The Gentleman's Guide to Life: What Every Guy Should Know about Living Large, Loving Well, Feeling Strong and L Ooking Good

I've bought several copies over the years and given them to men friends as a guide to *start* improving themselves when they don't want to be "Bubbas" any more, and all have appreciated the gift (and started learning). When my boyfriend and I were on multi-hour road trips, I'd read aloud as he drove, and we both enjoyed it. A single example from the book: the author suggests you pick a particular year for wine, and sample a number of offerings. Well, due to our timing (and his recommendation), we picked 1995, which we have since found to be an exceptional year for red wines. Due to sampling many Northwest wines from that year, we developed (we like to think) a good idea of what was good and not-so-good in 1995s. We applied that gained experience to wines from 1998, 2000, and 2002 (all considered good years) and, through practice, defined what we expected from a good wine. Yes, the book gives you a framework on which to hang the rags of your knowledge, but then you can fill in and expand that knowledge based on that framework. It gives you a great starting point.

The author makes some really valid statements that are right on and easy on the eyes. He distills the subject matter into a highly potent brew that can help any of us, who were not born into the "lifestyles of the rich and famous" to at least not make a fool out of ourselves when placed into situations requiring some finnesse. I have read it a number of times. His wit alone is worth the cost of the book. If you like to read GQ and want to become more than what you are then I highly suggest this book for you. Most of the other reviewers seem to be down on this book. I don't understand why. I really liked it. I read it twice. Here is a quote: (When asking about wines...) "Do not say, 'What's your best stuff?' "Do say, 'I know we'd like a pinot noir. Would you recommend a domestic or French? What's the best value?' You are conveying some basic knowledge, a big dollip of humility, and a genuine concern that you not spend the month's rent on drinks. The sommelier will appreciate this and do you right." This is my kind of book. To the point, and offering guidelines for actionable pleasures.

Truly an excellent read. It's so simple and commonsensical that even the most mentally challenged person could read it. It teaches you how to be a man--pure and simple. Frederique, the supermodel, had this to say about the book: "I know what men want. If they read this book, they're much more likely to get it." Now that says somethin, baby. It teaches you how to get ahead in life without being a jerk or a kiss-#$%. GO AND DO LIKEWISE!

This book is great. Given to me by a fraternity brother, the advice inside is wonderful. Although I disagree on a few points about drinking and feel I could have written about 3/4 of the book myself, Friedman combines great humor with priceless hints. How and when to wear a double breasted suit, tips on dating, and much much more.

From love, relationships, and commitment to socks, dry cleaning and personal hygiene, Mr. Friedman reallys gives some great advice. While his is telling you the truth about the way to behave as a man, he is entertaining and also truthful. He balances what we might want to do with what we should do. Great reading!