5 comments about Outwitting Neighbors: A Practical and Entertaining Guide to Achieving Peaceful Coexistence with the People Next Door.

1. This book reviews a huge variety of problems which come up between neighbors. Most of these are documented as they became legal cases, so the facts are true.

   But in addition, the author does a good job winding through the stories with wit and a biting edge - helping us laugh at all the foibles and idiosyncracies of people. Usually we can find something we've seen or can identify with.

   A good read.




2. Bill Adler has always been a funny writer, and this book is no exception. He gives lots of real-life stories here. Once in a while, though, it feels a little as if he's making fun of the people involved- maybe a few fewer stories, and a few more techniques, would be a more effective tool.

   The solutions to various neighbor problems run the gamut from sneaky, underhanded tricks involving tape recorders, to assorted legal tactics. Mediation is mentioned in several cases, although not enough in my opinion. I am fortunate to live in a city with a Dispute Resolution Center where professional mediators handle all sorts of neighborhood problems and minor legal thingies; however, I guess not every town has one, so perhaps I can't take for granted that he should recommend everyone try mediation.

   The main point of this book, though, is to read the stories of all the horrible neighbors, and be glad they're not yours. If all you have is a slightly yappy dog next door, count yourself lucky. Enjoy the tales of encroaching plants, garbage, old cars, noise, parties, sunbathers, shade-tree mechanics, and downright psychotics. Make notes about what sort of resources there are. Adler names city and state departments and agencies you may not have known existed. He provides practical advice on how to document problems, and how to poll a neighborhood to bring people together to address a problem.

   Many of these stories can also serve as clear instructions on how NOT to get into a 20-year feud. One thing Adler does point out in a couple of places is that if you find a problem with a neighbor, but nobody else in the neighborhood agrees with you, maybe YOU are just too sensitive. It's unlikely that the people this is aimed at will realize it, sigh...




3. Mostly a collection of bad neighbor stories. The solutions offered are pretty much common sense: "Build a fence" or "bring some home made cookies". There's a section on how to inflict revenge on you neighbor...that's pretty interesting.



4. There is absolutely nothing in this book about "outwitting your neighbor". It's a collection of horror stories about how bad neighbor disputes can get and suggestions about making nice-nice with the people who are making your life a living hell. It left me feeling more hopeless and depressed about our situation than when I started reading it.

   One of the lame-o quotes in the book implies to just wait the situation out, everything changes, dogs die, kids grow up, people move. The truth though is life's short. The years fly by. People should not be able to intentionally make other people miserable for even one day. Local governments should inact tough laws and enforce them zealously.

   I think people who buy a book with a title like this have serious problems. They've surely already tried to talk it out peacefully, make ammends, even called the police, mayor and city council to no avail. They are looking for hope, helpful suggestions and effective strategies. This book offers none of the above.

   The author should have called his book what my problem neighbor has shouted at me many times: "If you don't like it, just move!"




5. I got this book as a gag gift, but once I read it, it did help me learn to find common ground with bad neighbors, and accept that many times the devil you know (and can endure/work with) is better than the devil you don't know. I agree with other reviewers, who note that most of the book is comprised of horror stories designed for reader support and sympathy.

   However, the examples add up to a powerful and useful message: (1) When trying to resolve neighbor problems, the fastest way to make an *enemy* is to indicate that you know better than they how to run their lives. (2) The fastest way to get results is to accept the neighbors for who they are, and then explain to them how their behavior (or their kids/pets/etc.) will lead to a behavior of your own.

   My own story: One of my neighbors has a dog (a big adult Weimaraner) who was allowed to run unleashed in a shared apartment-building yard space, which literally is in violation of the lease. And when I would park my car or use my garage, the dog would charge me, and once came very close to taking a chunk out of my leg. Now, I could have yelled, or beaten the dog with a tire iron, but that would of course have made an enemy of the neighbors, who otherwise are very nice people. Even worse, it wouldn't really solve the problem, which is bad pet ownership and training!

   So, after consulting Adler's book, I left a note for the neighbors (copied to our landlord) which indicated that I respected their decisions on how to train their dog, but that I would have Mace in my pocket at all times. So, the next time that their unleashed dog (or any others) attacked, I would have to disable the dog but leave no permanent harm. After all, the dog is just being protective, however misguided the effort. Well, lo and behold, the next day the neighbors came by with an apology, *and* a plate of cholocate chip cookies (this is absolutely true) for me, as a peace offering, and they always leash their dog now. Better still, I got to meet the dog about 2 months later, and now he treats me like a friend---one more watchdog who watches out for the right people!

   Anyway, Adler's book was the key for me to understand neighbor psychology: communicate your respect for them and their ways, but also communicate in a non-threatening way what may happen if you feel you are in danger or are being harmed by their actions. And, I must say, the horror stories made me feel much less alone, and also grateful that I don't have worse problems than decent neighbors who bake cookies!

3 comments about Keys to Parenting the Gifted Child (Barron's Parenting Keys).

1. This book focuses more on extremely gifted children. It did a good job of covering the many different aspects of giftedness but didn't get very deep into any of them. I don't think it's a bad book but it didn't really help me much with raising my gifted son.



2. I checked this book out from the library, and am very glad I did not invest. I am searching for help in raising two twice-exceptional kids. For that purpose, this book is useless. However, I doubt this book would be all that helpful to those without learning disabilities.
   
   The chapter devoted to disability spends two pages differentiating between "dependence" and "disability," then tosses out a couple paragraphs about dealing with dependence, but nothing on dealing with disabilities. The author devotes no more than a sentence in which to name several types of disbilities, but doesn't even bother to define the terms. She then spends the rest of the chapter trying to convince me not to medicate for ADHD -- which my kids don't have.
   
   I jumped around a little trying to find something of value, but was continually disappointed. The chapter on two parent families describes the situation as an affliction to be overcome (she contends that the adults naturally compete to appear as the "better parent.")
   
   Her chapter about social skills opens by saying that first you must stop using the word "shy" when describing the child. She then proceeds to use the term "shy child" throughout the rest of the chapter.
   
   This book is going back to the library!



3. "Keys to Parenting the Gifted Child" (3rd ed., 2007) is a very comprehensive guide for families with gifted children. Author Sylvia Rimm, Ph.D., explains how to have your child evaluated, select a school (whether it's preschool or elementary), encourage a love of reading, teach good homework habits, communicate with your child's teacher, and more. She also answers questions such as: Should my child be allowed to skip a grade? Should I homeschool my child? How do I encourage my gifted child if he or she has a disability? Rimm also addresses family issues related to having a gifted child, such as parenting with a united front, sibling rivalry and single parenting. This book answers the questions that parents have so they can "unlock the potential" of their very bright children.

2 comments about Pattern Designing for Dressmakers.

1. Clothing may not have been very comfortable in the late 19th century and early 20th century but this book has proven that they were truly works of art. With hundreds of illustrations, from bustled dresses to the many different kinds of collars possible; it leaves lots of room for the imagination. Just on pleated skirts alone, there were 25 excellent illustrations. As a junior fashion design student, I found this book easy to read. The patterns and diagrams were easy to understand and the logic behind the designs makes pattern designing seem not too complicated. The designs here are for lovers of details and elegance.



2. This book covers the basics of female dress from the middle 1800's to the 1930's, in my opinion, rather well. It is very hard to find books that will not only teach you how to pattern draft (which is correct, anyhow)patterns, but how to design off of basic patterns for an era that is long gone. I enjoyed the children's illustrations the most...it is very, very hard to find a book that will help you draft children's patterns at all. I recommend this book to anyone who wants accurate information on pattern drafting for the late Crinoline, Edwardian, and 1920's eras.

No comments about Plan Your Wardrobe.

3 comments about Singing for Your Supper: Entertaining Ways to Be a Perfect Guest.

1. I loved this book! It offers old-fashioned notes on courteous behaviour as well as tips on how to lighten up a slow party. It is not for everyone, some of it may seem a little silly to those obsessed with the current trend towards rudeness, but if you like Miss Manners@ you will enjoy this book. It would also make an interesting hostess gift, as other guests could attempt some of the suggestions for entertainment described here.



2. I don't know about other peoples' social lives, but I can't imagine that you'd be invited more than once if you monopolized peoples' evenings with the things suggested in this book. Most of the suggestions are sophomoric, if not childish. I felt I wasted my money.



3. The book's theme is simple: Rather than just showing up to a family or friend's event, be prepared to offer something of social value. Parlor games, magic tricks, palm reading, a few others.
   
   I read earlier reviews which said the book was dissapointing.
   
   From my own experience, I can't tell you how much hosts appreciate these thoughtful gestures. As a guest in a home with young children, just consider how entertaining and engaging it would be to share a couple of quick magic tricks. I have. It's more than memorable. It's something that creates a great vibe for you, and cements relationships.
   
   The palm reading chapter is simple, and refreshing. People interested in palm reading often get put off by palm reading books that overwhelm you with detail. This book provides basic insights - enough to again share with others quickly, yet insightfully.
   
   These concepts are the basis for many of the programs I now teach single men to use in social situations.
   
   Unfortunately as adults we are often too quick to reject something new or novel. Ironic these ideas stem from Victorian traditions.
   
   - Giddyupguy.com

5 comments about The Queer Parent's Primer: A Lesbian and Gay Families' Guide to Navigating Through a Straight World.

1. How very important the subject matter; how very disappointing the outcome of this project. The first portion of the title is misleading. It is not a primer. There is absolutely no discussion of adoption, alternative means of starting a family, legal issues for gay men and lesbians, etc. There is a fair amount of information for lesbian couples, but even that is a warmed over rehash of self-help group discussions. This is not a book for a gay person longing to be a parent. One can only hope that someone else will move rapidly to fill the void this book only skirts.



2. this book covers it all, and in an easy to read format. from legal issues to what to call the co-parent, to how to come out to the grandparents.

   this book covers topics clearly in a way that other books out there simply don't. very well written. i see why [they] picked this as a top ten book of 2001!

   this is now my parenting bible.




3. i bought this book when it first came out last year. i've now purchased a total of six for friends. there is nothing like it on the market. great guidance not just on glbt parenting, but on parenting in general!

   EVERY glbt parent needs this book... and honestly quite a few straight parents could use it, too.




4. The advice offered here is the most pedestrian of any "primer" I've ever read. I didn't need to read this book to know that "communication is important in any family" and other "words of wisdom" offered in this tome. Most of the "advice" culled within these pages is plain and simple, common sense. The author repeats herself on virtually every page. There wasn't anything here that I couldn't have figured out for myself and much of it was so simplistic that it was borderline insulting. Don't waste your time or money.



5. I bought this book with high hopes and felt guilty for not liking it. Brill establishes a narrow range of acceptable choices for gay-headed households, and passes judgment on everything from what kids should call parents to whether or not to affiliate with a mainstream church or synagogue. It is also repetitive and emphasizes the obvious: that parents have to be out and secure in their identity in order to raise happy & healthy kids. Every time I haven't read it in a while, I'll pick it up again, only to remember how much I hate it and cast it aside in annoyance.
   I gave it two stars instead of one because 1) hey, it's something and there's not much out there, and 2) sometimes bad books inspire other authors to write better ones.

No comments about The Management of Food Service Operations.

3 comments about Help, It's Broken!: A Fix-It Bible for the Repair-Impaired.

1. This book covers everything and the author has a great sense of humor throughout. It reads well and is the first home-repair book that is easy to understand



2. If you buy just one basic home-repair book, get this one; I couldn't believe that it would actually come in handy, but when my college ring fell down the sink, "Help! It's Broken" helped me save my jewelry and keep my sanity-- without calling a plumber. I was also happy to find that the guide came without the zzz factor of most home repair books; it's obvious the author put a lot of time into making sure readers wouldn't get bored or frustrated.
   
   I would highly recommend this book for any new homeowner, renter, or college student; I'm planning on getting another for my friend's housewarming gift.



3. This book not only explains how to fix common household problems, it also helps you figure out who and when to hire an expert, and what questions to ask. I have fixed my toilet and leaky faucets -- all by myself. The chimney cleaning and repair jobs were hired out -- happily. It's easy to read, easy to look up specific household repairs. Wonderful explanations on how things work.

No comments about Cornucopia of Cushions.

4 comments about Easy Does It!: Cheap & Simple Ways to Solve Common Household Problems: Extraordinary Uses for Ordinary Products.

1. This is the title that every person needs to own!! It has wonderful commonsense information about a huge amount of everyday household problems and topics with easy solutions. For instance, in reference to a mouse problem in my house, it gave me at least 4 different ways to deter the little critters. All of the ways consisted of items which I already had in my cabinets, but didn't know would solve the problem. The diversity of topics absolutely amazed me and encouraged the immediate placement of this title on the most accessible shelve in my bookcase. I know that it will be indispensable!! The price is perfect too. Thumbs up!



2. I came across this book at a friends house and found myself sifting throught it. It has ALOT of useful information on so different many topics. It has useful tips on everything from how to clear a drain with cheaper products to how to save money on gas...I had to order a copy of my own ASAP, you should to!



3. I have used this book on an as needed or reference basis. It gives several ideas and solutions for each problem I have looked up. The solutions I chose worked and were helpful.



4. There are hundreds of items of advice in this volume, and they are applicable to topics as diverse as gardening, household cleaning, the entertaining of guests, caring for pets, simple mechanical care, and many others. Who would imagine some of them! Did you know, for instance, that dressing in clothing that contains vertical stripes makes you look taller? Or that vinegar can clean and deodorize your coffeepot? Or that you can avoid smashed fingers, when driving in a nail, by first sticking the nail into a piece of cardboard before driving it home? Or that a licked and closed envelope can be re-opened, without damaging it, by freezing it first? Or that olive oil can substitute for shoe polish?
   
   Much of the advice presented in this book centers upon foods. There is a ranking of peppers according to their spiciness. The flavor of coffee can be prolonged by keeping it at a freezer (since chemical reactions, including those that degrade feedstuffs, tend to proceed more slowly at colder temperatures). I found this to be the case.
   
   Finally, the advice presented here is not merely relevant to household conditions. For example, there is a suggestion to re-use plastic egg cartons for the holding of paint--a different color in each chamber. As a teacher, I found this especially useful in children's art projects. What's more, the messy egg-carton "palettes" can be disposed after the project is over.