An exploration of the female mind intended to outline differences between the sexes and improve communication.
Shueibi, who does not provide credentials, takes a patronizing view of women. He likens them to birds and butterflies, generally implying women are not suited for leadership roles. The author’s communication advice for men includes guidance on which days of a woman’s menstrual cycle are most conducive to productive conversation. The text lacks a linear organization or clear focus, and Shueibi often rambles, making the reader question the purpose and validity of his research. The author uses quotes from unnamed women used as a representation of the gender as a whole. He presents his research haphazardly, and his reliance on secondary sources includes offering readers lengthy quizzes taken from other books. Shueibi reviews numerous dubious and cliched topics, including the weaknesses of left-handed people, women’s susceptibility to jealousy, and men’s aptitude for math, mazes and aiming missiles or bombs. Also worrisome are comments about women returning home happier after initially fleeing a beating. In one of two chapters which are critical of women, the author provides a list of characteristics of charismatic people, which begins and ends with being attractive. There is awkward syntax throughout, suggesting an inadequate translation or a need for polishing English-writing skills. As the text draws to a close, a numbered list titled, “How to Deal With the Feminine Mind” offers offensive, condescending advice on communicating with women, including advising the man his loved one is just a woman or asking her to shower after she has spoken in anger. While aiming to demonstrate men’s and women’s differing perspectives, the text does not break new ground.
Lacking in valid scholarship and fails to contribute original, modern advice.
