It Takes Two: The Joy of Intimate Marriage

This book is so good that I ordered four of them to give as gifts! Like many of the better books on relationships, this one is written by a couple, so it includes both partners' points of view. Many of the topics covered are standard: communication, conflict, authority, sex, and intimacy. But there are also topics not found in similar books, for example, creating a mutual story, fairness and forgiveness, and making covenants for change.The Lesters share stories from their experience as a pastoral counselor and a family therapist to illustrate what they are talking about. They also ask the partners reading the book to give honest answers to probing questions -- and to discuss their answers with one another. Their supportive use of Christian scriptures may be a turn off to some readers, but people who are even just a little religious will find that it adds to the book's value.What makes this book so helpful is that it is based on solid ideas, it is well written, and it gives sound advice. It will also have a special appeal to people who are interested in a Christian marriage but don't want to be preached at.