The Maxims of Manhood: 100 Rules Every Real Man Must Live by

Having been a fan of Maxim for some time, I was glad to have found this book. It covers the gamet of being a man--it even tells you how to chug a beer. But beyond that partying cliche, is some really good advice, especially in regards to women. There are about 100 rules in the book and each could be put to everyday use. So glad I made this purchase. It will have a permanent place in my library, as well as How to Get a Girlfriend: Two Classic Dating Guides in One Volume-Understanding Women and How To Be The Man Women Want.

I'm a woman, and a writer, so I get skeptical when I see books about "what it is to be a man." However: I picked up Maxims and found it to be not only funny and well-written, but also edgy, intelligent and honest. Wilser offers the right combination of tongue-in-cheek fun and well-placed bawdiness, so that every once in a while, a hunk of solid, good advice cuts through the humor. Oddly enough, the book has also given me a disarming, affectionate understanding for all the lost dudes I know who are trying to grow up. It's an entertaining, compelling read, and I think it's ruined me for other man books.

This book is hysterical. Its a lighthearted gag on life as a male. At times its sincere and respectful, discussing chivalry and manners in the modern day, and at other times, its hilarious, going through the manners for a one-night stand. I started read and didn't put it down till I finished the book.

This book is hilarious! I ordered it for my husband and we had a great time taking turns reading aloud to each other. This is perfect reading for the subway, beach, airport, bathroom, etc. We liked it so much we've decided to buy a copy for my nephew when he graduates high school next month!

Admittedly, I originally purchased the book because I'm quoted in it. (Maxim #31, thankyouverymuch!) But after reading the entire thing, cover-to-cover, I've gotta say: Wilser is a damn good writer. The book isn't so much a list of rules for men as it is a smart, clever commentary on what society thinks men should be like. (At least, that's how I read it.) There are millions of gendered rule books out there. This isn't one of them. It's different. It's fresh. It's hilarious. What makes it so good is that he grabs cliches by the balls and puts his own spin on them, so they're no longer tired; instead, they're actually funny. It's laugh-out-loud material. Women will howl at his self-deprecation, and men will chuckle knowingly. Men will love this book because Wilser really gets it. He understands what it's like to be a man. And he articulates that very well. Women will love it because, despite all his testosterone, it still feels like he's on our side. :O)