sounding like self-conscious hipsters or society snobs. They couldn't care less where a soup spoon should be placed, but they share exactly what you need to know about wine, gifts, clothing, gambling, and even cigars. They also devote an entire hilarious chapter to the topic of love and its various side effects. Ideal for those on a tight schedule and a shoestring budget, Swell offers proof that living the good life depends more on creativity and attitude than a hefty bankroll. After all, "there are two words that a swell should never utter: 'I'm bored.'" --Shawn Carkonen ... Read more

Reviews (75)

Eh.Cute -- amusing even but a little light on useful info.
The book's authors keep their sassy _sex_in_the_city_ tone throughout, but unless you're a denizon on manhatten, I'm not sure how useful this book can actually be.Maybe I'm not glamourous enough for this book.I suppose it did make me strive for more glamour in my life, but when I set the book down and realized my fully suburban existence, the book came up short with truly translatable wisdom. A cute gift for a gal just leaving college. At 28, I was far too aged for this one.

funny, but are they serious?
This book did make me laugh, but I think a lot of their advice was intended as a joke. Some of it was pretty good, like buying take-out, then adding a few "homemade" touches to pass it off as your own. These girls crack me up. It's a fun read if nothign else. Buy it used, like I did.

a "Swell" ethos with no social conscience
The brilliant and witty ethos of Cynthia Rowley and Ilene Rosenzweig shows creativity and talent. I HAVE BUT ONE CRITICISM...WHAT THE HECK ARE THESE GALS DOING ADVOCATING THE WEARING OF FUR ON CLOTHING???? THEY WILL BE INFLUENCING THE FEMALES OF THE LAND WITH THEIR FEMME FATALLE ADVICE. WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO ESPOUSE THE TREND OF WEARING FUR IN TODAY'S WORLD?IS IT ALL ABOUT THE MONEY????? IS THIS THE WAY OF THE WORLD TODAY?...MAKE A BUCK - DON'T CARE HOW YOU MAKE IT???? Take the "shahtoosh" for instance, that is advocated to wear in place of a coat, as the "in" thing. Unfortunately, the suggestions of wearing the shahtoosh will not help the already "endangered species" from which the shahtoosh will be made, which is the Tibetan antelope. So any of you naysayers out there think that this is just one animal, and who cares??? Well, we should all care about how many species on this planet we endanger or extinct. Why do two brilliantly funny and talented women want to create a market for animal fur adornment on clothing??? ... Read more

Isbn: 0446524565
Subjects:  1. Beauty & Grooming - General    2. Diet / Health / Fitness    3. Life skills guides    4. Personal Growth - Success    5. Psychology    6. Social Science    7. Sociology    8. Sociology - General    9. Teenage girls    10. United States    11. Women    12. Social Science / Sociology / General   

The Way You Wear Your Hat : Frank Sinatra and the Lost Art of Livin'
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (26 November, 1997)
list price: $25.00
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Reviews (23)

A minor biography.
What you get here is a slanted look at Sinatra's life through lots of stories, from lots of people & that's entertaining, but we've heard some of them before. There is some obvious hero worship here by the author, but that seems to be the case with most of the people in Sinatra's life. We learn of his politics,(Democrat) his racial tolerance & hatred of bigotry. Yet he had a conservative, traditional side which he held closely.
There are contradictions to be sure in this talented, complex man. But that the case in all great men. He was always the leader & had to dominate any setting & set the mood.
He was quick to anger but also forgiving, loved his friends & was fiercely loyal & generous.
He was always a professional, giving his best to his fans. They were not cheated when Frank sang. He was his worse critic. Known as a one take artist as far as his movies were concerned, he was never satisfied with his singing, finding minute flaws in his most memorable performances. Sinatra & his closest friends, "the rat pack" if you must, had their own code & language. Sort of like the beatnicks of their time.Despite the obvious talents of Frank, Dino, Sammy etc. they reminded me of aging hep-cats. That is kind of sad. Sad too, is that most of them are gone.

Live each day like it may be the final day...
There have been a lot of books written on Sinatra;but this one is excellent.Where does one start and what does one say?Zehme has zeroed in on what made Sinatra an icon and a one of a kind.Sinatra had a great line for all occasions;and even when there was no occassion,he had a line for that too.
"Fear is the enemy of logic"
"Don't despair.You have to scrape bottom to appreciate life and start living again."
"the big lesson in life ,baby,is never be scared of anyone or anything."
The book is a quick,concise and intrest holding read. The pictures chosen were excellent in portraying Sinatra's personna.
You can't go wrong with this book if you ever liked anything Sinatra said or did.

Life Changing Material
What can I say that hasn't already been said?About 3 or 4 years ago I wasn't doing so well.I was looking for some guidance, some help to define myself and create my own identity.I came across this book on a sales rack and picked it up.I had been a Sinatra fan for awhile, had a few books and some albums.But this, this was something special.You come away from it really knowing who Mr. Sinatra really was.You get to know the man behind the "legend."

Immediatly I began to change the way I was.I began to relax, not worry so much.I changed my wardrobe (For years I had been kind of a bum, really not thinking about my dress) to more of a "classier" one.I became less of a cheapskate and helped any of my friends who needed help.Why?Because that's what Frank did!Not to mention I discovered "his way" to mixing drinks the way with women.

One cannot talk about this book without mentioning the excellent writing of Bill Zehme.He really gets to the soul of the experiences.The writing has the same flair as Sinatra's speech, always hip, always to the point.It's no wonder he has written the liner notes for the live Rat Pack cds.He really "knows" Frank and the boys and shows it.

So read this book.Who knows what could happen?You may come away from it with a new view on life. ... Read more

Isbn: 006018289X
Sales Rank: 137603
Subjects:  1. Anecdotes    2. Biography    3. Biography & Autobiography    4. Biography / Autobiography    5. Biography/Autobiography    6. Composers & Musicians - Pop    7. Entertainment & Performing Arts - Actors & Actresses    8. Entertainment & Performing Arts - General    9. Historical - U.S.    10. History and criticism    11. Popular Music    12. Singers    13. United States    14. Biography & Autobiography / General    15. Sinatra, Frank   

Rat Pack Confidential : Frank, Dean, Sammy, Peter, Joey and the Last Great Show Biz Party
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (20 July, 1999)
list price: $14.95 -- our price: $10.17
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Editorial Review

If you're not inclined to read individual biographies of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr., Shawn Levy's Rat Pack Confidential is a perfect one-stop resource. Less a group biography than a series of impressionistic snapshots, the book is loaded with can't-miss material--the dirt on the making of Ocean's Eleven, information about Sinatra's wild stint as a casino owner, deep background on Peter Lawford's habit of introducing Jack Kennedy to glamorous starlets, wiretap transcripts of mobsters Sam Giancana and Johnny Formosa discussiong Dean Martin's lack of respect.

Levy, whose previous book, King of Comedy, is a serious consideration of Jerry Lewis's life and career, offers similarly well considered insights into the members of the Rat Pack. He covers Davis's lifelong struggle against racism and the complicated intertwinings of the Kennedy political machine and "the Clan," as the performers preferred to be called (they often denied anything like the Rat Pack even existed and resisted collective references).

The book's debts to its predecessors are often apparent; much of the material on Sinatra's friendship with Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, for example, appears to have been gleaned from recent Bogart biographies. The writing style, which tries to capture the ring-a-ding-ding feel of the era, also owes serious debts to Nick Tosches by way of James Ellroy, while only intermittently reaching their level of mastery. But these are minor quibbles. As a synthesis of thirty years worth of journalism and celebrity biography, Rat Pack Confidential succeeds in portraying the supernova blowout of old-school showbiz in all its dazzling glory. ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Better than I expected
I really enjoyed this book, much more than I anticipated. Mr. Levy admits upfront that it is a compilation of other books brought together in one place. His writing style is smooth and effortless, making for a fast read, but you get inside the group and the time really effectively. I knew quite a bit going into the book, but I learned much more, particularly about Sammy and Joey. I recommend it to anyone who is a fan of any of these dudes, or to those who are only curious.

perhaps the Ratpack just weren't as fascinating as they woul
The start of this book was not promising - the brief introductions to the members of the Ratpack - Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford and Joey Bishop - with writing that felt contrived: trying a bit too hard to be edgy and hip. But as the book progresses it improves (or perhaps this reader just got used to it).

In telling the story of a group of entertainers, it inevitably ends up focusing on the most successful - in this case Frank. We learn a lot about his connections to the mob, and the Kennedys, but relatively little about his personal and family life. The other characters are mainly painted in regards to their relations to Frank, and therefore they come across as bit players supporting a single star - perhaps they were.

I learned a lot id dint' previously know - such as Sinatra's relationship with the Kennedys. But ultimately I felt this book was a bit shallow - perhaps the Ratpack just weren't as fascinating as they would have liked to think they were.

Rat Pack
I read this book after seeing the HBO movie `The Rat Pack'. The characters in the movie fascinated me, and, knowing little about Frank, Dean, Sammy, Peter, or Joey, I decided to read this book. It was a wise decision. Levy's writing style, while not particularly original, was fitting, and reflected the hip, laid back attitude of his subjects. Of course the parts about Sinatra were good, Dean Martin seems to be as big of a mystery to Levy as he was to everyone else, and Sammy Davis Jr. comes off as he probably should have: the most talented entertainer in a group of talented entertainers. As for the minor members, Peter Lawford is just [weak], and seems to use and get used by everyone, and Joey Bishop, an overlooked character in the movie, is the glue that holds them all together. This is a wonderful book the truly captures the personality of a bygone era. ... Read more

Isbn: 0385495765
Subjects:  1. Biography    2. Biography & Autobiography    3. Biography/Autobiography    4. Entertainers    5. Entertainment & Performing Arts - General    6. General    7. Pop Arts / Pop Culture    8. Popular Culture - General    9. Reference    10. Singers    11. United States    12. Social Science / Popular Culture   

The Very Best of Frank Sinatra
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (10 June, 1997)
list price: $31.98 -- our price: $25.49
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Editorial Review

A great, comprehensive collection of Sinatra's most popular Reprise tracks, and worth having for any number of reasons, Very Best Of features tons of familiar hits--but requires a caveat for casual Sinatra fans. When Sinatra formed Reprise, he began to re-record many of the sides he'd released on Capitol, in an attempt to transfer his catalog to the new label. It was a smooth move, but his re-recorded versions seldom replaced the originals in the way he'd hoped. And many of the familiar songs here are Capitol remakes. It'd be a task to compare the track listing here with that of the Capitol Years set, but if you want to get serious about your Sinatra, that's the way to go. If you're just a music fan, this is a gem. --Gavin McNett ... Read more

Reviews (64)

Frank Sinatra is awesome
I used to be into rap & heavy metal, but after listening to Sinatra, it seems to me that he is the very essence of pure, beautiful music. This album was my first, and it's great to start out listening to Sinatra with. But I plan to purchase all of his albums sooner or later; this is one artist that will be here forever. I STRONGLY suggest that you purchase this album; I promise you will enjoy it.

My first Sinatra CD and I'm not disappointed
Within the past couple of years, I became interested in Frank Sinatra's music (thanks to the "What Women Want" soundtrack) and followed the recommendations of an Amazon member and bought this album.Being relatively new to Sinatra's singing, other than his more famous hits like "New York, New York" and "Luck Be a Lady", I soon ranked this 2-disc set as one of my favorites.It's gotten a lot of play time and will continue to as long as my disc doesn't wear out!
At first I didn't really care much for the 2nd disc, but as I listened to it more and more, I found that it has some excellent songs included.By now, both discs get equal play, and I choose which disc to listen to by my mood.Disc 1 tends to be more upbeat, while disc 2 tends to be more mellow.
I plan to add more Sinatra music to my collection, however I think this made a great introductory disc to Sinatra's best.And even if I end up with several Sinatra discs, I'll still have a place for this collection of songs.

The Voice
Sinatra is the voice. Everything he sings whether good or bad it's beautiful,because he's Sinatra. No one can touch him no one ever could. Nat King Cole is the only other artist who can sing something and inspire a feeling. Sinatra can take you to a place, that no one else can. He's the best and this is a wonderful collection of some of his most memerable works. Though some of my personal favorites are "They Can't Take That Away From Me", "Under my Skin", and "Last Dance", but this cd does not disappoint. ... Read more

Asin: B000002NFI
Subjects:  1. Ballads    2. Pop    3. Pop Vocals    4. Swing    5. Traditional Pop    6. Vocal    7. Vocal Jazz    8. Vocal Pop   

The Bad Girl's Guide to Getting What You Want
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 October, 2000)
list price: $14.95 -- our price: $10.47
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Editorial Review

Deep down, every woman wants to be a Bad Girl. But after living a life of sweetness and light, it's sometimes difficult to stray from the path. Cameron Tuttle (author of the riotously funny Bad Girl's Guide to the Open Road) points the way in The Bad Girl's Guide to Getting What You Want. Tuttle offers up tips to help even the saintliest soul find her inner Bad Girl--and then use that power to get better dates (date yourself for a while first, until you're ready to dive in the dating pool); a better job (don't just settle for job satisfaction, aim for "job jubilation, job nirvana, job titillation"); and better parking (pray to Gladys, the universal parking goddess). With its sassy, iced-lavender cover--just the right size to slip into your purse--the Guide is jam-packed with practical and not-so-practical-but-funny advice, including excellent answers to one of life's most pressing questions: What do you do with old bridesmaid dresses? "Drench with ketchup and dress up as Carrie for Halloween"; "Sew into board bags for your snowboard and surfboard"; and, best of all, "Make your bridesmaids wear them in your wedding." Remember: it's great to be a girl, but it's even better to be a Bad Girl. --Sunny "Bad Girl" Delaney ... Read more

Reviews (73)

I got genital herpes after reading this book
Well, the subject of my review is a lie, but I do think that this book focuses too much on sex.What this book is really about is power.However, are you a powerful woman if you sleep with every Tom, Dick, and Harry?

Other than that, there are some great tips in here, but don't take everything seriously.My favorite parts (which YES I have actually used) are getting free drinks, getting a date by just going up to someone and kissing them.(That was after those free drinks, though.)The one that I haven't used but would like to is to act like a diva during a job interview.It sounds fun.Anyways ladies, bottom line is that this is a great GRRRRLL POWER book, but don't take everything seriously.

Loved it
I adored this book! I passed it around to all of my friends and the all enjoyed it immensely. Great writing, very funny. Worth my time,worth yours.

There's a hour of my life I can't get back.
I wasn't expecting "Catcher in the Rye", just a few laughs.I was very disappointed.It wasn't funny at all.Keep your money, but if you really want to buy it, buy mine. ... Read more

Isbn: 0811828964
Subjects:  1. Conduct of life    2. General    3. Life skills guides    4. Miscellanea    5. Personal Growth - Success    6. Psychology    7. Self-Help    8. Women   

Hoffritz 16-Ounce Chrome Cocktail Shaker
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $33.99 -- our price: $19.99
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Editorial Review

From your mai tai to your martini, make traditional cocktails at home with this 16-ounce cocktail shaker. With a precision fit between the top and bottom, this bar accessory gives you the freedom to shake away with no fear of leaks. Use the shaker top to measure your spirits and liqueurs to precise quantities. Part of the Hoffritz Platinum Series, this shaker offers expert craftsmanship and high-nickel-content steel (18/8), providing a rust-free and durable product. --Madeleine Miller ... Read more

Features

• For each purchase of this item, $1.25 is donated to Share Our Strength
• Create bar-style cocktails at home
• Shaker lid doubles as a standard 2-ounce shot glass
• Made of 18/8 stainless steel
• Dishwasher-safe

Reviews (8)

Looks nice but I wish I had bought a different one
I bought this based upon the reviews that said it didn't leak. They are wrong. I have used it three times and it leaks when you shake it. If I had bought it at Target, it would be returned. Kohls has one with a gasket. I would buy that one.

Stylish but Lacking in Functionality
I got this thing out of the box and was really impressed with it's looks but the fun stopped there.While I was checking my nice little chrome shaker out I tilted it to the side and the top proceeded to fall off.Worried, I put some ice and a bit of simulated gin (H20) inside, gave it a few shakes and it leaked everywhere.Good thing this wasnt real gin! I dont know if this is just mine but I wasnt impressed with the the functionality.Going with Oneida.

Elegant in its Simplicity
This shaker will bring out the dashing martini or margarita drinker in just about anyone.Looking to impress chicks with your suave mastery of the bar - this will do the trick. Looks great, chills drinks, and of course goes well with cool glassware (invest in Martini glasses or margarita glasses).You don't have to worry about spillage and the built in strainer makes any drink easy. Now if I just had a cool tray to put all of this stuff on. Seriously though, it's a great addition and will make you more likely to tinker with what's in your bar, as opposed to reaching for yet another beer. ... Read more

Asin: B00004RHNL
Subjects:  1. Spirits    2. Martinis    3. Cocktail Shakers    4. Barware    5. (Bar Ware)    6. Bartending   

Hoffritz 6-Piece Stainless-Steel Bar Tool Set with Rack
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $48.99 -- our price: $34.99
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Editorial Review

Hoffritz's gorgeous bar set includes all standard barware: strainer, tongs, mixing spoon, bottle opener, and double jigger. And the stainless-steel stand is the perfect showcase for these nifty little gadgets. Wide, flat handles on the strainer and opener are comfortable, and the round end of the mixing spoon is ideal for a variety of uses. Every piece is dishwasher-safe and will bring a little "rat pack" glamour to your entertaining--even if the drinks are mixed on the kitchen counter. --Jill Lightner ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime warranty
• Includes double jigger, ice tongs, mixing spoon, bottle opener, strainer, and stand
• 18/8 brushed stainless steel
• Wide strainer and opener handles
• Made in China

Reviews (5)

Looks and feels cheap
This set of tiny tools is a rip-off. It looks and feels cheap with all the handles made of cheap plastic. You can clearly see the bumps on both sides of the jigger. That shows you the craftsmanship, or lack of it to be correct. I guess the formula now is to give a fancy european name to a lousy product and put it on the Internet with a hefty price. Buyers have no idea of its actual size just by looking at the picture. Also few people want to go through the hassle to return stuff purchased online. Stay away, you have been warned.

Earth-Shatteringly Good!
When I first read reviews of the Hoffritz Six-Piece Stainless-Steel Bar Tool Set in Modern Drunkard Magazine, I wrote them off as market-insider over-hype. I simply could not believe that this bar set could do everything the MDM editors claimed. In fact, I couldn't think of any advantages a professional bar tool set could offer over my trusty old collection of mason jars and Lil' Abner shot glasses.

But boy oh boy, was I in for a surprise when my ex-girlfriend gave me the Hoffritz for our last anniversary (literally, our *last* anniversary). The kit came with a stainless steel shaking apparatus. For shaking cocktails! I'd always thought that was just a turn of phrase (you know, like "on the rocks" doesn't really involve rocks). But now I'm shaking all my vodka and I feel as smooth as James Bond. Not only that, but the whisk-type thing is handy for beating eggs, regardless of whether you like to fry them with bacon or pour them into your beer! Three cheers to Hoffritz, the choice of the discerning conoissiour.

For the part time bartender...
This small gift is perfect for that friend that enjoys hosting the weekend get-togethers.While it doesn't have everything one might ever need to make those specialty drinks, it does offer the basic bar tools in a simple and classy stainless steel finish.I would recommend this gift for all casual occasions or as a nice addition to your own beverage accessory lineup ... Read more

Asin: B00004RHMZ
Subjects:  1. Spirits    2. Cocktails    3. Bar Sets    4. Barware    5. (Bar Ware)    6. Bartending   

Three Black Skirts : All You Need To Survive
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (01 October, 2000)
list price: $22.95
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Reviews (72)

Fabulous!
I love the humorous & light hearted way in which this book was written. It's very informative & is perfect for those in their twenties who are just starting out. It gives you advice on everything from the light hearted to the very serious. What would I do without this book?

Doesn't live up to expectations
After reading the reviews that others left, I excitedly ordered this book & then impatiently waited for it to arrive.I dug in as soon as I got the package opened, but I was sorely disappointed when I read through it.To me, it was a very shallow book with very little of substance to it.I was looking for something that would truly be helpful to me in choosing clothing for my job, in getting relationship advice, in knowing how to be a success in my 20's........all I can say is that I am disappointed in myself for believing the reviews--that these things could be found in this book.I'd recommend checking it out of your local public library for free before buying it.That way, if you end up not liking it, you won't have wasted money on it like I did.

The most beloved book of a bookworm
I was given this book in my last year of college, which is exactly when I needed it most. She's wise, and funny, and gave me hope that my wildly out of control life could be calm and interesting and together.. mostly by giving me the advice that I needed to get going. It's been a couple of years, and I'm considering ordering the book in bulk for christmas presents. It might keep my sister from stealing mine. Having this is a lot like having a fascinating friend who's just lived through her twenties, and gives funny advice about it. She taught me how to unplug a drain, what should be in my toolbox (and reminded me to get hands on about decorating, instead of just shopping) got me started on a great wardrobe (which was really helpful when I started my career), showed me that even really disorganized people can get their finances together.. and work life, social life & even love life. In most ways, she's obviously not trying to write an exhaustive manual, and will tell you how to find really good books that do focus on one topic, such as Suze Orman's great books on finances. However, some of the advice she gives can't be found in any other books I've read. The advice on friendship, and learning to live happily on your own is obviously hard won, and she handles both with the care and thoughtfulness they each deserve. Give this as a gift to your favorite young woman, especially if that's yourself. ... Read more

Isbn: 0761122362
Sales Rank: 432875
Subjects:  1. Conduct of life    2. General    3. Life skills guides    4. Personal Growth - Self-Esteem    5. Psychology    6. Self-Help    7. Self-esteem in women    8. Women    9. Self-Help / Self-Esteem   

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Personal Finance in Your 20s And 30s
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (19 March, 1999)
list price: $18.95
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Reviews (7)

not useful for a college student
I am still in college (and after that will be in grad school) and was looking for a book that would cover things like "becoming financially independent from one's parents while still in school", but this book assumed that the reader was out of college and in the work force.

Good foundation for learning money managementskills
As a member of Gen-X with absolutely no personal financial management skills, I was delighted to find this book. Despite being a reasonably intelligent person, I didn't know how to budget or balance my checkbook, much less tell the difference between an IRA and a mutual fund. Personal Finance turned out to be an invaluable resource. It explains things clearly and concisely, and has information from the most basic topics (like budgeting) to purchasing homes and building retirement funds. I'd be lost and much worse off financially without this book.

However, there is one fundamental flaw: while the book's target market are those in their 20's and 30's, oftentimes the book comes across as meant for a much younger audience, and manages to be extraordinarily condescending and trite as a result. Especially in the beginning chapters, the tone often slips from being impartially informative to a desperate and misplaced effort to be "cool." Fisher and Shelly would have done much better to leave the outdated jargon and simplistic metaphors out.

Overall, this book is a valuable resource for the financially incompetent. It takes a little to get past the juvenile references, but once you do, it proves to be a great starting point for learning how to manage your money.

A good guide to personal finance
Fisher and Shelly have written a great guide to personal finance, covering bank accounts (and how not all banks are the same), credit cards, renting a home, getting a car, savings, budgets, savings, investments, taxes, insurace, retirement, financial advisors, and buying a home.While it talks about a lot, the authors consistently try to use simple and easy-to-understand examples and lots of examples.

Some of the topics I felt didn't relate to me at this time (e.g. buying a house), so I either skimmed them or skipped them.What's great about this book is that you can just pick and choose what you want to know about.I recommend the chapters on bugeting, investments, savings, and credit cards.Some of the chapters overwhelmed me (e.g. those on investments and mortgages) but I did learn the basics.And if I forgot what some things were, I could easily look at the glossary or skim through the chapter again.

The book also includes useful websites, books, magazines, and periodicals.

The main point that Fisher and Shelly focus on is that it is never too late (or too early) to learn about personal finance and that while you should live your life, you should also worry about the future.They don't tell you what to do and try to give the pros and cons for different options (e.g. of mutual funds, stocks, and bonds).

You should definitely read this book... Let it be the start of your journey to a better financial future, but not the end. ... Read more

Isbn: 0028624157
Sales Rank: 513167
Subjects:  1. Business & Economics    2. Business / Economics / Finance    3. Finance    4. Finance, Personal    5. Generation X    6. Investments    7. Personal Finance    8. Personal Finance - General    9. United States    10. Business & Economics / General   

The Rules(TM) : Time-Tested Secrets for Capturing the Heart of Mr. Right
Average Customer Review:
Mass Market Paperback (01 February, 1996)
list price: $6.99 -- our price: $6.29
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Editorial Review

An unexpected bestseller, this self-help book for women who want to hook a man seems to have struck a chord with desperate American women. Fein and Schneider, whose main credentials seem to be that they are married, lay out the rules to be followed for successfully snagging a dream hunk. And these rules are hard as cast-iron--Rule Five: Don't Call Him and Rarely Return His Calls. The idea is to return to pre-feminist mind games, exploiting the male hunting urge by playing hard to get. The result seems unliberating--Rule Seventeen: Let Him Take the Lead--but it seems to be capturing female minds. Rules Girls are eyeing the phone with steely resolve, and Rules seminars are springing up nationwide. Curious bachelors have been observed studying The Rules, some frowning, others with the supercilious smile of the hunter. ... Read more

Reviews (461)

Mixed reaction
I recently broke up with an alpha male, and there is no question that he responds to most of the games described in this book, which I am about half-way through. But he is emotionally ambivalent, very dominant and he likes challenges.

Some of the rules are really stupid. Grow your hair long because men like it? Please. I look lousy in long hair. And somehow I don't think Annette Bening has trouble keeping Warren Beatty interested. Her hair is incredibly short, yet she is stunning.

Not returning phone calls? That can certainly be construed as rude, and I am sure many women misunderstand how to use this one to their advantage. I know plenty of men who won't call again if a woman doesn't respond to them. I think that what really underlies this rule is that no one, male or female, is attracted to a person who seems desperate and overeager. We all like confident, relaxed people.So I would certainly return a call, just not immediately.

The bottom line for me on this book is that it really advocates self-confidence and self-respect and then tries to quantify those qualities in particular actions. If you are truly sure of yourself and are leading a full life, then you will act accordingly. If you are insecure and need guidance, you may or may not be successful with these rules. And if you are just a bitch, well, then your true colors will show themselves, too.

So-So, but....
there's a better choice, in my opinion, for this information. I like the fact that The Rules advocates moving into an intimate relationship slowly but there are a couple of things that I think are rude. Such as not returning phone calls. I found it to be a bit harsh in places.
As a result, I enthusiatically recommend What Southern Women Women Know About Flirting. It has good, solid advice but is always rooted in manners and courtesy. In addition to showing how to strategically play the game of love, it gives excellent advice on how to make yourself more appealing to others such as becoming a good storyteller and learning to talk about sports.
I'm not a Southern woman but I love the way they think. And, I'm all for a gentle approach to capturing the man of your choice.

This book is a first attempt at defining love and dating.
This book has many positive aspects.But, I wouldn't recommend it to alot of people.It will protect you from making alot of dating mistakes.But, the book is juvenile in the sense that it emphasizes too much American dating values, which the rest of the world may have trouble swallowing.

This book needs some work.But, it is a first good step towards a better and more fulfilling love life.I would say that this book is old-fashioned in a good way.It's not always good to focus girls on marriage when there are other alternatives. ... Read more

Isbn: 0446602744
Subjects:  1. Family & Relationships    2. Love & Romance    3. Love / Sex / Marriage    4. Marriage    5. Self-Help    6. Family & Relationships / Love & Romance