The traditional rules of etiquette are always appropriate but it isn't always clear what to do in modern situations involving things such as cell phone use, email, social networking, and even online dating, although basic common courtesy is always a good place to start. According to the author, "While firmly set in precedent, etiquette is also flexible, perpetually morphing according to situations and times. Not only does etiquette respond to the specifics of the circumstances at hand (such as who we are with and what region of tghe world we are in), but also it evolves over the years to keep pace with what is happening in technology and culture."
This book of manners covers all the traditional rules of etiquette such as which fork to use at a dinner with several courses and how to r.s.v.p to an invitation, as well as new ones that reflect modern times such as the difference between a save-the-date announcement and an actual invitation and which requires a response, or whether it is ever appropriate to send a thank you via email instead of a handwritten note.
I especially appreciated the chapter on teaching manners to children, something that sadly doesn't seem to be as much of a priority as it once was. The author gives great advice on how to instill manners at home with children from toddlers on up, and includes a section on instructing teens on how to behave online and stay safe with social networking. She also addresses ground rules for playdates and how to handle bullies.
Other chapters include etiquette for being a host or guest, dating, getting married, births, personal appearance, conversation, correspondence and communication, tipping, traveling, and more. Whether the situation be an everyday event or a special occasion, personal or professional, everything is covered in this book and is presented in an unintimidating manner that made it interesting to read.
I learned long ago that not enrolling in a charm course or not being brought up in a certain level of society is never an excuse for being uninformed as to what proper behavior is in any situation when a book like this is available as a guide. It is a resource that everyone can benefit from and would make a great gift for high school and college graduates.
I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher but the opinion of it is my own and was not solicited, nor was a positive review required.