Dating Book List

Think Like a Guy: How to Get a Guy by Thinking Like One Author: Giuliana DePandiVery pleasedI thought the book was written very well, very easy to understand. It was not too long and very much to the point. DON'T start dating until you have read this FIRST!!!!!I am like you...I'm a great catch, but I'm still single!!! So, I did some self-analysis recently, and with the help of my brother I started to see the light on what I was doing wrong. Basically, I had to STOP thinking like a GIRL and start thinking like a GUY.

THIS book spells it out for you in a simple format and basic rules to go by. Men, for years, have had this hold over us, they seem to have the upper-hand....well, this book tells you how to get that position back! And it's REEALLY simple. I even ran the "rules" by my brother, and with a chuckle, he agreed to every one of them!

I'm still single, but the guys I'm dating now are dating me because, as they say, I'm SOOO different from all the other girls out there. Thank you Giuliana for pointing out what women have been doing wrong for so many years, and ladies, you will feel empowered again once you read this book! As Awful as She IsWhat a terrible waste of time and money. This relatively short book is separated into `chapters' telling women how to be more like men - for example: sleep with a guy and leave right after, don't call, lie about your sexual experience, pretend to be busier than you are, order in and pretend you made the food, etc. The `chapters' were each about a page, some even less, because there is clearly no substance behind the writing. Depandi is annoying on tv, and she's even more annoying in the book - from the outset she tells you to look elsewhere if you want a more `edcuated' read. She uses trailer-trash language throughout the pages and doesn't show herself to be either smart or a very good writer. Additionally, she paints herself as a promiscuous woman by constantly making references to her many boyfriends and experiences. Where did the content for the book come from? From her many experiences with men,, so she says. It's obvious why she went through so many men - no decent guy would put up with her and the games she's playing for very long. Her `methods' are ridiculous and will make you a liar from the outset of the relationship. Zero stars. more...


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Romiette and Julio Author: Sharon M. DraperRomiette and JulioI think Romiette and Julio is just another version of Romeo and Juliet so that's why I give them the rating they deserve a ONE! When they had Romeo and Juliet they killed both of the characters and the person that made this book just made them slightly different by changing their names that really sucks about that book. This book really sucks and we need more than stupid stuff about the same thing we heard by:

This
Book
Need
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Good for a laughAfter reading this book, I decided to look at the reviews to see what people had to say about it. I expected to find some funny insults and maybe some inconsistencies that I hadn't caught while reading it. I was wrong. I found mostly reviews written by 10 year olds and reviews that were obviously written by english teachers. I'm only going to say it this bluntly once, listen up:

This.
Book.
Sucks.

Sorry if you disagree but it does. A plot thats basically Romio and Juliet with a happy ending, and an author who tries way to hard (and fails) to make it seem modern. I wonder what her thought process was..."hmmm....I KNOW! I'LL MAKE A CHARACTER BLACK AND A CHARACTER HISPANIC! THAT'S MODERN! AND WHILE I'M AT IT, I'LL JUST TAKE THE NAMES OF THE CHARACTERS IN THE ORIGINAL BOOK AND CHANGE THEM SLIGHTLY!!!". Just pure laziness. And as if someone could really be stupid enough to NOT see that this was a ripoff, the characters in the book even say so for you. A few times. Like the time one of them says "have you noticed are names are like Romio and Juliet? I wonder if we'll end up the same". I wish you did. Also, someone really needs to tell the author that "gangbangers" are not gang members. And that I've never heard the phrase "Don't take a dump in my cornflakes" before. Although I use it every chance I get now, just because it's so stupid. Oh, and everyone I know and me hate chat rooms. And seeing how I'm someone the age this book's characters are, and I'm living in the same time period, I think that just goes to show you how inaccurate it is.

P.S.- I actually had someone tell me that the name switching thing was clever and intelligent.

P.S.S.- He was serious.I tried hard to like this book...I really tried to like this book because I enjoyed "Tears of a Tiger." The author once again used dialogue to convey her story, but this time moreso in a journal/chatroom session instead of conversation. Some people hate that type of thing, but I'm such a big fan of dialogue that I like it. But this story was utterly corny and it may have been somewhat my fault. I knew that the story was somewhat like Romeo and Juliet and I hated that story too. But I was hoping that Draper was going to put some edge on it, by adding gangs, interracial relationships, an urban setting, and a guy with multicolor hair.
But even with all this creativity she used, there were so many parts that were overwhelmingly unrealistic. One boy hits another one in the nose hard enough for it to turn blue but in a few seconds, befriends the person who hits them. Two people in a chatroom just so happen to be not only in the same state, same city, and same neighborhood, but go to the same school too. Now this IS a small world and that can happen, but a 16-year-old who happens to have a flower and carries hot sauce to woo some girl he doesn't know, I just can't see.
The instant connection they have is pretty cool, but they go from being cool and thinking each other are cute to talking about how they'll give their lives for each other. Then there are these random zodiac/astrology/remedies for love thrown in by another character. The dialogue was alright at first. "Peaceout" was actually popular when this book was written so although out of date now, readers have to consider the copyright date, although I think it was meant to be two words. But some of the vocabulary was just way too out there and teenagers don't talk like that. I felt like the author was CONSTANTLY reminding me that one character was Mexican by throwing in random Spanish words in a predominantly English conversation. I wouldn't even call it Spanglish because the words were so basic, like "hola" or "chico." Even when Julio talks to his friend, there is nothing that gives me a connection that they share the same heritage. I don't know if the author didn't go so far as to do that because she didn't want to shy off non-Spanish speakers, but if that's the case, don't put it in there at all. And the hot sauce thing was killing me. This boy carried hot sauce wherever he went and I went to a high school that was about 45% Latino. I never saw one Mexican, Puerto Rican, Guatemalan, Brazilian, etc. person carry around hot sauce. That was about as stereotypical as saying a black guy carried around a gold chain.
It was strange reading this book because in "Tears for a Tiger," the author was dead-on, so either she did some serious research afterwards or forgot it before. I got to page 145 and donated this book to my nearby library. After reading "Tears for a Tiger," I bought ALL of her other books, and I'm hoping I didn't make a mistake by doing so. We'll see with my next read. more...


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The It Girl Author: Cecily von Ziegesargreat new chic litIn Cecily von Ziegesar's new series, Gossip Girl character Jenny Humphrey leaves Manhattan to attend boarding school at the elite Waverly Academy in upstate New York. Jenny is determined to start completely over from who she was at Constance Billard, and create a new, cool, chic persona. Jenny knows she's up for a challenge when her new roomates are the best friends of the former Waverly Academy It Girl, but she's up for it. Nothing can deter her from her path to being elevated to It Girl status. Not her roomates, not the Disciplinary Committe, nothing. This book gives insight into a new side of Jenny Gossip Girl readers had not been previously privy to, and serves up a whole new set of scandals, intrigue, and gossip. Fans of Gossip Girl will love this new read, but it is not neccessary to have read it to enjoy The It Girl. 'The It Girl' is, without a doubt, the must-have accessory of the seasonSophomore Jenny Humphrey is finally vacating the city, as well as the illustrious Constance Billard, and heading to the countryside to attend the prestigious Waverly Academy. While it may just be a stone's throw away from the bright lights of Times Square, Jenny knows that it's a place where she can finally reinvent herself, and create a name she feels is worthy. A place where she can become...an It Girl. As soon as she arrives on campus, everything feels different, from the horsey smells, to the lone owls flying around, Jenny feels as if she has arrived, and intends on embracing the goddess she truly is. Now all she needs is a proper boy toy to worship her. But when Jenny encounters her two uber-rich, self-absorbed roommates - Callie Vernon and Brett Messerschmidt - Jenny begins having second thoughts. After all, those two are only ready to lend a helping hand if something's in it for them. And increasing Jenny's popularity doesn't likely hold a very high place on their to-do list. Surrounded by gorgeous girls, and even more gorgeous guys, Jenny knows that she's in the right place, now she just has to find the ability to stay there. And, if taking the fall for someone else, getting caught with "off-limit" boys in "off-limit" areas, and going up against the Disciplinary Committee all in the first week of classes is what it takes, then Jenny's all for it. After all, there's nothing that she wouldn't do to become...an It Girl.

I will admit that I only read the first three GOSSIP GIRL novels before stumbling upon THE IT GIRL series, but I can honestly say that this has got to be one of the juiciest, most riveting spin-offs I've ever laid my hands on. Cecily von Ziegesar has finally made little Jenny Humphrey the star of her own series, and has added handfuls of other memorable characters to accompany her on her many, often risque, excursions. Jenny, as in the GOSSIP GIRLS series, continues on her way of adorableness laced with a "Lolita"-esque personality that drives the guys wild; while the possibly eating disorder plagued Callie; and teacher-loving Brett add even more scandalous-ness to the mix. Throw in a few cute guys - the rugged bad-boy, Easy; the metro, caring ex-boyfriend, Brandon; the playboy Heath; and various others, and you've got yourself an irresistible combination. Ziegesar has created another unstoppable, drool-worthy series that is impossible to put down. THE IT GIRL is, without a doubt, the must-have accessory of the season.

Erika Sorocco
Freelance Reviewerit girltheis is a greatttt book i read 1-5 in clique and 1-9 in gossip girl in 10 days, im a quick reader wat can i say? this book took a bit longer because it was harder to get into. but it was the bomb! more...


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Mars and Venus on a Date: A Guide for Navigating the 5 Stages of Dating to Create a Loving & Lasting Relationship Author: John GrayThe latest tentacle of John Gray's formidable Mars and Venus octopus deals with a topic near to the heart of almost everybody--dating. With a lot of insight and common sense, Gray tackles the hard and often messy business of finding "a soul mate." Without fear or favor, Mars and Venus on a Date dissects the dynamics between men and women and the five stages each relationship must pass through: attraction, uncertainty, exclusivity, intimacy, and, finally, engagement (for marriage, of course). Even though Mars and Venus on a Date isn't The Rules by a long shot, the courtship it describes is surprisingly old-fashioned. It's chock-full of things your mother might say: "Most people find or are found by their soul mates when they are not really looking." "The man should never talk more than the woman." But how to know if the person you're with is your "soul mate?" Gray writes, "When our soul wants to marry our partner, it feels like a promise that we came into this world to keep." Which translates into, "When you know, you know."A time honored classicI am a Mars Venus Counselor in the Boston area. I teach it, I know it, I love it, but the real story is that people who have read this and other Mars Venus books find amazing relevancy in John Gray's ability to share his wisdom. In Mars & Venus on a Date, you have established guidelines that WILL help you to be successful. Enjoy!Another "I wish I would have read this earlier in life!" bookWhether you are new to dating, widowed or divorced and starting to date again, or in your 50th year of marriage - you will be able to gleam something from this book that will impact your life in a positive way.

Ideally - you could read this book before you embark upon the "dating chapter" of your life. But, even if you're not new to dating, this book can make an amazing and positive impact in many ways - it can increase your chances of finding the right person, reduce your chances of being hurt by or hurting someone (emotionally) during the dating process, and help you avoid scaring away someone with whom, otherwise, you could end up having a wonderful relationship.

I especially recommend this to women who are in a relationship (or, who are thinking that they "thought they were") with a man who seems to have changed all of a sudden. If you are questioning things like, where did he go? why didn't he call? why does he seem so distant now? what did I do wrong? - you are possibly at a point in the relationship where your choice of actions can make or break a relationship that might just be on the edge of going somewhere. And, likewise, I recommend this to men who feel that they've come to a point in their relationship where they all of a sudden "aren't sure" anymore, are feeling anxious or maybe even "trapped", and at the same time there is a strong need to just get away and think and/or if the woman you are dating seems to have become more insecure, worries more, questions you more, starts pressuring you more about commitment, etc. All of these situations, emotions, etc. are explained in this book. You're not the only one - it's a normal part of dating - but, unfortunately, most of us won't possibly be able to understand this without someone else pointing it out to us - like Gray has done in this book.

Even if you are married - this book opens your eyes to many things and can really improve your level of understanding with your wife/husband.

If you are the perfect mate in a perfect relationship - you may not realize some of the problems other people experience and therefore, could probably benefit from this book by being able to better identify with friends, family, children when they come to you for advice.Surprisingly goodI ignored John Gray and his Mars-Venus venture for over a decade because I just could not relate to it. In fact, I thought it was stupid. But one day, he won me over. His approach toward love, relationships, and in this book, dating, is so strangely refreshing. Among a sea of dating books advocating game-playing and settling, Gray emphasizes love and finding one's soul mate. In this book, he explains the 5 stages of dating and how going through these stages provides the setting for recognizing when you've found your soul mate. He also explains the different kinds of attraction (physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual) and how they happen in a different order for men and women.

And Gray is able to address several dating mysteries with much more depth than most, including:

- Why men can be highly interested and then disappear
- Why some women give too much
- How to deal with a commitmentphobe
- Why men stop calling
- When men should pay and when women should start paying
- Why some people get dumped more than others

This is one of the best dating books I have ever read. I recommend it for anyone interested in finding their soul mate.

P.S. For those of you who squirm at the male-female stuff, I understand. But when you see how Gray's point of view can work in your favor, you may change your mind like I did! more...


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Surrendered Single: A Practical Guide to Attracting and Marrying the Man Who's Right for You Author: Laura DoyleCast your fears aside, ladies: in this case, "surrendered" doesn't mean "doormat"--which is not to say that The Surrendered Single might not raise a few eyebrows. Laura Doyle (The Surrendered Wife) has some pretty insistent basics for women on the dating circuit that may not always sit well with modern feminists. Don't ask him out? Throw out your mental checklist of what you want from a mate? Smile openly at every man you pass on the street? Expect that he'll pay for dinner?

Yep. And according to those who have already surrendered, this old-school stuff works. The book is easy to read; entertaining dating stories are mixed with lots of bullet-pointed lists focused on self-esteem ("good self care is attractive") and myth debunking ("no one respects flirtatious women") that range from truly helpful to slightly simplistic.

Following Doyle's techniques may require a fair amount of modification on your part, but her ideas are aimed at opening yourself up to a loving, stable relationship, rather than simply angling for that ring on your finger from whatever deer you've caught in your matrimonial headlights. If you think it's time to implement some changes in your dating routine, you may find just what you need by "surrendering." --Jill Lightner Love is Attracted in ... not PromotedThis will explain why online dating, matchmaking, speed dating are helpful outlets to meet someone new who may be a great match ... but often times you end up just making a new friend. Love is attracted in is a different concept compared to more "go out there" methods but worth a try if the later hasn't really worked. A kind Christian approach of love being an inside out job.Not what you think!I know that I, personally, being a Christian, thought that because of the title 'Surrendered Single', that this book was religiously based. However, it is not, just for those of you who are wondering! 'Surrendered Single' was an interesting read, and it brings up some valid points. I don't agree with all of them but overall it was a decent book.The Best Book I've Read on Both Getting Dates and Finding the OneI just finished reading this last night. I've read MEN ARE FROM MARS, GETTING THE LOVE YOU WANT, THE RULES, THE REAL RULES, STOP BEING THE STRING ALONG and HE'S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU. I found all of these books really good, no complaints. I found this book, THE SURRENDERED SINGLE to be the best and my favorite. It gives you so much practical advice that you can start using right now as well as advice for the future at every step of dating, choosing or letting go, committed relationships, and into and through marriage. It was very fast reading for me because it was so interesting and I liked that she gave both positive and negative examples of the experiences of women that she treated, as well as her own life and love experiences. It's already been helping me and I've made little adjustments just in replying and responding to certain situations and that has brought huge, good results in connecting and romance! more...


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Gossip Girl: The Second Collection (Gossip Girl) Author: Cecily von ZiegesarI Loved It!I have read the whole series and i loved it! These books are full of glamour, jealousy, betrayal, and as the plot unfolds, you learn more and more about each character, their good side, and the side of the diva everyone envies, that no one else sees.
I would recomend this to any teen or adult who follows fashion and style, and anyone who loves a little romance, knows how hard it is to be accepted and once you are, how hard it is to stay there(so much betrayal!!)and finally, loves Gossip, even if it's not about people you know.Loved the First ones but not for me!!!!I loved the first book and the second one but I couldnt get into the other books i still enjoyed the books though.I also have the boxed set of the second collection to anyone who is intrested in purchasing it.I Couldn't Put It Down!I absolutely love this book! when i picked the first one up i couldnt put them down untill i finished the series...A world full of gossip with New York City's rich and glamourous{most of them anyways} High School Students, its full of jealousy, betrayal, cattyness, glamour and designer labels! you barely ever know what will happen next until you get there of course. more...


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The Dirt on Dating: A Dateable Book (Dirt Series) Author: Hayley Morgannot like other dating booksIf you're worried, wonder or even asking questions about dating than this book is for you. If you're christian or not this book has tips on dating beyond your wildest dreams. It's informative and leaves the decision up to you, whether dating is right for you or not.

Other dating books just focuses on the negative side of dating and why one shouldn't. I strongly recommend this book to the individual, male or female, questioning dating. A Great Godly Intro To DatingThis book has been very helpful to me; it has opened my eyes into what the opposite sex really wants and doesn't want. This book has solid advice and common sense principles that will make sense almost as soon as you read them. And it reveals all of this and more in a Godly way, making this a sure book for any Christian teen who is wondering what dating is all about!Dirt on DatingGreat book! The guys in my youth group are really enjoying it. If you're looking for a book that delivers a Biblical view on dating while using a totally different book layout than you're used to, then this is the one. more...


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What My Mother Doesn't Know Author: Sonya SonesMeet Sophie. She sees herself as the too-tall "Mount Everest of teenage girls," who, along with her friends, often suffers from "lackonookie disease." She's dating smoky, sexy Dylan, covertly chatting online with "cybersoul"-mate Chaz, and secretly nursing a crush on sweet, geeky Murphy. Her two best friends are closer to her than sisters, and she "hates hating" her soap opera-addicted mom, wishing "she would show half as much interest in my life as she does in Luke and Laura's." In other words, Sophie is a typical teenage girl. What is not so typical is how author Sonia Sones records all of Sophie's thoughts in a freewheeling verse that is such a naked outpouring of inner longing, most readers will blush in embarrassed recognition of their own remembered or current teenage desires. Sones gently leads both the reader and Sophie towards an understanding of the difference between love and lust as Sophie slowly comes to realize that Dylan's outsides are no match for Murphy's insides. Autobiographical of Sones, perhaps? The author claims it isn't so, and she's probably right. With her frank manner, lusty thoughts, and hidden insecurities, Sophie reflects many teenage girls, past and present. No woman will be able to read this heartfelt verse novel and not find a bit of herself in Sophie's secret, sexy thoughts. Sones's decadent, almost shamefully delicious collection of angst poems is a loving and amazingly accurate tribute to adolescent girlhood. (Ages 12 and older) --Jennifer HubertWhat My Mother Doesn't KnowThis was the best book I have ever read. No need for details. JUST READ IT!!!!!!!!!!sonya sones at her bestThis is the story of Sophie, who is a typical teenage girl. She is on the path to finding her true love, but it's not as easy as it seems. First there's Lou, who drools, then sexy Dylan, then her "cybersoulmate," Chaz. But then, at the Halloween dance, she finds someone she connects with, but he's masked. She makes it her personal mission to find her masked man. When she does, she is shocked, but not as repelled as she first thinks. This book is told entirely in free verse, and is a quick read, but is very realistic about the power of peer pressure, and very touching.RealisticThis was a great book! Sophie is just like a 15 year old girl; One can relate to it from their teenage years whether they're way beyond those years, or right in the middle! The way it is written is a can't-put-it-down type of book! I'd definitely recommend to anyone, mainly any teenage girls out there wanting a fun book to relate to. more...


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Dating for Dummies Author: Joy BrowneIf you think dating is a simple process--meet someone, ask him or her for a date or get asked out yourself, try not to come off as a drooling moron, then arrange to get together for a second date or cut your losses and work to meet someone else--well, lucky you. For many people, it's far more complicated than that, and Dr. Joy Browne addresses those complexities in Dating for Dummies. Exactly how do you meet a potential date? How do you present yourself in the most favorable light? How do you negotiate that first date? (One interesting story Browne tells is of a couple who negotiated a weekend together, deciding whether or not they'd have sex, and under what conditions they'd consider marriage and children--all before their first date.) And how do you proceed from there? The process still comes down to chemistry, but Browne shows how many ways there are to make sure you get your best possible chance with Mr./Ms. Right. Abandoned GuyHey!, my wife left me 2 years ago, I've been through therapy and taking prozac, my therapist says it's ok to date women, even If I'm still married, but Dr. Joyce says you MUST NOT???, come on!, she has no clue about my life and my feelings, she has no right to come and tell me good from evil, bad from wrong, she's not my mother!. Besides that, I like her advice on the reason for approaching someone, get in mind all you want is to get to know the person and see if you both get along, don't think further than that objective. Some useful tips, but some seem too needy and nice for a guy!, the moment you let a woman know you are interested, the moment she losts interest in you!, I've experience on that, believe me.Pass on thisAll of the stuff in this book is very superficial.

I grabbed this off the bookshelf just to see what it said.

After reading this book and getting quite annoyed I came to the conclusion that unless you are a wealthy charismatic handsome you will look like a fool. This book teaches you how to kiss somebody's ass. I'd like to see some testimonials from readers of how this book has made an impact.

There are much better books around.Be careful: This is the miniature edition!This is the miniature edition, which is a hugely abridged version of the paperback book! more...


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This Lullaby Author: Sarah Dessen"I had no illusions about love... It came, it went, it left casualties or it didn't. People weren't meant to be together forever, regardless of what the songs say." Remy doesn't believe in love. And why should she? Her romance novelist mother is working on her fifth marriage, and her father, a '70s hippie singer, left her with only a one-hit wonder song to remember him by. Every time Remy hears "This Lullaby," it feels like "a bruise that never quite healed right." "Wherever you may go / I will let you down / But this lullaby plays on..." Never without a boyfriend, Remy is a compulsive dater, but before a guy can go all "Ken" on her (as in "ultra boyfriend behavior") she cuts him off, without ever getting close or getting hurt. That's why she's stunned when klutzy, quirky, alterna-band boy Dexter inserts himself into her life and refuses to leave. Remy's been accepted to Stanford, and she plans on having her usual summer fling before tying up the loose ends of her pre-college life and heading for the coast. Except Dexter's not following Remy's tried-and-true rules of break-up protocol. And for the first time, Remy's questioning whether or not she wants him to.

Author Sarah Dessen's ability to write novels that are both crowd pleasers and literary masterpieces of YA fiction is showcased beautifully in This Lullaby. Subtle yet completely absorbing, Lullaby is peopled with breathtakingly believable, three-dimensional characters, the very best of which is the bitter, broken Remy herself. An original love story about learning to love yourself first. (Ages 12 and older) --Jennifer HubertA gifted writer doing what she does bestThis book is about a girl's emotional and physical journey as she battles her doubts about true love, due to her mother's currently fifth fiancee. Because of the many divorces she has lived through, she has begun to withdraw herself from the world. But she learns about believing in herself, and using her family to get through the hardest of situations.There's no setting for 4.5 Stars...This book is unique for a teen read, but very enjoyable. The characters are not what you would expect, the events are not what you would expect, in a normal teen novel. I was pleasantly surprised by the unusual character of Dexter, but fell in love with him, and I was further surprised by the changes that occur in the main character, Remy. Though not as brilliant as Dessen's "The Truth About Forever," this book is a great read that looks into the heart of a cynical teenage girl and how the most unlikely person can change her forever. Some mature content. 16 and up.Sarah Dessen Does it AgainMonkey see, Monkey don't, or at least that is what Remy does when she looks at all of her mom's relationships. It is husband number five for the constant bride, and about the millionth boyfriend for Remy. Remy is what I would call the master at breaking up, partly because she does it every time she thinks she could fall for a guy. Unlike her mom , who, has fallen in "love" 5 times.

Something different happens this summer, and there is one word for it: Dexter. He is the total opposite of Remy and what she is looking for(a rock star and a sloppy mess), but yet she can't help and stay with him. Could this boyfriend be different, or will Remy's fear of love ruin her chances with Mr. Perfect?

Since Sarah Dessen has written so many other great teen fiction books that I enjoyed, such as Someone Like you and That Summer, I was not surprised about how well she wrote this one. She made the characters alive and real by putting so much feeling and emotion behind them. I mean you almost just want to tell Remy to stop being so stubborn and just show affection. An example of that would be in the beginning when she wouldn't go out on a date with Dexter and even when she knew she liked him, she didn't show it. Usually, whenever I find myself wishing that I could just get into a characters head and tell him/her to do something, it is a sign that like the book. Another thing I love about this book is that it is so easy to relate to. I am almost positive when you read this book you will think that one of the characters remind you of one of your friends or family members. So if you like books that you can relate to, that make you laugh out loud, or that just will make you keep reading, this is the book for you. Overall, this book was probably one of my favorites from Sarah Dessen and took teen fiction to the next best level. The pages won't stop turning so, go, right now and get a copy! more...


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The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook: Dating and Sex Author: Jennifer WorickBest Book I ever boughtThis book, although amzingly funny, is actually quite insightful and informative. A must buy for anyone involved in today's chaotic dating worldA Terrific, Light-Hearted View of Dating.Very funny, light hearted book from the Survival Series. Great conversation starter!

Some of my favorite sections include how to ditch your date and how to remove a hicky bruise.

Doesn't address the core components of attraction; guess that's what lifestyle coaching sites are for!


- GiddyupGuy.comIt's meant to be FUNNY, people!The biggest draw of this series of books is their humor. Is some of the advice useful? Sure it is! Is some of it absolutely outlandish? OF COURSE! (My favorite example of outlandish advice is actually found in the Parenting handbook in the section on saving for your child's college fund.)

I've read many books in this series, primarily for their humorous value. Yes, there seem to be a lot of self-help authors flooding the reviews with 5 stars and the cynical, humorless jerks trying to balance it out with one-star ratings, but let's be a little realistic people: these books are called "Worst-Case Scenario" for a reason; they aren't likely to be filled with everyday useful advice and how humorous people find them as compared to others is subjective. HOWEVER, it's another solid book in a very funny series. more...


Dating Tips...

How to Get a Date Worth Keeping Author: Dr. Henry CloudSuch insightI must honestly say that this book revolutionized my outlook on dating. Unlike other books written about dating by Christian authors, Cloud acknowledges the workings of the human mind throughout the book, a true benefit of his psychological knowledge. He raises all completely valid points, the most eye-opening of which for me was, an analogy of Tiger Woods. It read something to the effect of, "Tiger Woods had the goal of winning more major tournaments than any golfer in history. What if he would have said, 'The only tournaments I will play in will be major tournaments'? That's absurd. So why do people insist on dating only people they see themselves marrying?" That really hit home for me, because for so long I fell into the trap of thinking that dating is about marriage, when Cloud points out that it is about meeting new and interesting people, having fun, and learning much more about yourself in the unique environment which dating alone can provide. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for any single person, Christian or not.

Unlike a lot of other dating books I've read, Cloud's philosophies actually make logical and practical sense versus those of other authors (ie: "I Kissed Dating Goodbye"). I really cannot say enough good about this book, nor adequately summarize the profound truths therein. It is an easy read, entertaining, and eye-opening. You will not regret taking the time to read this book.Good Book/Not so good Book~Still love the authors though!I've read many of the New Life Guys' books and they have been a big part of my own growth in the past several years.

This book, however, wasn't one of the best and quite frankly, even though everyone seems to sing its praises, I don't think most single Christians really think about the implications behind the basic concepts of the book.

Of course as a leader of a singles ministry I wholly affirm Cloud's idea of contentedness in Jesus FIRST,(Matthew 6:33 ('seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be added unto you'), that of course you can't stay in your home & wait for the fedex man, that your traffic patterns must be changed, that internet dating for many people is the way to go, etc etc etc....

I, too, can be a disgruntled single Christian woman wondering where all the decent, Christlike single men are! LOL. I also feel for the Christian men who feel the same way...

BUT I can't help but wonder what Jesus would tell us (since the Bible never clearly addresses the issue of 'dating' in itself) about all this 'casual' dating, breaking hearts, giving others the wrong idea, and generally treating dating so lightly. So, can't we just call it... FRIENDING?? or building strong friendships that would LEAD to dating relationships??

It takes a very strong grounded, emotionally healthy person of character to be able to be clear on what their expectations are of a person in a dating relationship.
Do you know of a single Christian who is willing to wait for the best God has for them? OR are they all very anxious to date and be married and have kids, no matter what the cost?

Not to mention, WHY would Cloud (still dig ya!)even suggest dating someone who's not living for Christ? Again, in my experience, why risk it? Why risk becoming involved/attracted to someone who can weigh you down spiritually? Believe me, IT WILL. It did for me. Several times!

Heck, even Solomon experienced this: "Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father." (I Kings 11:1-4)

Our world, and even many of our churches, say that having a romantic love in our lives is a must, even if the "pickings" are slim. Wisdom says that we reserve the affections of our heart only for one whose commitment to the Lord and keeping His Word matches our own.

Sound hardcore? Try long-term relationships w/nonbelievers who you hope will become spiritually stronger. THAT'll mess you up.

All I'm sayin is don't settle. God has your back. The book has some good basic concepts. Definitely don't expect that he will bring the person to your doorstep. But don't treat dating so lightly either. Wow ... Permission to Go on an Endless Dating BonanzaI loved this book! My girlfriend gave it to me on Valentine's Day and wow ... it was brilliant! Values-oriented dating is wonderful and there truly are plenty of fish out there - just go on the site. Honestly... dating that is light and innocent and with these principles in mind can be a positive learning experience. Stay true to your values and never settle. more...


Dating Tips...

Collecting Costume Jewelry 202: The Basics of Dating Jewelry Author: Julia C. CarrollSuper BookCollecting Costume Jewelry 202 is a marvelous reference book and a joy to read. The pictures are particularly beautiful and the wealth of information is stunning. As a collector of vintage jewelry I appreaciate the illustration of the trends in styles that the wonderfully talented costume jewelry designers displayed in their pieces. Kudos to Ms. Carroll for teaching us with this fine book.FABULOUS BOOK!This book is fantastic! I am an experienced collector and this book is full of information on learning how to date vintage costume jewelry. I was totally impressed by the large sections on Coro & Trifari since I have many pieces from these designers from the 1930's - 1950's, and it was wonderful to be able to see actual patents, ads, and dating techniques. Along with the many other designers that she covered was just adding icing on the cake. I thought Ms. Carroll out did herself with her first book "Collecting Costume Jewelry 101" but this one continues to show her love, dedication and hard work on providing collectors with beautiful photos and extremely valuable information. I have already purchased many copies as Christmas gifts and hope she will continue to share her wealth of knowledge with us on this subject.Collecting Costume Jewelry 202For many years my customers have asked how to date a piece of costume jewelry, they have bought from me. Now I have the answers at my finger tips. What a great book! Very informative and well written. A beautiful book in all. more...


Dating Tips...

Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul on Love & Friendship (Chicken Soup for the Soul) Author: Jack CanfieldAmanda's Review of Chicken Soup for the Teen's Soul on Love & FriendshipI like the Chicken Soup for the Soul books, and I liked this one in particular because it was written for teens. It was, I believe, the first one I read for teens, and I enjoyed reading very much what other teens had to say. On the other hand, though, many of the stories are similar, so after I had read a few, they got a little bit reptitious. Overall, though, it was a good book.Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul on Love and FriendshipHeading: Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul on Love and Friendship
By: Jack Canfield, Mark Victor, and Kimberly Kirberger
Reviewed by: J. Jankaew
Period: 2
This book is about people's relationship between love and friendship. There are many different relationships in this book. Almost all of them are different. Many people have these same problems in their life too, so they should read it too. Teens will learn many things between their loves, and their friendships. Teens show how they feel about their closest relationships. Teens are interviewed in their lives and some of their stories are in this book. In this book it tells the names of the person who is in the relationship, and their age. There are many stories in this book.
I love about everything from this book. I have almost the same relationships and feelings as the people that are in this book are telling. I feel the same way as they do. The first quote I like is under the chapter Saying Good Bye. A teen is experiencing a moment when her best friend is leaving, are moving. The quote is, "Today I said good-bye to my best friend- the one person I have been able to count on for so many years." That is extremely sad. I had that experience once, when my best friend left me, but in this book it tells how she solves her problem. The Second quote is, Just One Look, That's All It Took." That was an amazing quote. That means love at first sight. The girl saw a boy and was in love because she thought he was cute. I had a moment like tat. I saw a guy that I thought was really cute, and I was in love at the first sight.
I didn't really have a favorite part of the book. I liked the entire book. All the stories in this book are fantastic. I have almost the same problems. I love this book because it tells me that I am not the only one that is sad. I don't hate this book one bit. I want other people to read this because; they probably have the same problems too.
Chicken Soup- Love & Friendship This book is a very good and interesting book to read. It has a lot of personal stories in it that help other people who are going through the same problems understand that they are not alone. The book covered many different topics and I think that's what made it so good. The different topics were; Falling In Love, Breaking Up, Friendship, Tough Times, Family And Love, Acts Of Kindness, and Growing Up. All these things are very critical to a teenager and this is what they all go through.
I think the best topics in this book were Breaking Up and Family And Love. Those two were the most interesting to me. Also Friendship was very good because it shows you what other people have gone through with friendships and that one-day you will meet a stranger and they might turn out to be your best friend you ever had. Breaking Up was good because the stories were emotional. It seemed as if the short stories were happening to you and you experienced them as you read them. Also Family And Love was good. That showed you that you never know what you love till it is someday gone or something happens.
This anthology is great to read. Every short story has an important meaning to it. You will learn a lot from it. It isn't boring either. I don't like reading but this book was something I couldn't put down. Every story was interesting in its own way. I hope if you ever get the chance to read it that you do because you won't regret it.
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Dating Tips...

Guide to Getting It On!: Includes Dating, Kissing, Love, Sex, Romance, Marriage, Oral Sex, Fellatio, Cunnillingus, Intercourse, Orgasms, Masturbation, Cybersex, the Prostate, Author: Paul JoannidesThis is the book to get!I'm a 40+ year young woman and was searching for a book to help get me comfortable in my new relationship. I looked at a lot of books, but this is the one I chose and so glad I did. It answers any question we might have. We have learned so much about each other which has enhanced our sex much more. It's a lot of fun! I recommend it for everyone and anyone of all ages and sex personalities. You and your partner will totally feel comfortable with this book.An aphrodisiac in book form.This is the only sex book that is fun and sexy to read. If you don't have this book, BUY IT NOW. If you have an earlier edition -upgrade. This book covers the basics that other sex manuals assume you know and then takes you into realms you never imagined (or maybe you did and thought you were weird). The new edition has all the latest information and resources, covers some new topics, and revisits familiar ground. Forget Viagra and testosterone patches. If this book doesn't spark your desire for sex, and for really good sex, nothing will. The Guide to Getting It On is sensitively written and will appeal to men and women, novices and not, those who have always enjoyed sex and those who have not. An Amazing Sex ManualThis is just the best sex guide/manual I've ever read. Not only is it incredibly informative, it's fun to read, and if sex isn't fun, or reading about it not fun, what's the point. This book covers everything I could think of and then some. The illustrations just add to the overall feeling of joy the book espouses. If every reference book was as good as this, regardless of the topic, we'd all be much better off. If you want a great, fun, informative sex guide this is it. more...


Dating Tips...

The Boyfriend List: (15 Guys, 11 Shrink Appointments, 4 Ceramic Frogs and Me, Ruby Oliver) Author: E. LockhartThe boyfriend listI picked up this book thinking it would be a story about a girl who loses everything, but somehow ends up getting everything back. I was wrong. I was rooting for her and Jackson all the way and wondering what Kim was being so pissed about. That was until I found out it was Ruby who kissed Jackson right when Kim and him are a couple. Ruby seems a little too bitter to me about Kim and Jackson. Jackson seems to be the only real boyfriend she ever has had, but I don't understand most of the other ex- boyfriends. Were they just fast hook ups and second later break ups? Confusing.
A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!I absolutely loved this book. i read it in one day because i couldn't sit it down.

This book is about Ruby. Ruby is kind of depressed so she goes to a shrink. The shrink tells her to make a list all of the boys shes ever liked. the book explains all of her flings.

I deffinately reccomend this book to anybody. its a cute, fun, and fast read. i loved it.The Boyfriend List This book is great for all you girls out there who think you're "lepers" It really showed that things aren't always as bad as they seem, and a lot of big fights come from terrible misunderstandings. I liked how this book most of the boys mentioned in the Boyfriend List are somehow connected, and I also liked how realistic this was, compared to some other cheesy teen novels out there today.
Very good book! more...


Dating Tips...

Think & Date Like A Man: (Be the woman who gets the man she wants...and keeps him!) Author: April MasiniThere is no guess work after reading this book! Smart, funny, direct and one of the best "how to" books I've read in years. And probably the best I've ever read on "how to get the guy." Think & Date Like A Man arms women with the tools, knowledge and information we need to succeed, though, without a doubt, it will piss some women off. (Some of what April Masini says is not what some women want to hear. But on the other hand, if they're pissed off -- they probably need to hear it!).

As for me, I have seen a change in myself and in the men I am attracting and dating already. And all I can say is that while some of us might require more change and work than others, if, we, as women, really want something, we'll take action to get it. I did. And if I can do it, any one can!

Think & Date Like A Man is a book for women who are ready to get what they want. It gives real concrete specific advice and answers, that leave little room for doubt. There will be no guess work after reading this book. Specific advice is important because it gives us specific things to do that will achieve specific results. If you want results, get this book. If you want a warm and fuzzy feel good book, that tells you what you want to hear, this book is not for you. Self-Help that's actually interesting!As a recent resident of Splitsville, I picked up this book on a whim, hoping to motivate myself to get back on the pony, so to speak. The book was interesting and funny, and helped me re-evaluate my approach to dating. After reading this book, I am not taking the dating scene so seriously. I'm relaxed and having fun, and I've realized that I don't have to latch onto the first guy that I meet...but that I can date around and just explore my options. I'm really excited about some of my prospects and really feel that this book played a big part in getting me back into the swing of things.Helpful, Funny, Sexy--This book's got it allI loved this book! Not only was it soooo helpful in my dating life--it was a GREAT READ, TOO! I love this author's style. She's relaxed and funny, not afraid to talk about sex and the down and dirty, and tells the God-honest truth. If you're unlucky in love it's for one reason only: you're NOT following April Masini's advice! more...


Dating Tips...

It's My F---ing Birthday: A Novel Author: Merrill MarkoeOn the first page of It's My F---ing Birthday, the unnamed narrator initiates a new tradition: every year she will write "a personal state of the union to help me chart my profits and losses." We get these annual reports in chapters, from "Thirty-Six" to the concluding "Forty mmmmppphhh." In between lie several years of angst-ridden dating and parental torment in the already hallowed tradition of Bridget Jones's Diary. There are two differences: author Merrill Markoe, who spent many years writing for David Letterman (and collecting many Emmy awards), has a considerably darker comic vision than Helen Fielding. And she also resists the temptation to pair her narrator off in the service of a happy ending. In fact, this is one woman who finds out she's happier on her own: "One great thing I have noticed about living all by myself: All of my annoying habits seem to have disappeared." --Claire DedererLaughed my head offI don't know if it's because my sister, the day before I started this book, had the exact same experience of dining with our parents or what, but when I woke her at 2 am to read an excerpt, rather than hang up, she said "keep going."

This book is hilarious but also very poignant. It hit home, especially the mother-daughter relationship. The sarcasm throughout was on the mark. I also found myself tearing up a bit in a few spots.

Loved it. Loved it. Loved it.A fun little quickieApproaching my upper thirtysomethings, I read this book with an "Amen, Sister!" frame of mind and knowing full well that I was not in for anything overly cerebral. It reads like a happy hour on ladies night, and as the last single woman in my circle of friends, I really appreciated and identified with this book. Many of the encounters the narrator recounts could have, down the last detail, been borrowed from events from my own life, and that's what makes it so funny. Oh, who am I kidding?! I laughed my [...] off. I recently celebrated my big 4-0 and I'm kind of itching to read it again. It's My F---ing ReviewSUMMARY: an unnamed, unmarried, thirtysomething female narrator takes the audience, via one chapter, through one year in her life. Every birthday, she analyzes her life, resolves to make changes, and vows to learn something new. Unfortunately, she can't seem to break the patterns of behavior with which she's been suffering for most of her life: bad boyfriends, bad sex, bad parental relationships. While not technically a memoir, this novel is too poignant and simply too REAL to be pure fiction.

WHY YOU'LL LIKE IT: True moments of hilarity abound throughout the text. I believe Markoe didn't name her protagonist because it allows the reader to mold the character into whatever they choose -- and good luck not identifying with most of her travails!

WHY YOU WON'T: There are numerous cringeworthy moments where you want to grab the narrator by her shoulders and shake some sense into her. I had several moments where I actually spoke, "What are you THINKING?! Stand up for yourself!" It can get frustrating, but that's what makes it real.

BOTTOM LINE: Not esoteric or life-changing, this novel is a quick and frothy read which will make you laugh, make you think, and make you appreciate how normal your family is (in comparison). more...


Dating Tips...

America's Printed Fabrics 1770-1890: 8 Reproduction Quilt Projects/Historic Notes & Photographs/Dating Your Quilts Author: Barbara BrackmanAmerica's Printed Fabrics 1770-1890This book gives a very good compressive over view of fabrics in a certain time frame. While I bought it for reference I discovered it is quite enjoyable just to read. I'd recommend it to anyone with an interest in fabrics. It would be especially useful to a beginning fabric aficionado.brackman/america's printed fabric 1770-1890what a wonderful resource book for anyone who is interested in fabric/fiber arts.
i'm a quilter who likes to create quilts with a flair from yesterday. this book not only helps me to be closed in my interpretation of that time, it does guide me through the decision which colors have been more used than others. the contents/pictures are very clear and the instructions to recreate some of the quilts are outstanding. i would give this book 6 stars! Wonderful bookI really like the layout on this book - full color pages of historical fabric swatches on the left pages, and comparison reproduction print swatches on the right. Wonderful book for anyone wishing to glean a good understanding of what historical prints look like and how they evolved. more...


Dating Tips...

The Rules for Online Dating: Capturing the Heart of Mr. Right in Cyberspace Author: Ellen FeinCapturing Their Heart?After being out of the dating scene for ages, I've been trying to work my way back in, and find The Rules aren't necessarily about capturing the heart of "Mr. Right," as they are weeding out "Mr. Wrongs" and not kicking yourself over a failed relationship or a relationship that's not getting off the ground. If he hasn't asked you on a date after four emails, it's because he simply doesn't want to, at least not badly enough to ask. The Rules help you give a guy enough room to decide, and communicate, what he wants -- the opposite of manipulation. excellent adviceI am a fan of the first book and subsequent "Rules" books by these authors. While these authors are criticized for being manipulative and non-feminist, one only has to try out their methods and look for results (or, conversely, violate the rules and see that doing so ends in disaster). Every time I have violated a rule of theirs, the man has immediately lost interest. What's great about this book is that it tells you exactly how to handle certain situations that arise when you are engaging in the online search for a significant other. This book is just what I needed to save myself time and heartache!You will either hate or love this bookBy reading other reviews you most likely have an opinion right now if this book is for you or not. Is it old-fashioned? Sexist? Stupid? Playing Games? Honestly, that's your call. There were several points I liked in this book, I think it has some valid content.

Profiles, the authors state that men basically look at the pretty pictures of the women, and glance at their profiles. Is this true? Men are visual. So pick a nice smiling photo. Don't write too much. I like this, not because it creates mystery, because your leaving out emotional baggage. Your selling yourself, not the fact your ex cheated on you with your neighbor, wouldn't commit, or he was mean.

I liked the after 4 emails, and he didn't give you his phone number, or ask for yours move on. Really, your on a dating website to date. If you are looking for chat buddies, go to a chat room. The author also asks you to wait 24 hours before you respond. There is a lot of pressure to respond right away, do you need to wait a full 24 hours?

There are a lot of tips like this that I think help weed out the real potential canidates. Online dating isn't for the faint-hearted. It is work finding the right person. I like that this book sets boundaries initially. I haven't read their other book, but I felt this book does a good job of helping you to sort through people. If you liked 'He's just not that into you', you will like this book as well. more...


Dating Tips...

Cheaters Author: Eric Jerome DickeyAfter a brief detour to New York City for Milk in My Coffee, Eric Jerome Dickey returns to Southern California for his fourth multi-track African American love story. The main story is a "he said, she said" affair between Stephan Mitchell, a well-to-do young software designer who's determined not to let any one woman get in the way of his good time, and Chanté Marie Ellis, who's decided to start turning the tables on men who try to play her for a fool. From now on, she declares, "A dog gets what a dog gets... dogged." Dickey makes their road to romance extremely rocky; in addition to sorting out their own feelings for each other, both Stephan and Chanté have to contend with exes who have just gotten out of their lives. Meanwhile, Stephan's best friend, Darnell, is having problems with his marriage: he wants to be a writer, but his wife insists that he put aside the "hobby" to pay more attention to her. When he meets Chanté's friend Tammy, an up-and-coming actress-singer who not only understands Darnell's artistic passion but encourages him, his commitment to marital fidelity is pushed to the limit.

As always, Dickey shows that he's on top of the current scene, peppering his characters' lives with the latest in black fashion and culture (if you ever find yourself driving in the Los Angeles area, you'll know exactly what your radio presets should be). Although the ending might be a little too neatly wrapped up, you'll never know before you get there whether the next chapter's going to contain romance, comedy, heartache--or maybe a little of each. Dickey's at the top of his form in Cheaters, establishing yet another credential for his status at the top of the contemporary urban romance heap. --Ron HoganWowThis was real good. book. I enjoyed it from beginning to finish. It's amazing what love can dobravoI have to say the first 120 or so pages had me wanting to throw the book away, but something told me to keep reading, and guess what, its one of my favorite books! Romance. heartache,true love and sex. a real good read.What ever happened to Toyomi?????????this book was ok, but im wondering what ever happend to Toyomi (Stephan's crazy ex girlfriend)? One day she threatening him and telling him she want her stuff, the next she just up and disapears, nothing else is said about her.. did she get her things from his house? Did she do something to him? what?.... i liked the charaters but EDJ made me mad when he wrote Stephan out to be a backstabber (this was a shocker, not like him).
There was hardly any real drama, and the little drama there was, was so predictable. Times when i thought it would have been a great drama-full scene, it just didnt happen.
I wanted to know more about the characters of Jake (Stephan's playa friend), Charlotte (Jake's fiancýe), Karen (Chantý's friend)... oh and at the end when they talked about the great thing Jake did, it made me think he was going to look into being a foster parent, but it didnt say he was, EDJ really didnt write too much about this character.
anyway, Chantý had so many ex boyfriends that at times i got them mixed up. but other than all the things i said, the book was ok. intresting read, something to do when your bored.
so will i ever buy another EDJ novel? yes. i will give him another chance.
hope my review was helpful (its my first one :) ) more...


Dating Tips...

The Year of Yes Author: Maria Dahvana Headleyan entertaining and well-written memoirI appreciate Maria Headley's memoir because she's intelligent, articulate, and insightful. She also doesn't shy away from a challenge, and I love that she kept such an open mind during her experiment to date everyone who asked her out. Once I picked up this book, I didn't want to put it down. I read it while I ate dinner, watched t.v., and brushed my teeth. As for those who disliked the book because Maria is too melodramatic and self-involved -- these are the kinds of people who write memoirs. The average non-celebrity has to be rather self-obsessed to pull off an interesting book about a year in her life. Ms. Headley did this with a lot of charm and wit.We must be related!Kudos to you Maria! Your book is a sparkling gem. I can relate, it took me hundreds of online first dates to realize what are the most important qualities in a mate! Thank you!Funny Read for Single GalsBeing single again myself, I could relate to this book. Plus it is based in New York City, and having just been there, I recognized the atmosphere. Supposedly it is a true story with a happy ending. Her writing seriously made me laugh out loud. If I were a book critic, I would give it a thumbs up. more...


Dating Tips...

Stop Dating the Church!: Fall in Love with the Family of God (Lifechange Books) Author: Joshua HarrisFantastic!We are using this book with our Singles group at our church. It has given very biblical reason to be a part and serve in the local church. We would definatley reccommend this book for anyone!A great book...just wish it had said more!Josh Harris (now Pastor Joshua Harris) has written a real gem of a book with "Stop Dating the Church." This is an excellent volume for people who have never "committed" themselves to the membership of a local church. He covers some very important points, and uses illustrations with which many people can easily (and embarrassingly) relate. His passion for Christ, for the people of God, and for the purpose of the Church is readily apparrent in this volume.

For those of us who have been part of "a church" for the greater majority of our lives, it was a bit "thin" in places. I would love to see a follow-up volume about the "church's" commitment to the individual believers, and how it all works together.

This is an easy read. I finished it in less than two hours. Mixed bagI have a big problem with the chain of logic put forth by this book. True, Christ's love for the church is like the love a man has for his wife. True, the ministry God has for us seems to be centered around the local church. So far so good. But then, we run into problems because the church universal is equated to the local church, and since we are called the Bride of Christ and Christ is the groom, then me being uncommitted to my local church is the same as being uncommitted to Christ. Any Christian not committed to the local church is just "dating" the local church, so he is just "dating" Christ and not really committed to the faith. Sorry, that is just not in the Bible, and I cringe when I read reviewers report how faithful Josh Harris has been to the Bible in this book.

This book calls for things that are almost cultic. It gives an example of a man who attends the song service in one church and the preaching in another church, and says that he is too-timing Christ. Missing church for hobbies like hunting is not allowed. The solution for people not taking church seriously enough is for no one to ever be allowed to miss a service. Nothing is important enough to keep a Christian from faithful church attendance.

How can this be applied? Well, Christians would then be prevented from becoming doctors, because sometimes doctors have to miss Sunday morning services because of emergencies, and we know that nothing is more important than Jesus. Ditto, policement, firemen, paramedics, and military personnel.

In sum, this book makes note of one extreme, apathy on the part of churchgoers, and calls for the establishment of cult-like rules to remedy it.

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An Introduction to Optical Dating: The Dating of Quaternary Sediments by the Use of Photon-stimulated Luminescence Author: M. J. Aitkenbroken date of stonsI want to rewiew the methods suitable for dating the cracks,broken stons and rate of sedimentation from a moumtain. Also the suitable techniques. more...


Dating Tips...

Rainbow Road Author: Alex SanchezFriends from East to WestIn this third installment of Sanchez's rainbow trilogy, we find Kyle, Jason, and Nelson taking a road trip across the country (from Washington, DC to Los Angeles, CA).

There definitely is something transformative about driving across the country--even more so when you don't do it alone. The excitement, the fear, the being trapped, the feeling infinite...Sanchez did a great job of capturing these emotions. The distinct personalities of Kyle, Jason, and Nelson that Sanchez has developed over the series (Rainbow Boys, Rainbow High, and here in Rainbow Road) gets the chance to unfold even more. We learn more about the characters, we get to watch them grown, and become themselves.

Nelson's utter commitment to being himself shines through.
Kyle's dedication to his friends, and his vulnerability that is matched by his sense of hope are endearing.
And Jason...his perseverance is admirable.

While I worry that the ending is a little too focused on coming out as a panacea, I do like Sanchez's emphasis on the importance of community.Awesome!Out of three books I love this one the best. The after high school setting was cool for a change and the maturity levels of the characters was better. In this book, Kyle isn't the perfect boy anymore, Jason sees that he can screw up. I like the readers now see some of Kyles flaws and defects, this is one of the best parts of the book. Jason...oh Jason. I enjoyed reading about how Jason questions hes total "gayness" when he sees naked girls and kisses that girl in the club. Thats a big problem many questioning people have and it was nice to see it brought up in a way. Jason and Kyles relationship goes throught its tough times on this trip with is also nice to see becuase not every relationship in the world is perfect. In many ways even though Kyle and Jason fight, their relationship is growing stronger. Then comes Nelson. Nelson, a friend of Kyle and not really Jasons in the other two books. In this book, I like how Nelson and Jason start to connect and Kyle doesnt like that. This is another big problem many teens hae in their relationships, gays and straights. He also wants to find his true love like Kyle found Jason, but he doesnt know if hes ever going to find that til the end of the book in L.A. My all time favorite part of the book is at the end when Kyle knows he want to spend the rest of his life with Jason and that they are going to take it one day at a time, just like the old couple from the diner. I would recommend this book to everyone!!! Worse than the first but better than the secondTo answer that burning, burning question: Nelson's love life becomes more than unrequited crushes and a past one-night stand. Thank God. Now the world can move on!

The best book of the trilogy, for me, is still the first, with its boldness amidst hesitancy and tender emotions, and the worst is the second one, where too many aspects aren't given enough time to develop. Rainbow Road, if not the best of the trilogy, is definitely a worthy conclusion.

I was wondering if Jason's bisexuality was going to be addressed again, or if it was going to be put to the wayside due to his relationship with Kyle; it becomes important, but, luckily, in a way that gives more depth to Jason as a character as opposed to being sensationalized or a factor that makes his relationship with Kyle impossible. Confined quarters and long hours on the road lead Jason and Kyle to see each other's flaws, which is one of the best parts of the book. Jason is no longer the idealized perfect man of Kyle's dreams, but the two come to know each other on a deeper level.

Nelson remains Nelson, though spending so much time with Jason leads to both a friendship between them and the realization from Nelson that he's somewhat attracted to Jason, the latter being one of the funniest and truest parts of the book. In a way, Nelson is probably the character who has grown least in the series, but there's something comforting in knowing that Nelson is always going to be outrageously fabulous (wait till you get to the Britney Spears outfit) while still doing his share of embarrassing things (of the three main characters, only Nelson would manage to drop his cell phone in the toilet).

In my previous reviews of the books in this trilogy, I make reference to my opinion that Alex Sanchez watches a lot of Queer as Folk, an influence which definitely shows in his work. Before Rainbow Road was published, I read my old reviews again and thought, "Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe the things that seem QaF-inspired are really just things that could easily be part of the young gay experience, and QaF has nothing to do with it." Then I read Rainbow Road and got to the part with the Radical Faeries. I knew it, I knew it, I knew it. There were of course Radical Faeries before they appeared on Queer as Folk, but the scene with the Radical Faeries in Rainbow Road confirmed my suspicions once and for all.

If there's something to be learned from Rainbow Road, it's that if you put a gay pride sticker on the back of your car, you'll meet up with every type of queer person known to the public consciousness. The amount and variety of people the boys meet is somewhat unrealistic, but page-turning nonetheless. Overall, Rainbow Road is a funny and emotionally true book with some moments of practical unreality. more...


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