What is sweeter than love? And what’s more challenging than the difficult path we often must take to find and keep love?
We all mourned the tragic death of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Jr. So handsome, so much promise, from a family that seemed doomed to suffer such heartbreaking tragedy. COME TO THE EDGE is the memoir written by Christina Haag, who was the on-again, off-again girlfriend the young Kennedy scion came to call his “compass.” From a sheltered Catholic school background, Haag found herself thrust into a world of extreme wealth and glittering society. We can’t help but wonder if only Haag and Kennedy had stayed together, would their passionate relationship have somehow kept him from his sad fate? Beautifully written, now in paperback.
Also available in paperback is Haley Tanner’s VACLAV & LENA. This volume contains a conversation between Tanner and Tea Obreht, author of THE TIGER’S WIFE, as well as Questions and Topics For Discussion. Vaclav and Lena seem made for each other from the moment they meet at their ESL class in Brighton Beach. Shy Lena loves not only the outgoing boy, but his family as well. Lena suddenly disappears from Vaclav’s life, but he never forgets her, and each evening, bids her goodnight and wonders if she’s thinking of him.
We all need a helping hand now and then. ATTACHED: THE NEW SCIENCE OF ADULT ATTACHMENT AND HOW IT CAN HELP YOU FIND-AND KEEP-LOVE is a pretty unwieldy title, but contains a simple premise. As set down by Amir Levine, M.D. and Rachel S. F. Heller, M.A, the path to finding that special someone to go through life with us can be mapped out scientifically. First, we must identify the three different attachment styles (secure, anxious, or avoidant) and be able to predict how the object of our affection will respond to intimacy and commitment. A must-have for anyone who has had a difficult time finding the right life partner.
Dr. Joy Browne, PhD, is a nationally syndicated radio host on WOR. She lays it all on the line in DATING FOR DUMMIES. How do we get back into the swing of things after a divorce? What about dealing with age differences? Are online sites really practical and safe? Chocked full of tips for finding that elusive Right One, this book demystifies the sometimes baffling world of the modern dating scene. Dr. Browne, a clinical psychologist, discusses what to say (and what not to say) on a first date, how to gracefully bow out of a date that’s just not working, and how to figure out exactly what we want in a potential mate or a causal date.
Where else would we look for advice on SEX FOR DUMMIES than Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer? Written with Pierre A. Lehu, the diminutive dynamo pulls no punches in discussing how to enhance foreplay, talk to our kids about sex, and avoid STDs. Dr. Ruth debunks old, outmoded beliefs with the usual frank and non-judgmental style we’ve come to expect from her. There are things that may be considered shocking, like Westheimer’s take on date rape.
Now that we’re in the groove, throw into your cart RELATIONSHIPS FOR DUMMIES. Dr. Kate M. Wachs is known as a “matchmaker-psychologist,” and an AOL personality. This is part advice column, part workbook, and would be ideal for couples to read together.
In short, what we learn from this illuminating memoir, this poignant novel, and these frank self-help books is that love can be both rewarding and painful; being open and honest is our best bet for lasting happiness. Or at least some pretty great memories. To purchase any of the featured books, click on the title in red.
Michall Jeffers is an accomplished Cultural Journalist and an avowed bibliophile. She writes extensively, both in print and online. Her eponymous cable TV show is syndicated throughout the tri-state area, and features celebrity interviews, reviews, and commentary. Michall is a voting member of National Book Critics Circle. www.michalljeffers.com
