Title: Manners Matter
Author: Hermine Hartley
Publication Information: Barbour Publishing, Incorporated (December 1, 2002) , 208 pgs.
Genre: Reference/Etiquette/General
Explanation/Summary:
From the back cover:
“How Rude!” The votes are in. Studies show that we’re in agreement — Americans have established an impersonal and inconsiderate culture. Beyond the behavior of poorly-trained children, adults seem to be living the Golden Rule backwards — as if we should “Do to others, before they do it to you!” Where society needs kindness and consideration, too often we find only more bad manners.
In this timely and easy-to-read book, author Hermine Hartley offers real-life advice on the importance of respect in our modern high-tech, fast-paced society. You’ll find guidance on key topics such as:
-table manners
-telephone etiquette
-”Netiquette”
-tips and gratuities
-appropriate conversation
-business manners
-and much more
For “kids of all ages,” Manners Matter will give you both the how and the why of living out the Golden Rule — and making your world a better place.
Analysis and Evaluation:
Did the author achieve his or her purpose?
Yes, this book explains the rules of etiquette, gives instruction about how to follow the rule, and then a short blurb on why that rule exists. I thought it was a good “refresher” course on manners for those who have previously been taught. I also think it is an excellent starting point for parents to use in teaching their children about manners.
Is the writing effective, powerful, difficult, beautiful?
The writing is simple. Yet it is written in gentle way so it does not come across as preachy, but rather as helpful advice. It took me about an hour and a-half to read. There are occasional illustrations in the book that children will find fun to study.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the book?
The strength is that it delivers the rules of etiquette in a gentle and pleasing manner.
The weakness — is the cover picture. I do not appreciate having to look at a pouty, grumpy kid.
What is your overall response to the book? Did you find it interesting, moving, dull?
My response is to use the book as a teaching tool. I am planning on using this as a read aloud with my boys in the next few months. I think if we cover a chapter every couple of weeks we will be able to 1) read what the author says, 2) have some discussion time, and 3) practice the lesson discussed.
Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, as I mentioned earlier, I thought it was a great refresher course for me. And I think Miss Manners is probably the only person who doesn’t need a refresher course on manners. Also, as I mentioned earlier, I think this is a great starting point for parents to instruct their children on manners. I say, add it to your “want to read” list today.
Grade: A
Other comments that don’t fit into the above answers: Being married to a man who could win a number of belching contests and says “farting is always funny” is certainly a challenge. Especially as it pertains to being a mother who is trying to teach her boys to have manners.
HOWEVER, I have seen that children with polite manners are treated differently. When my children give respect by saying, “Yes, ma’am” to the women at the bank, they recieve a return of respect and immediately they are admired and appreciated by most observers. While having good manners won’t solve all of their life problems, I believe it will give them a head start when they are friendly, confident, kind, and sincere in their dealings with other adults. I think they will come to know that, indeed, Manners Matter.
This sounds like a book that I need to add to my list. My son could really use it too. I may do what you’re going to do over this coming summer.
I’ve seen this book in the store and wondered if it was any good. Like you, I don’t like the grumpy girl on the cover and I think I’ve been judging the book by the cover.
I may try to snag a copy. My boys are usually good, but sometimes they aren’t and can’t understand why they need to use good manners.