Customer Reviews

Manners

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(3)
1 star:		(3)

 

 

This book reads more like a list of Kate's pet peeves. There is really nothing new to be learned from this book other than what most people already know, such as chewing gum in public, turning cell phones off in the movie theater, sharing arm rests, splashing people with water while in the pool, etc.

I found two things disturbing about the book. A lot of the advice she gives, which is very little, in handling awkward sitauations is to grin and bear it and be sure to hit the booze while you are at it. I do not see how getting drunk is a remedy. I think that sometimes it is more appropriate to speak up for yourself in a way that will not be offending to others around you. It's just that when these occasions do arise, sometimes it helps to get a little guidance on how to speak up tactfully, and this book will not provide any such guidance.

I also was floored when she claims that apparently it is a faux pas to wear a band-aid on one's foot that is visible while wearing sandals. ????? eh???? This I do not understand at all. What is one to do if they've injured their foot and it's uncomfortable to wear regular shoes? This advice is a bit too much and way off the mark.

I did learn 2 useful bits of knowledge (like splitting a check and visiting someone's home), but other than that, there isn't anything practical or useful to be learned here.

This is a cute book, but lacking in substance. Like her other books in this series, it's layout is like a magazine- with watercolor illustrations, quotes and short paragraphs interspersed through out the pages. The advice Kate gives is not bad- it's just that you can get this information, and in greater detail from Emily Post's book. Kate does give some modern advice for cell phones and re-gifting, but nothing you have not heard already. It was an entertaining one-time read that you can finish in about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Check it out at your library instead of buying a copy though.

I agree with the other reviewer. I bought all of the books in this series and am shocked at how much of the advice has been taken from previous authors on these topics. She is copying classics like Emily Post and simply re-wording the text. Except for the cute drawings, this series is a waste of money. If you want to know how to do things "correctly", read Letitia Baldridge's "The New Manners For the '90's". It covers everything and is written by a woman with the education and experience to know of which she speaks! Not someone who using her fashion connections to flood the magazines and talk shows with her "discovery" of this information.

Kate Spade's "Manners" is a delightful book. After reading "Manners", I was left with ideas about how to incorporate politeness and respect for others back into my busy and fast paced life. Ms. Spade gives a number of wonderful suggestions for displaying manners in the business world, at home, while staying with friends, etc. I also loved that she included etiquette rules for when traveling to foreign countries.

"Manners" succeeds in reminding its readers that how you treat others has a strong impact on the quality of your life. While this book is not designed to compete with Emily Post's writings or other etiquette anthologies, it is a lovely reminder to readers that thoughtfulness and kindness can bring yourself and others much joy in your day to day lives.

"Manners" will make a wonderful addition to your book collection. Kudos to Kate Spade for a job well done!

Common manners have almost completely disappeared from everyday life. I am now surprised when someone is polite instead of being shocked at rudeness. If this book is responsible for even a few people learning to be more courteous in every day life then it is a laudable effort. You don't need to be a paragon to want to see a revival of common decency. Post and Vanderbilt are a bit stuffy for the everyday person, Spade has made manners more accessible, and that's great.

Kate Spade is no etiquette expert, which may be why this dull little book seems to have no viewpoint and seems to be basically a lightly rewritten selection of other etiquette books. Does the world really need another book on "how to behave" written by a superrich socialite with little or no contact with the real world? I say no. Plus, Kate Spade really has nothing to say on this subject. Now, all that said, it is a very lovely-to-look-at book, which says to me that Spade should stick to what she knows: design.

I think a fashion designer writing a book on manners has appealed to the audience she wishes. This is a cutesy book on manners that makes for a perfect girlfriend, mom, or graduation gift. I bought a copy to give to my mom and I know she is going to love it. I also bought a copy for my niece that is graduating. It is for all ages. The darling colorful drawings catch your eye as you thumb through and are just great. It is perfect for someone who doesn't want just a book of words on manners. I don't think Kate authored this to compete with Emily Post. You get all of the basics that are essential manners plus this book has its own character and personality. The whole series is great!

Kate Spade, the designer of all things accessories, offers up her opinion on manners. Her book, published in 2004 and aptly titled "Manners", is a fun glossing over of various etiquette question and manners-probing moments. The blue cover and white silhouette illustration reflect Ms. Spades paired-down style.....you like what you see and you know what's inside is going to be classic advice without ever giving off a pretentious air. The book cover colors and design are simplistic and classic, not the least bit over trendy.

Divided into three sections, "Manners" addresses everyday manners for 365 days a year, communication manners and everything miscellaneous. Kate Spade begins her foreword with "the world is round and manners aren't square". Oh, if only the entire world could hear that quote. It's a motto I truly admire and wish I had thought of myself.

Turn the pages to the first daily manners section and the reader will see "10 gentle reminders for modern day etiquette". These are simple reminders we should all consider on a daily basis. How could a reader not appreciate that? Our world today continually bombards us with opportunities to see other human beings and treat them as such. "Manners" gives its reader the opportunity to be kind everyday, reach out to those we don't see and recover difficulties gracefully.

Her little blue book is a delight. Ms. Spade supplies petite bits and pieces of life and society and how to deal with it both effectively and with charm. Her pages covering social spills and gracious recoveries are considerate to the general population. We've all made a social faux pas here and there. Ms. Spade acknowledges our humanness and navigates us through those embarrassing moments.

Her pages contain little snippets and cute drawings. The drawings are like cut out paper dolls complete with all the items the paper dolls would use in their own little world. From the proper tip to the expected attire at specific events, "Manners" offers direction to everyday questions. Solutions to etiquette dilemmas like the delayed thank you note and a note from a child are punctuated with quotes from assorted writers and the esteemed Emily Post. Suggestions on when not to use a cell phone and how to encompass proper behavior in a variety of public spaces, both home and abroad, are gems.

Like Kate Spade's stylish accessories, manners are classic. Etiquette does not go out of style.

Manners is not a bad book but Kate Spade was never known as an etiquette expert so you have wonder where she's getting her knowlege from. Spade never makes a compelling argument on why you should go with Manners instead of sticking with the real experts like the Posts and the Vanderbilts.

On the plus side, Manners is very pretty. The illustrations, the type, the design --everything about it looks fresh and lovely but it's not enough to make me want to keep this book.

I picked this book up while staying as an overnight guest at my sister-in-law's. What a great find! The reading was light and comical at times. I ended up borrowing the book, since I was only there for one night. It's a great quick reference and has helped me at the numerous wedding and baby showers I have attended recently. Subsequently, I have purchased this book for myself and for several friends "just because" and as a housewarming gift. This is a great coffee table or guest room book--a conversation piece I highly recommend!