A self-help guide explores how to find the right partner for a long-term relationship, regardless of age, persuasion, or circumstance.
This debut book by McCoy, a Massachusetts life coach, aims to assist those in search of a loving relationship who find the prospect of dating intimidating or discouraging. The book is divided into five chapters, each of which focuses on a simple premise, such as “Find Your Motivation” and “Screw The Date: Just Relate.” Deliberately avoiding an emphasis on seduction and game playing, the volume places a greater weight on self-knowledge and self-confidence. The opening sections strongly stress putting oneself in the right frame of mind to be open to and excited about dating, often a hurdle in itself. Throughout, the author highlights the importance of approaching relationships with an open mind, encouraging readers to dispense with preconceived notions of their ideal mates and instead shift their focus to character and rapport. For the introverted or gun-shy, the book is also peppered with clever alternatives to traditional dinner dates and online matchmaking services. Later sections encourage reflection on past or unsuccessful affairs as learning experiences, tools to bring one closer to a more suitable pairing. The ideas put forth in each chapter are supported by anecdotal accounts of real-life couples who successfully put these concepts into action in their own relationships. The candid work concludes with a concise summary of the ideas and advice outlined previously. The guide benefits from McCoy’s approachable, nonjudgmental writing style and in its ability to break down an unnerving process into small, manageable steps. While male/female pairings are the primary emphasis, the inclusion of LGBT and open relationships is notable and worthwhile. Throughout, the book takes a low-pressure approach, encouraging readers to take things at their own pace and enjoy the ride. Refreshingly, it makes getting back into the dating world seem like an exhilarating opportunity rather than a scary obligation.
A plainspoken, handy volume for anyone looking for love but daunted by dating.Pub Date: Feb. 6, 2016
ISBN: 978-0-9972294-0-0
Page Count: 206
Publisher: Merlin Coaching
Review Posted Online: July 14, 2016
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 2016
Review Program: Kirkus Indie
Categories: GENERAL NONFICTION
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This is not the Nutcracker sweet, as passed on by Tchaikovsky and Marius Petipa. No, this is the original Hoffmann tale of 1816, in which the froth of Christmas revelry occasionally parts to let the dark underside of childhood fantasies and fears peek through. The boundaries between dream and reality fade, just as Godfather Drosselmeier, the Nutcracker's creator, is seen as alternately sinister and jolly. And Italian artist Roberto Innocenti gives an errily realistic air to Marie's dreams, in richly detailed illustrations touched by a mysterious light. A beautiful version of this classic tale, which will captivate adults and children alike. (Nutcracker; $35.00; Oct. 28, 1996; 136 pp.; 0-15-100227-4)
Pub Date: Oct. 28, 1996
ISBN: 0-15-100227-4
Page Count: 136
Publisher: Harcourt
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 1996
Categories: GENERAL NONFICTION
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BOOK REVIEW
BOOK REVIEW
An extravaganza in Bemelmans' inimitable vein, but written almost dead pan, with sly, amusing, sometimes biting undertones, breaking through. For Bemelmans was "the man who came to cocktails". And his hostess was Lady Mendl (Elsie de Wolfe), arbiter of American decorating taste over a generation. Lady Mendl was an incredible person,- self-made in proper American tradition on the one hand, for she had been haunted by the poverty of her childhood, and the years of struggle up from its ugliness,- until she became synonymous with the exotic, exquisite, worshipper at beauty's whrine. Bemelmans draws a portrait in extremes, through apt descriptions, through hilarious anecdote, through surprisingly sympathetic and understanding bits of appreciation. The scene shifts from Hollywood to the home she loved the best in Versailles. One meets in passing a vast roster of famous figures of the international and artistic set. And always one feels Bemelmans, slightly offstage, observing, recording, commenting, illustrated.
Pub Date: Feb. 23, 1955
ISBN: 0670717797
Page Count: -
Publisher: Viking
Review Posted Online: Oct. 25, 2011
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 1955
Categories: GENERAL NONFICTION
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