Helpful Score: 2
Not sure what I was hoping to discover from this book. One thing I did notice is that it is a reproduction of the original, that was originally published in 1938. That explains some of the phrases that are used. It gives a few tidbits for behavior and courtesies. It's an easy read, but can easily be put down.
Helpful Score: 2
A rather humorous take on things, these days, as it was originally written back in 1938. On the other hand, there are some things in here that I wish we saw more of these days, in our dialy society that lacks grace, class, and general sense of propriety. (Just my two cents.)
This copy is actually hardback, but I could not locate an ISBN number for it.
This copy is actually hardback, but I could not locate an ISBN number for it.
Helpful Score: 1
Tries to cover too much territory in too little space. Almost no depth at all. Most of these things I knew before. Fashion advice is in direct conflict with modern advice (e.g., "What Not To Wear"). Not much help for the overweight, either. I'm glad I didn't pay for it.
Heather H. (amazondotblonde) reviewed Better than Beauty: A Guide to Charm on + 59 more book reviews
I very cutge little gift book woth all sorts of ideas on how to be charming.
Loved this book! It's written in 1938, so some of the advice is dated, but you will be very surprised by how much of the information is still relevant. It's like your great grandmother sat you down for a heart-to-heart. Refreshingly frank, pragmatic, and fun to read artifact from another era.
Glib advice given in generalities, for the most part. A few good nuggets.
First published in 1938, this delightful handbook is overflowing with timeless advice to guide readers through a maze of social interactions with wit and grace. More than an etiquette or personal grooming book, Better than Beauty tackles complicated social situations with delicacy: How to be kind to atrocious people How to avoid the gossip mill How many drinks is too many drinks How to deflect unwanted advances from married men How much to tip And much, much more With good humor, authors Helen Valentine and Alice Thompson offer straightforward charm counsel, making it a cinch to win the admiration of friends, family, and suitors. Featuring original artwork, Better than Beauty proves that charm never, ever goes out of style.
Not worth reading.
Overall very good common sense guidelines for women and girls. Reminds you and teaches you good manners and a practical guide on how to be a lady in todays world.
Better Than Beauty was originally written in 1938 (for example, one section mentions having a date under three dollars-someting that would be difficult to pull off today), and thus this explains why some of the advice may seem dated. However, the charming drawings remain cute and original, and the advice can be applied to any decade.
Topics in Part One covered include how to dress, wear one's hair and look well-groomed. Part Two deals with manners, charm, relating to others, and how to be a good hostess/guest/all-around person.
A timeless, cute read that has a well-deserved place among etiquette books on today's bookshelves.
Topics in Part One covered include how to dress, wear one's hair and look well-groomed. Part Two deals with manners, charm, relating to others, and how to be a good hostess/guest/all-around person.
A timeless, cute read that has a well-deserved place among etiquette books on today's bookshelves.
