Nature's Masterpiece [Paperback]

Libby Purves (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 3, 2000

'The family is nature's masterpiece' - George Santayana A compendium of practical advice and reflections on modern family life in the age of computer gaming, ever younger drug and drink problems, educational upheaval and concerns about the way children's freedom, health and personal development are threatened by considerations of safety. Libby also considers the maintenance of marriage in an age of rising divorce and stepfamilies, a balanced approach to sexual threats to children, and the dangers and opportunities for family life caused by dual careers, teleworking, and other trends in the modern workplace. Each subject is treated with wit and brevity to make the book a delight to read as well as providing a fund of useful advice.

--This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'Purves is back, with a compendium of practical advice, full of witty musings and ... calm good sense' -- Woman and Home 'Libby Purves is the voice of reason whatever she writes about, and we must be grateful that she has shone her common sense and humour into the dark corner that the poor, beleaguered concept of family currently inhabits.' -- Daily Mail 'peppered with good anecdotes ... reams of good-natured meandering... chummy prose ... useful nuggets.' -- Mail on Sunday '... this collection of wise thoughts and practical advice on all aspects of family life ... contains much useful and valuable guidance ... she writes entertainingly and in straightforward language, making it accessible to all parents' -- South Wales Argus 'lots of practical advice' -- Birmingham Evening Mail 'She writes trenchantly about the problems and pleasures of bringing up children'. -- Looks 'This book is so resoundingly sensible it is as mentally refreshing as a blast of pure oxygen. Purves captures the messes, rows and utter bliss of normal family life completely and reports on it with clear-eyed common sense. This book offers exactly what most averagely competent parents need.' -- Books --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

About the Author

Libby Purves is a novelist, Times columnist and radio broadcaster. In 1999 she was awarded the Granada 'What the Papers Say' award for Columnist of the Year and an OBE in the Queen's Birthday honours. She lives in Suffolk with her husband, the broadcaster and writer Paul Heiney. --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Paperback: 382 pages
• Publisher: Hodder Hb (February 3, 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0340751355
• ISBN-13: 978-0340751350
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #6,782,044 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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