50 Ways to Leave Your 40s: Living It Up in Life's Second Half

This was the year that I left my 40's behind and entered what I once considered to be the least desirable of all of life's decades, my 50's: Too young for Medicare and too old for women to care. But then I read this delightful little book and realized that my spirits need not sag, just because my buttock is starting to. "Fifty Ways to Leave Your Forties" is one of those fun books that you can dip into a little bit here, a little bit there, and come away refreshed with some new ideas, thoughts, and motivation for the day. But then again, once you pick it up, you may not want to put it down. Sheila Key writes with a breezy, upbeat style that sparkles. And like most guys my age who shun medical advice, let alone treatment, I found the contributions to the book by Dr. Peggy Spencer to be not only valuable and reassuring, but delivered in an entertaining and non-preachy style ... almost makes me want to bump up the date of my next colonoscopy (almost). I hope we'll see more from these two authors in the future; at least in another ten years, when the big six zero rolls around (now THAT's old!). -Jeff Yeager Author, The Ultimate Cheapskate's Road Map to True Riches

Have you ever hoped to meet the author of a book you really enjoyed, thinking that you're just bound to enjoy that person? And then, you actually meet that author and think, YUCK? Well, that's not the case with this book. If you are lucky enough to hang out with Sheila Key sometime and you're like me, you will come away thinking, "geez, not only has she actually LIVED this book, but she is a heck of a lot of fun, too." I know, because I've known Sheila for 20 years, and even though we haven't seen each other in about 10 years, I've looked forward every New Year's to receiving her cleverly homespun newsletters. Through them, I've watched her beautiful children grow and seen how Sheila's smiling face has somehow retained that youthful look of mischief mixed with excitement--no doubt related to some new and interesting pursuit. Sheila knows a thing or two about nurturing wonder, mental and physical health, creative stimulation, and a juicy existence. So I for one was thrilled when she told me about her book project. Having been her editor when she wrote for a newspaper, I grew accustomed to Sheila always exceeding my expectations (which are exceedingly high). And, since I was just entering my 50s and really needing such a book, I knew Sheila would not let me down. I've just started reading, and if I wait until I finish it to write a review, that could take some time. As I figured out after the first chapter, this isn't a book you skim through. It's one you dip into on a regular basis, drink in inspiration, and, thus recharged, go try something new--or remember that long-forgotten thing that brings you joy and lightens your step. I'll be back when I have more to report. For now, I just wanted to say I love this little book and am looking forward to knowing it better. As I slog through my long work days (finishing a book of my own), it is my reward at the end of one day--and an inspiration for the next. Gina Pera, author Is It You, Me, or Adult A.D.D.? Stoppingthe Roller Coaster When Someone You Love Has Attention Deficit Disorder ADHDRollerCoaster.com

What a consummate achievement this book is. Written by Sheila Key in a folksy, colloquial style, it imparts great wisdom to those who would like to know how to look at their 50's and beyond as a time of fulfillment and joy. Peggy Spencer also did a great job. I like the "doc in the box" feature - it adds intellectual and thought provoking elements to each of the "ways." I highly recommend you buy this book and enjoy!

Any mid-life reader will find plenty of enjoyable and worthwhile nuggets. You may not agree with all of the advice in this book but there is wide range of topics and they are all delivered with much wit and wisdom. The author plays the role of a good friend who is telling you just what you need to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear. The truth is cushioned with optimism and humor and floats to the surface in bite sized pieces. Instead of telling your best friend that they need to floss, watch less TV, get a prostate exam or unwind with a road trip-- give them this book and let it do the work of telling the truth with pizzazz. By the way, get your own copy because you need the same counsel.

Sheila Key's good nature, warmth, and wonderful humor sparkle on every page, and Peggy Spencer's wise advice balances it perfectly. This book is one of the best gifts you'll ever give any 50-something friend...or yourself.