Friday, December 2, 2011

Don'ts for Wives

Move over, Dr. Laura! I discovered this little gem of a book on Petty's blog, Pen and Paper, in September. Enchanted by her review of it, I immediately ordered Don'ts for Wives from Amazon, received and read it, and have kept it on my nightstand ever since, reading a couple of pages often before bed to refresh my memory. Written by Blanche Ebbutt and first published in 1913, it's a charming book to read and contemplate. In the preface of the book, the author states that it takes a "perfect artist" to remain married (that could explain the high divorce rate), and then gives us her best tips for a solid marriage in the body of the book. Each statement in the book begins with the word "Don't". While some of it is antiquated (it was written nearly 100 years ago, in the days before women had much equality, during an era when wealthier people had servants), it's also fun to read, and full of sage advice, such as:

"Don't nag your husband. If he won't carry out your wishes for love of you, he certainly won't because you nag him."

How true! Throughout my marriage, I've always tried to avoid nagging my husband. If I tell him something once, I try not to mention it again, unless I absolutely must, because I know he hates to be nagged or "pushed". (For example, if his mother or another family member calls, I will ask him to return the call, but I'll only say it one time.)

Don'ts for Wives would be the perfect gift book for married women or for women who are about to tie the knot. The author also wrote a companion book, Don'ts for Husbands.

13 comments:

  1. This sounds like a cute little read, and I bet that I would enjoy flicking through the pages! I bet I would also love the book aimed at the husbands as well. Great review, Suko!

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  2. Petty is a really good source of entertaining book ideas isn't she?

    My husband and I have enjoyed this famous line we heard one day from one comedian:
    "My husband always has the last word in any argument in our house. He always says: YES, DEAR!

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  3. This sounds like something I should read. Great review!

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  4. I imagine this would be both educational and funny to read at the same time!

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  5. This sounds like an interesting book and an interesting look into the past.

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  6. This does sound cute :) I agree with the nagging advice.
    Nice post Suko!

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  7. Thanks for the mention, I'm glad you enjoyed this book as much as I did.

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  8. Sounds like many could benefit from this 100 year old collection.

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  9. I'm glad that you enjoyed this book so much! I've heard about it before but I must admit that I don't think it sounds like my type of book. Your review has convinced me that maybe I need to give it a try :)

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  10. It seems some advice does stand the test of time. Thanks for bringing the book to our attention.

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  11. I like this kind of book ! Always something to discover on oneself and to improve.

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  12. Very interesting blog. Alot of blogs I see these days don't really provide anything that I'm interested in, but I'm most definately interested in this one.

    British Food

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