The Secret and The Scam, 11 Oct 2008
A friend of mine bought me this book for my birthday, explaining that it was a best selling spiritual read, so I was looking forward to what it had to say. I can honestly say I was unimpressed from the start. There was this build to this huge life changing 'secret' and it was like waiting for a huge explosion that never actually went off.

This whole Secret is based on wishful, dillusional thnking. It claims that if you want to have money, believe that you will have money and it will come to you. If you want to lose weight, believe that you're losing weight and it will happen. It rarely ever mentions that you have to put work in for these things to happen. In a good way this book does allow people to focus on what they want in life and to focus on the positive, but having a good life, having money and having good relationships requires some work on our part, not just repeating something in our heads and hoping the Universe will deliver. That's just lazy thinking. I gained a lot more from listening to Anthony Robbins CD's then I did from this book. And yes, I'm aware that he's in it for the money too.

This book also spent a lot of time advertising the film version, so there are a lot of people making getting rich from this book. Unfortunately it won't be the readers.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, 10 Oct 2008
The Secret is an outward introduction and explanation of how we think on the inside becomes what we experience on the outside, because what we think we mirror and attract. With this aim, the book hits the mark.

If you are getting into personal development you will find the contents very easy to read, with superb explanations. The whole thing is gentle, encouraging, informative and uplifting.

People who have advanced and aligned themselves will find it does not give any new depth of knowledge, actual practice, or reference ordinary people who have achieved true creation and expansion; I will offer this advancement to you soon. As far as the book is concerned, it is a mirror, mirror on the wall image and introduction and does what it says on the cover.

It is a necessary read and why I recommend five stars. Ho! and also because the mirror, mirror on the wall will reflect the most harmonious, wealthy and happy of them all, You.

Michael Whitenburgh
Psychoanalyst
Window on the Mind


Flawed, 05 Oct 2008
As much as former England football team manager Glenn Hoddle's downfall came when he blamed disability on bad karma from actions in the past life, the success of this book is pivotal on the same point? On the basis of the success of this book, was Tony Blair wrong to vehemently criticise Hoddle.

Now this didn't bother me at first but the more I thought about it the more I found it hard to palette when the book talks about everything that has happened to you, you have attracted with your thoughts, including the bad things. There is nothing wrong in wanting to manifest a better life, but the elements within the book are basic.

There are some rudimentary errors within the book, metaphors are incorrectly used and the author's claims to be knowledgeable in quantum physics are sketchy.

Without hesitation I would far more recommend The Astonishing Power of Emotions: Let Your Feelings Be Your Guide or The Ultimate Guide to Cosmic Ordering - Empower Your Destiny: Take Control of Your Life (Book & CD)by Andronicos Andronicou or Cosmic Ordering Guide: Where Dreams Can Become Reality by Stephen Richards.


Excellent, 01 Oct 2008
First of all, I prefer the DVD to the book (I have both), but having read the previous reviews I felt compelled to write a review myself.

I have been using these kind of techniques ever since I went to see Tony Robbins, but this puts it into very easy to understand principles that I use everyday. So much so that I have bought it for loads of copies of the DVD for family and friends. I should get a discount by now!

The key that previous reviewers have been missing is that if you use the law of attraction ALONG with taking action, then your success will come. Positive thinking has been around for years, but this takes it to the next level i.e. visioning EXACTLY the outcome you want in any situation, and even better - write it down.

If you are going for a job use it with Expert's Guide Interview Skills DVD which is also on Amazon. Both are fantastic. Job Interview Skills - Extended DVD & CD

Why The Secret is Bollocks and Rhonda Byrne writes Rubbish, 21 Sep 2008
Success depends on talent and hard work.

The idea that things mysteriously arrive on your plate just because you want them to, is the biggest load of twaddle inflicted on vulnerable people. It is true that some people do not know how good they are. It is equally true, listening to auditions for the X factor, that the vast majority of people do not understand their limitations and as a result make a complete arse of themselves.

Following this book is like listening to someone who is tone deaf singing Karoake - it doesn't work. If you have talent and if you work hard, you will succeed. If you believe that the voodoo of the universe will mysteriously make things happen, because you believe it, you are stupider than you look and deserve to do badly.

Yes being optimistic helps, but only if you have grounds for optimism. Yes knowing your talent helps but only if you can find a way to apply it. Simply being alive, will not make you a success.

Save your money and buy a lottery ticket. It will do you more good, because at least you have a chance of winning the lottery.

The Secret and The Scam, 11 Oct 2008
A friend of mine bought me this book for my birthday, explaining that it was a best selling spiritual read, so I was looking forward to what it had to say. I can honestly say I was unimpressed from the start. There was this build to this huge life changing 'secret' and it was like waiting for a huge explosion that never actually went off.

This whole Secret is based on wishful, dillusional thnking. It claims that if you want to have money, believe that you will have money and it will come to you. If you want to lose weight, believe that you're losing weight and it will happen. It rarely ever mentions that you have to put work in for these things to happen. In a good way this book does allow people to focus on what they want in life and to focus on the positive, but having a good life, having money and having good relationships requires some work on our part, not just repeating something in our heads and hoping the Universe will deliver. That's just lazy thinking. I gained a lot more from listening to Anthony Robbins CD's then I did from this book. And yes, I'm aware that he's in it for the money too.

This book also spent a lot of time advertising the film version, so there are a lot of people making getting rich from this book. Unfortunately it won't be the readers.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, 10 Oct 2008
The Secret is an outward introduction and explanation of how we think on the inside becomes what we experience on the outside, because what we think we mirror and attract. With this aim, the book hits the mark.

If you are getting into personal development you will find the contents very easy to read, with superb explanations. The whole thing is gentle, encouraging, informative and uplifting.

People who have advanced and aligned themselves will find it does not give any new depth of knowledge, actual practice, or reference ordinary people who have achieved true creation and expansion; I will offer this advancement to you soon. As far as the book is concerned, it is a mirror, mirror on the wall image and introduction and does what it says on the cover.

It is a necessary read and why I recommend five stars. Ho! and also because the mirror, mirror on the wall will reflect the most harmonious, wealthy and happy of them all, You.

Michael Whitenburgh
Psychoanalyst
Window on the Mind


Flawed, 05 Oct 2008
As much as former England football team manager Glenn Hoddle's downfall came when he blamed disability on bad karma from actions in the past life, the success of this book is pivotal on the same point? On the basis of the success of this book, was Tony Blair wrong to vehemently criticise Hoddle.

Now this didn't bother me at first but the more I thought about it the more I found it hard to palette when the book talks about everything that has happened to you, you have attracted with your thoughts, including the bad things. There is nothing wrong in wanting to manifest a better life, but the elements within the book are basic.

There are some rudimentary errors within the book, metaphors are incorrectly used and the author's claims to be knowledgeable in quantum physics are sketchy.

Without hesitation I would far more recommend The Astonishing Power of Emotions: Let Your Feelings Be Your Guide or The Ultimate Guide to Cosmic Ordering - Empower Your Destiny: Take Control of Your Life (Book & CD)by Andronicos Andronicou or Cosmic Ordering Guide: Where Dreams Can Become Reality by Stephen Richards.


Excellent, 01 Oct 2008
First of all, I prefer the DVD to the book (I have both), but having read the previous reviews I felt compelled to write a review myself.

I have been using these kind of techniques ever since I went to see Tony Robbins, but this puts it into very easy to understand principles that I use everyday. So much so that I have bought it for loads of copies of the DVD for family and friends. I should get a discount by now!

The key that previous reviewers have been missing is that if you use the law of attraction ALONG with taking action, then your success will come. Positive thinking has been around for years, but this takes it to the next level i.e. visioning EXACTLY the outcome you want in any situation, and even better - write it down.

If you are going for a job use it with Expert's Guide Interview Skills DVD which is also on Amazon. Both are fantastic. Job Interview Skills - Extended DVD & CD

Why The Secret is Bollocks and Rhonda Byrne writes Rubbish, 21 Sep 2008
Success depends on talent and hard work.

The idea that things mysteriously arrive on your plate just because you want them to, is the biggest load of twaddle inflicted on vulnerable people. It is true that some people do not know how good they are. It is equally true, listening to auditions for the X factor, that the vast majority of people do not understand their limitations and as a result make a complete arse of themselves.

Following this book is like listening to someone who is tone deaf singing Karoake - it doesn't work. If you have talent and if you work hard, you will succeed. If you believe that the voodoo of the universe will mysteriously make things happen, because you believe it, you are stupider than you look and deserve to do badly.

Yes being optimistic helps, but only if you have grounds for optimism. Yes knowing your talent helps but only if you can find a way to apply it. Simply being alive, will not make you a success.

Save your money and buy a lottery ticket. It will do you more good, because at least you have a chance of winning the lottery.

Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning

essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.

Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years

excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!

A must for those studying in early years, 03 Feb 2007
This book gives a brief outline of the most well known child development theorists. Studying for my foundation degree in childhood studies I refer to this book often as a start point for further research on a particuar theorist, or to find a theorist to make sence of my studies. Together with 'Theories of Childhood' by Carol Garhart Mooney I'm not worried about where to start looking for my research. I look at these! BUY IT.

According to Steven R. Covey, to live with security and wisdom, and to have the power to take advantages of the opportunities that change creates, we need fairness, integrity, honesty and human dignity. Quite a tall order when you consider that most of us live our lives in a permanent state of flux, questioning our ideals and values and fighting a daily battle with the lack of self-confidence that stops us from taking risks of any kind. But, in The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Covey manages to make it sound as if changing the way we look at ourselves and the world around us so that we can become more successful both personally and professionally an absolute doddle. He defines the "habits" as "the intersection of knowledge, skill and desire" and states that the "Seven Habits" of the title are not mutually exclusive, but rather when developed together help to form a well-rounded, sensitive, confident and effective human being.

As with many self-help books, much of what you read here is based on basic common sense and can at times be irritatingly obvious. However, what Covey manages to do so successfully is to break down the barriers which prevent all of us from taking a long hard look at ourselves, and then gradually introduces new rules which allow us to move first from dependence to independence and then towards the ultimate goal of interdependence. But of course, the only real way to test the value of The Habits--be proactive, begin with the end in mind, put first things first, think "win/win", seek first to understand and then to be understood, synergise, sharpen the saw-- is to work on them. This book is as good as any place to start on the road to self-awareness and self-improvement in the workplace and in the home without becoming too irritatingly smug and self-satisfied. --Susan Harrison

The Secret and The Scam, 11 Oct 2008
A friend of mine bought me this book for my birthday, explaining that it was a best selling spiritual read, so I was looking forward to what it had to say. I can honestly say I was unimpressed from the start. There was this build to this huge life changing 'secret' and it was like waiting for a huge explosion that never actually went off.

This whole Secret is based on wishful, dillusional thnking. It claims that if you want to have money, believe that you will have money and it will come to you. If you want to lose weight, believe that you're losing weight and it will happen. It rarely ever mentions that you have to put work in for these things to happen. In a good way this book does allow people to focus on what they want in life and to focus on the positive, but having a good life, having money and having good relationships requires some work on our part, not just repeating something in our heads and hoping the Universe will deliver. That's just lazy thinking. I gained a lot more from listening to Anthony Robbins CD's then I did from this book. And yes, I'm aware that he's in it for the money too.

This book also spent a lot of time advertising the film version, so there are a lot of people making getting rich from this book. Unfortunately it won't be the readers.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, 10 Oct 2008
The Secret is an outward introduction and explanation of how we think on the inside becomes what we experience on the outside, because what we think we mirror and attract. With this aim, the book hits the mark.

If you are getting into personal development you will find the contents very easy to read, with superb explanations. The whole thing is gentle, encouraging, informative and uplifting.

People who have advanced and aligned themselves will find it does not give any new depth of knowledge, actual practice, or reference ordinary people who have achieved true creation and expansion; I will offer this advancement to you soon. As far as the book is concerned, it is a mirror, mirror on the wall image and introduction and does what it says on the cover.

It is a necessary read and why I recommend five stars. Ho! and also because the mirror, mirror on the wall will reflect the most harmonious, wealthy and happy of them all, You.

Michael Whitenburgh
Psychoanalyst
Window on the Mind


Flawed, 05 Oct 2008
As much as former England football team manager Glenn Hoddle's downfall came when he blamed disability on bad karma from actions in the past life, the success of this book is pivotal on the same point? On the basis of the success of this book, was Tony Blair wrong to vehemently criticise Hoddle.

Now this didn't bother me at first but the more I thought about it the more I found it hard to palette when the book talks about everything that has happened to you, you have attracted with your thoughts, including the bad things. There is nothing wrong in wanting to manifest a better life, but the elements within the book are basic.

There are some rudimentary errors within the book, metaphors are incorrectly used and the author's claims to be knowledgeable in quantum physics are sketchy.

Without hesitation I would far more recommend The Astonishing Power of Emotions: Let Your Feelings Be Your Guide or The Ultimate Guide to Cosmic Ordering - Empower Your Destiny: Take Control of Your Life (Book & CD)by Andronicos Andronicou or Cosmic Ordering Guide: Where Dreams Can Become Reality by Stephen Richards.


Excellent, 01 Oct 2008
First of all, I prefer the DVD to the book (I have both), but having read the previous reviews I felt compelled to write a review myself.

I have been using these kind of techniques ever since I went to see Tony Robbins, but this puts it into very easy to understand principles that I use everyday. So much so that I have bought it for loads of copies of the DVD for family and friends. I should get a discount by now!

The key that previous reviewers have been missing is that if you use the law of attraction ALONG with taking action, then your success will come. Positive thinking has been around for years, but this takes it to the next level i.e. visioning EXACTLY the outcome you want in any situation, and even better - write it down.

If you are going for a job use it with Expert's Guide Interview Skills DVD which is also on Amazon. Both are fantastic. Job Interview Skills - Extended DVD & CD

Why The Secret is Bollocks and Rhonda Byrne writes Rubbish, 21 Sep 2008
Success depends on talent and hard work.

The idea that things mysteriously arrive on your plate just because you want them to, is the biggest load of twaddle inflicted on vulnerable people. It is true that some people do not know how good they are. It is equally true, listening to auditions for the X factor, that the vast majority of people do not understand their limitations and as a result make a complete arse of themselves.

Following this book is like listening to someone who is tone deaf singing Karoake - it doesn't work. If you have talent and if you work hard, you will succeed. If you believe that the voodoo of the universe will mysteriously make things happen, because you believe it, you are stupider than you look and deserve to do badly.

Yes being optimistic helps, but only if you have grounds for optimism. Yes knowing your talent helps but only if you can find a way to apply it. Simply being alive, will not make you a success.

Save your money and buy a lottery ticket. It will do you more good, because at least you have a chance of winning the lottery.

Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning

essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.

Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years

excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!

A must for those studying in early years, 03 Feb 2007
This book gives a brief outline of the most well known child development theorists. Studying for my foundation degree in childhood studies I refer to this book often as a start point for further research on a particuar theorist, or to find a theorist to make sence of my studies. Together with 'Theories of Childhood' by Carol Garhart Mooney I'm not worried about where to start looking for my research. I look at these! BUY IT.

A hard, but worthwhile read., 13 Oct 2008
Its easy to see why this book has been so successful for so long.
This is the first `Self Improvement' book I ever read. At the time, I was stuck in a dead end job with very few prospects thoroughly miserable.
This book showed me that life is not about `have too's' and `must do's' but about `choices'. Its only when you realise this that you can truly take hold of your life.
Habit 2 which covers time management is truly inspirational.
Since reading this book in 2002, I have more that tripled my income and halved the amount of hours a week I spend doing so.
This book is a hard slog of a read sometimes but stick with it and it may change your life!


Not an E-Z read., 08 Oct 2008
For a personal change book, I found it rather a hard read. The book to me is, well, complicated. The seven habits make sense and all, but the whole process seems to involve making layers of change, with each layer being a whole book in itself. Not a very quick read, and I'm not saying its not worthwhile and all, it's more a book that you have to be willing to work with. Readers who like less sophisticated personal change books might enjoy The Sixty-Second Motivator.


Nonsense of the highest order, 25 Aug 2008
While working for a previous company, I was sent on this course (which included reading the book). I'm sure the company meant well, but my experience of the "7 Habits of Highly Effective People", was essentially teaching people how to suck eggs.

Stephen R. Covey has made a personal fortune out of selling what most critical thinkers realise for themselves at an early age. His writings are bland and uninteresting, telling us what we already know in a language barely recognisable as English. "Synergize", "leverage", "win-win"; I'm sure you've heard them before. They are all here. Do they mean anything? In my humble opinion - not in the slightest.

Steer clear.

Stil the most influential self improvement book I've read, 16 Jul 2008
This is the one book I unfailingly recommend to others who want to be more successful in work or life in general.
I've read it several times and still find its ideas central to how I go about things in life. Hence buying it for a friend just now!
Covey makes a compelling (and welcome) case for the substance of real character over the cult of projected and perceived personality as the 'secret' to sustainable success in life.

The Key, 30 Jun 2008
Trying not to use the phrase "paradigm shift" is almost impossible when talking about this book. If you've not heard of this, then you need to get out more.

Seven Habits is a wonderful book that will change your life if you let it. Now, the key is in the title: Habits. Not whims, but habits. You have to keep at what the book talks about and while the book is geared toward those who want success, it is not geared toward happiness. Think they're the same? No. Read the book and you'll see why.

Still, this comes highly recommended from a lot of sources. Covey basically gives you a recipe for success. Having read some of the negative reviews I can only assume those people don't want success or aren't capable of concentrating their attention on the goals at hand long enough. I would also recommend "Life Strategies" by McGraw as another excellent source of inspiration.

The Secret and The Scam, 11 Oct 2008
A friend of mine bought me this book for my birthday, explaining that it was a best selling spiritual read, so I was looking forward to what it had to say. I can honestly say I was unimpressed from the start. There was this build to this huge life changing 'secret' and it was like waiting for a huge explosion that never actually went off.

This whole Secret is based on wishful, dillusional thnking. It claims that if you want to have money, believe that you will have money and it will come to you. If you want to lose weight, believe that you're losing weight and it will happen. It rarely ever mentions that you have to put work in for these things to happen. In a good way this book does allow people to focus on what they want in life and to focus on the positive, but having a good life, having money and having good relationships requires some work on our part, not just repeating something in our heads and hoping the Universe will deliver. That's just lazy thinking. I gained a lot more from listening to Anthony Robbins CD's then I did from this book. And yes, I'm aware that he's in it for the money too.

This book also spent a lot of time advertising the film version, so there are a lot of people making getting rich from this book. Unfortunately it won't be the readers.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, 10 Oct 2008
The Secret is an outward introduction and explanation of how we think on the inside becomes what we experience on the outside, because what we think we mirror and attract. With this aim, the book hits the mark.

If you are getting into personal development you will find the contents very easy to read, with superb explanations. The whole thing is gentle, encouraging, informative and uplifting.

People who have advanced and aligned themselves will find it does not give any new depth of knowledge, actual practice, or reference ordinary people who have achieved true creation and expansion; I will offer this advancement to you soon. As far as the book is concerned, it is a mirror, mirror on the wall image and introduction and does what it says on the cover.

It is a necessary read and why I recommend five stars. Ho! and also because the mirror, mirror on the wall will reflect the most harmonious, wealthy and happy of them all, You.

Michael Whitenburgh
Psychoanalyst
Window on the Mind


Flawed, 05 Oct 2008
As much as former England football team manager Glenn Hoddle's downfall came when he blamed disability on bad karma from actions in the past life, the success of this book is pivotal on the same point? On the basis of the success of this book, was Tony Blair wrong to vehemently criticise Hoddle.

Now this didn't bother me at first but the more I thought about it the more I found it hard to palette when the book talks about everything that has happened to you, you have attracted with your thoughts, including the bad things. There is nothing wrong in wanting to manifest a better life, but the elements within the book are basic.

There are some rudimentary errors within the book, metaphors are incorrectly used and the author's claims to be knowledgeable in quantum physics are sketchy.

Without hesitation I would far more recommend The Astonishing Power of Emotions: Let Your Feelings Be Your Guide or The Ultimate Guide to Cosmic Ordering - Empower Your Destiny: Take Control of Your Life (Book & CD)by Andronicos Andronicou or Cosmic Ordering Guide: Where Dreams Can Become Reality by Stephen Richards.


Excellent, 01 Oct 2008
First of all, I prefer the DVD to the book (I have both), but having read the previous reviews I felt compelled to write a review myself.

I have been using these kind of techniques ever since I went to see Tony Robbins, but this puts it into very easy to understand principles that I use everyday. So much so that I have bought it for loads of copies of the DVD for family and friends. I should get a discount by now!

The key that previous reviewers have been missing is that if you use the law of attraction ALONG with taking action, then your success will come. Positive thinking has been around for years, but this takes it to the next level i.e. visioning EXACTLY the outcome you want in any situation, and even better - write it down.

If you are going for a job use it with Expert's Guide Interview Skills DVD which is also on Amazon. Both are fantastic. Job Interview Skills - Extended DVD & CD

Why The Secret is Bollocks and Rhonda Byrne writes Rubbish, 21 Sep 2008
Success depends on talent and hard work.

The idea that things mysteriously arrive on your plate just because you want them to, is the biggest load of twaddle inflicted on vulnerable people. It is true that some people do not know how good they are. It is equally true, listening to auditions for the X factor, that the vast majority of people do not understand their limitations and as a result make a complete arse of themselves.

Following this book is like listening to someone who is tone deaf singing Karoake - it doesn't work. If you have talent and if you work hard, you will succeed. If you believe that the voodoo of the universe will mysteriously make things happen, because you believe it, you are stupider than you look and deserve to do badly.

Yes being optimistic helps, but only if you have grounds for optimism. Yes knowing your talent helps but only if you can find a way to apply it. Simply being alive, will not make you a success.

Save your money and buy a lottery ticket. It will do you more good, because at least you have a chance of winning the lottery.

Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning

essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.

Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years

excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!

A must for those studying in early years, 03 Feb 2007
This book gives a brief outline of the most well known child development theorists. Studying for my foundation degree in childhood studies I refer to this book often as a start point for further research on a particuar theorist, or to find a theorist to make sence of my studies. Together with 'Theories of Childhood' by Carol Garhart Mooney I'm not worried about where to start looking for my research. I look at these! BUY IT.

A hard, but worthwhile read., 13 Oct 2008
Its easy to see why this book has been so successful for so long.
This is the first `Self Improvement' book I ever read. At the time, I was stuck in a dead end job with very few prospects thoroughly miserable.
This book showed me that life is not about `have too's' and `must do's' but about `choices'. Its only when you realise this that you can truly take hold of your life.
Habit 2 which covers time management is truly inspirational.
Since reading this book in 2002, I have more that tripled my income and halved the amount of hours a week I spend doing so.
This book is a hard slog of a read sometimes but stick with it and it may change your life!


Not an E-Z read., 08 Oct 2008
For a personal change book, I found it rather a hard read. The book to me is, well, complicated. The seven habits make sense and all, but the whole process seems to involve making layers of change, with each layer being a whole book in itself. Not a very quick read, and I'm not saying its not worthwhile and all, it's more a book that you have to be willing to work with. Readers who like less sophisticated personal change books might enjoy The Sixty-Second Motivator.


Nonsense of the highest order, 25 Aug 2008
While working for a previous company, I was sent on this course (which included reading the book). I'm sure the company meant well, but my experience of the "7 Habits of Highly Effective People", was essentially teaching people how to suck eggs.

Stephen R. Covey has made a personal fortune out of selling what most critical thinkers realise for themselves at an early age. His writings are bland and uninteresting, telling us what we already know in a language barely recognisable as English. "Synergize", "leverage", "win-win"; I'm sure you've heard them before. They are all here. Do they mean anything? In my humble opinion - not in the slightest.

Steer clear.

Stil the most influential self improvement book I've read, 16 Jul 2008
This is the one book I unfailingly recommend to others who want to be more successful in work or life in general.
I've read it several times and still find its ideas central to how I go about things in life. Hence buying it for a friend just now!
Covey makes a compelling (and welcome) case for the substance of real character over the cult of projected and perceived personality as the 'secret' to sustainable success in life.

The Key, 30 Jun 2008
Trying not to use the phrase "paradigm shift" is almost impossible when talking about this book. If you've not heard of this, then you need to get out more.

Seven Habits is a wonderful book that will change your life if you let it. Now, the key is in the title: Habits. Not whims, but habits. You have to keep at what the book talks about and while the book is geared toward those who want success, it is not geared toward happiness. Think they're the same? No. Read the book and you'll see why.

Still, this comes highly recommended from a lot of sources. Covey basically gives you a recipe for success. Having read some of the negative reviews I can only assume those people don't want success or aren't capable of concentrating their attention on the goals at hand long enough. I would also recommend "Life Strategies" by McGraw as another excellent source of inspiration.

loads of great pointers, 18 Feb 2008
How to talk to anyone is written in a straight forward way, giving you tips on how to carry good conversations. It highlights things that, when you think about it, is very very true, especially when you think of people you DONT like speaking with, but dont really see why not.

nice short chapters that lets you pick up a few things every time you pick up the book.

P-E-R-F-E-C-T!!!, 22 Aug 2007
Another new bestseller which I love and recommend - How to be a Super Hot Woman: 339 Tips to Make Every Man Fall in Love with You and Every Woman Envy You
by Mandy Simons

Great books!

The best book of its genre, 05 Sep 2006
I've read various books on developing interpersonal skills, and this is the best of the lot by far. I was really surprised with how comprehensive, detailed, and indeed practical the advice given in this book is, you certainly get your money's worth. Most books on this subject seem a little lightweight, recycled, and you get the feeling you've read it all before in magazine articles etc. The only other book that comes close to this I think is the classic 'How to win friends and influence people', but I get the impression that everybody has read this book now and understands the principles described in it. 'How to talk to anybody' goes beyond this, providing the practical advice that will give you that extra edge you need in the modern world. I've certainly found that it has helped me a great deal.

reader, loughborough, UK, 25 Jun 2006
Y'all this book is awesome! It just gets better by the page. Most of the things written in it are things you already know but didn't necessarily consider important. It doesn't just tell you what they are but how to use it, and it also gives a few examples of the writer's personal experiences to enable you visualise where the idea comes from. If you're a shy person like me who's dying to comfortably talk to someone new you meet or are trying to get the attention of your friends and colleagues...then this is definately the book for you. Personally the rating here isn't enough to convey how good the book is, or maybe i'm just crap at communicating...but you'll never know if you do not read the book!

How to Talk to Anyone is Fantastic, 14 Aug 2005
Hey there,
I absolutely loved this book. I still read it every so often and it has given me confidence in situations where I would be totally at loss.
The best aspect of this book is that it is very clear to understand and practical to accomplish the techniques.
It has also given me a greater understanding of how inadequate the social skills of those around me are... And how superior!!
The people that I once thought confident became social losers.
And those I thought were incapable became my role models.

5 stars goes to this book for teaching me social skills I had never been taught.
You see, as smart as I am, I never finished GCSE's and my life was very anti social before marrying my husband who is a doctor. I tried to go to university, I got in based on my SAT's in America, but never felt very comfortable around people. Obviously, after marriage, I was caught in a whirlwind of doctor cliques... and being the wife of a doctor. I had no idea how to handle the situation.
The techniques in this book gave me the confidence that I too could become a social butterfly even around the most educated of people.
Thank you very much Leil

The Secret and The Scam, 11 Oct 2008
A friend of mine bought me this book for my birthday, explaining that it was a best selling spiritual read, so I was looking forward to what it had to say. I can honestly say I was unimpressed from the start. There was this build to this huge life changing 'secret' and it was like waiting for a huge explosion that never actually went off.

This whole Secret is based on wishful, dillusional thnking. It claims that if you want to have money, believe that you will have money and it will come to you. If you want to lose weight, believe that you're losing weight and it will happen. It rarely ever mentions that you have to put work in for these things to happen. In a good way this book does allow people to focus on what they want in life and to focus on the positive, but having a good life, having money and having good relationships requires some work on our part, not just repeating something in our heads and hoping the Universe will deliver. That's just lazy thinking. I gained a lot more from listening to Anthony Robbins CD's then I did from this book. And yes, I'm aware that he's in it for the money too.

This book also spent a lot of time advertising the film version, so there are a lot of people making getting rich from this book. Unfortunately it won't be the readers.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, 10 Oct 2008
The Secret is an outward introduction and explanation of how we think on the inside becomes what we experience on the outside, because what we think we mirror and attract. With this aim, the book hits the mark.

If you are getting into personal development you will find the contents very easy to read, with superb explanations. The whole thing is gentle, encouraging, informative and uplifting.

People who have advanced and aligned themselves will find it does not give any new depth of knowledge, actual practice, or reference ordinary people who have achieved true creation and expansion; I will offer this advancement to you soon. As far as the book is concerned, it is a mirror, mirror on the wall image and introduction and does what it says on the cover.

It is a necessary read and why I recommend five stars. Ho! and also because the mirror, mirror on the wall will reflect the most harmonious, wealthy and happy of them all, You.

Michael Whitenburgh
Psychoanalyst
Window on the Mind


Flawed, 05 Oct 2008
As much as former England football team manager Glenn Hoddle's downfall came when he blamed disability on bad karma from actions in the past life, the success of this book is pivotal on the same point? On the basis of the success of this book, was Tony Blair wrong to vehemently criticise Hoddle.

Now this didn't bother me at first but the more I thought about it the more I found it hard to palette when the book talks about everything that has happened to you, you have attracted with your thoughts, including the bad things. There is nothing wrong in wanting to manifest a better life, but the elements within the book are basic.

There are some rudimentary errors within the book, metaphors are incorrectly used and the author's claims to be knowledgeable in quantum physics are sketchy.

Without hesitation I would far more recommend The Astonishing Power of Emotions: Let Your Feelings Be Your Guide or The Ultimate Guide to Cosmic Ordering - Empower Your Destiny: Take Control of Your Life (Book & CD)by Andronicos Andronicou or Cosmic Ordering Guide: Where Dreams Can Become Reality by Stephen Richards.


Excellent, 01 Oct 2008
First of all, I prefer the DVD to the book (I have both), but having read the previous reviews I felt compelled to write a review myself.

I have been using these kind of techniques ever since I went to see Tony Robbins, but this puts it into very easy to understand principles that I use everyday. So much so that I have bought it for loads of copies of the DVD for family and friends. I should get a discount by now!

The key that previous reviewers have been missing is that if you use the law of attraction ALONG with taking action, then your success will come. Positive thinking has been around for years, but this takes it to the next level i.e. visioning EXACTLY the outcome you want in any situation, and even better - write it down.

If you are going for a job use it with Expert's Guide Interview Skills DVD which is also on Amazon. Both are fantastic. Job Interview Skills - Extended DVD & CD

Why The Secret is Bollocks and Rhonda Byrne writes Rubbish, 21 Sep 2008
Success depends on talent and hard work.

The idea that things mysteriously arrive on your plate just because you want them to, is the biggest load of twaddle inflicted on vulnerable people. It is true that some people do not know how good they are. It is equally true, listening to auditions for the X factor, that the vast majority of people do not understand their limitations and as a result make a complete arse of themselves.

Following this book is like listening to someone who is tone deaf singing Karoake - it doesn't work. If you have talent and if you work hard, you will succeed. If you believe that the voodoo of the universe will mysteriously make things happen, because you believe it, you are stupider than you look and deserve to do badly.

Yes being optimistic helps, but only if you have grounds for optimism. Yes knowing your talent helps but only if you can find a way to apply it. Simply being alive, will not make you a success.

Save your money and buy a lottery ticket. It will do you more good, because at least you have a chance of winning the lottery.

Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning

essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.

Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years

excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!

A must for those studying in early years, 03 Feb 2007
This book gives a brief outline of the most well known child development theorists. Studying for my foundation degree in childhood studies I refer to this book often as a start point for further research on a particuar theorist, or to find a theorist to make sence of my studies. Together with 'Theories of Childhood' by Carol Garhart Mooney I'm not worried about where to start looking for my research. I look at these! BUY IT.

A hard, but worthwhile read., 13 Oct 2008
Its easy to see why this book has been so successful for so long.
This is the first `Self Improvement' book I ever read. At the time, I was stuck in a dead end job with very few prospects thoroughly miserable.
This book showed me that life is not about `have too's' and `must do's' but about `choices'. Its only when you realise this that you can truly take hold of your life.
Habit 2 which covers time management is truly inspirational.
Since reading this book in 2002, I have more that tripled my income and halved the amount of hours a week I spend doing so.
This book is a hard slog of a read sometimes but stick with it and it may change your life!


Not an E-Z read., 08 Oct 2008
For a personal change book, I found it rather a hard read. The book to me is, well, complicated. The seven habits make sense and all, but the whole process seems to involve making layers of change, with each layer being a whole book in itself. Not a very quick read, and I'm not saying its not worthwhile and all, it's more a book that you have to be willing to work with. Readers who like less sophisticated personal change books might enjoy The Sixty-Second Motivator.


Nonsense of the highest order, 25 Aug 2008
While working for a previous company, I was sent on this course (which included reading the book). I'm sure the company meant well, but my experience of the "7 Habits of Highly Effective People", was essentially teaching people how to suck eggs.

Stephen R. Covey has made a personal fortune out of selling what most critical thinkers realise for themselves at an early age. His writings are bland and uninteresting, telling us what we already know in a language barely recognisable as English. "Synergize", "leverage", "win-win"; I'm sure you've heard them before. They are all here. Do they mean anything? In my humble opinion - not in the slightest.

Steer clear.

Stil the most influential self improvement book I've read, 16 Jul 2008
This is the one book I unfailingly recommend to others who want to be more successful in work or life in general.
I've read it several times and still find its ideas central to how I go about things in life. Hence buying it for a friend just now!
Covey makes a compelling (and welcome) case for the substance of real character over the cult of projected and perceived personality as the 'secret' to sustainable success in life.

The Key, 30 Jun 2008
Trying not to use the phrase "paradigm shift" is almost impossible when talking about this book. If you've not heard of this, then you need to get out more.

Seven Habits is a wonderful book that will change your life if you let it. Now, the key is in the title: Habits. Not whims, but habits. You have to keep at what the book talks about and while the book is geared toward those who want success, it is not geared toward happiness. Think they're the same? No. Read the book and you'll see why.

Still, this comes highly recommended from a lot of sources. Covey basically gives you a recipe for success. Having read some of the negative reviews I can only assume those people don't want success or aren't capable of concentrating their attention on the goals at hand long enough. I would also recommend "Life Strategies" by McGraw as another excellent source of inspiration.

loads of great pointers, 18 Feb 2008
How to talk to anyone is written in a straight forward way, giving you tips on how to carry good conversations. It highlights things that, when you think about it, is very very true, especially when you think of people you DONT like speaking with, but dont really see why not.

nice short chapters that lets you pick up a few things every time you pick up the book.

P-E-R-F-E-C-T!!!, 22 Aug 2007
Another new bestseller which I love and recommend - How to be a Super Hot Woman: 339 Tips to Make Every Man Fall in Love with You and Every Woman Envy You
by Mandy Simons

Great books!

The best book of its genre, 05 Sep 2006
I've read various books on developing interpersonal skills, and this is the best of the lot by far. I was really surprised with how comprehensive, detailed, and indeed practical the advice given in this book is, you certainly get your money's worth. Most books on this subject seem a little lightweight, recycled, and you get the feeling you've read it all before in magazine articles etc. The only other book that comes close to this I think is the classic 'How to win friends and influence people', but I get the impression that everybody has read this book now and understands the principles described in it. 'How to talk to anybody' goes beyond this, providing the practical advice that will give you that extra edge you need in the modern world. I've certainly found that it has helped me a great deal.

reader, loughborough, UK, 25 Jun 2006
Y'all this book is awesome! It just gets better by the page. Most of the things written in it are things you already know but didn't necessarily consider important. It doesn't just tell you what they are but how to use it, and it also gives a few examples of the writer's personal experiences to enable you visualise where the idea comes from. If you're a shy person like me who's dying to comfortably talk to someone new you meet or are trying to get the attention of your friends and colleagues...then this is definately the book for you. Personally the rating here isn't enough to convey how good the book is, or maybe i'm just crap at communicating...but you'll never know if you do not read the book!

How to Talk to Anyone is Fantastic, 14 Aug 2005
Hey there,
I absolutely loved this book. I still read it every so often and it has given me confidence in situations where I would be totally at loss.
The best aspect of this book is that it is very clear to understand and practical to accomplish the techniques.
It has also given me a greater understanding of how inadequate the social skills of those around me are... And how superior!!
The people that I once thought confident became social losers.
And those I thought were incapable became my role models.

5 stars goes to this book for teaching me social skills I had never been taught.
You see, as smart as I am, I never finished GCSE's and my life was very anti social before marrying my husband who is a doctor. I tried to go to university, I got in based on my SAT's in America, but never felt very comfortable around people. Obviously, after marriage, I was caught in a whirlwind of doctor cliques... and being the wife of a doctor. I had no idea how to handle the situation.
The techniques in this book gave me the confidence that I too could become a social butterfly even around the most educated of people.
Thank you very much Leil

Who Else Wants to Change Their Life?, 20 Sep 2008
I'll be honest. I avoided this book for years. Then one day a good friend of mine (who is a Cambridge Rocket Scientist turned Internet Consulting Millionaire) said "hey did you ever read How to Win Friends and Influence People, that book's just amazing, it's hard to think of one that's better!" now put in the context that I've seen this guy pay $5000 for a book and MP3 course I naturally stopped and said "So you're telling me that this $20 or something book is worth more than the $5000 dollar courses? c'mon? no way?!?". He says: "Pretty much. Yes." As you can imagine I was then on tender hooks waiting for this to arrive I dove right in and....three months later (I do have a day job to hold down and kids to amuse ;-) ) Wow!...no...WOW! this is THE book. I've read a lot of self help books: this is the one that really changed my life. And not in weird unmeasurable ways, the advice in this book has been of practical help in almost all aspect of my life, personal, professional and social. Forget the myths around this book, buy it, read it and reap the rewards.

Essential Reading, 20 Sep 2008
For years, I'd tended to avoid this book, partly because of its cheesy title. However, I eventually decided to give it a try and I'm glad I did. Carnegie's great skill is in identifying how we can grow ourselves by interacting in a correct, responsible, ethical and empathetic way with other human beings.

Strange thing is, when you read much of his advice, you realise you knew it anyway, but that you'd somehow forgotten to act in that way. Simply try to act like some of his suggestions for a few days and I guarantee you will feel small but perceptible positive differences, and with the rise of the web and email, we are probably more in need of this advice than ever before. Give this book a try and I believe you won't be disappointed.

The Greatest Self-Help Book, 05 Sep 2008
This is the daddy of all self-help books. Many others are based on its teachings but few can match it for the clarity of its wonderful advice. It will build your self-confidence and help you to understand, relate to and influence other people. Highly recommended.

Mixed Feelings, 31 Jul 2008
This is a good book, no doubt about it. It was written a long time ago, but much of the advice contained within its pages is timeless and pertinent no matter what era we live in.

There is some advice in this book, though, that is a little dated. I feel just some of the tips for dealing with people would not work out the same way in today's world with current attitudes.

How To Win Friends And Influence People is definitely worth reading, but I think the reader really needs to analyze all the advice and adjust and tweak things a little to be useful in today's society.

Overall an excellent book.

How To Keep Your Man: And Keep Him For Good

Real Life Dramas - Volume One: 1

Darren G. Burton

One of the best books I read, 20 Jun 2008
I heard of this book few years ago and did mistake by not purchasing then.
This book is easy to understand and follow. Not preaching or teaching; just simple examples to get point across.

The Secret and The Scam, 11 Oct 2008
A friend of mine bought me this book for my birthday, explaining that it was a best selling spiritual read, so I was looking forward to what it had to say. I can honestly say I was unimpressed from the start. There was this build to this huge life changing 'secret' and it was like waiting for a huge explosion that never actually went off.

This whole Secret is based on wishful, dillusional thnking. It claims that if you want to have money, believe that you will have money and it will come to you. If you want to lose weight, believe that you're losing weight and it will happen. It rarely ever mentions that you have to put work in for these things to happen. In a good way this book does allow people to focus on what they want in life and to focus on the positive, but having a good life, having money and having good relationships requires some work on our part, not just repeating something in our heads and hoping the Universe will deliver. That's just lazy thinking. I gained a lot more from listening to Anthony Robbins CD's then I did from this book. And yes, I'm aware that he's in it for the money too.

This book also spent a lot of time advertising the film version, so there are a lot of people making getting rich from this book. Unfortunately it won't be the readers.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, 10 Oct 2008
The Secret is an outward introduction and explanation of how we think on the inside becomes what we experience on the outside, because what we think we mirror and attract. With this aim, the book hits the mark.

If you are getting into personal development you will find the contents very easy to read, with superb explanations. The whole thing is gentle, encouraging, informative and uplifting.

People who have advanced and aligned themselves will find it does not give any new depth of knowledge, actual practice, or reference ordinary people who have achieved true creation and expansion; I will offer this advancement to you soon. As far as the book is concerned, it is a mirror, mirror on the wall image and introduction and does what it says on the cover.

It is a necessary read and why I recommend five stars. Ho! and also because the mirror, mirror on the wall will reflect the most harmonious, wealthy and happy of them all, You.

Michael Whitenburgh
Psychoanalyst
Window on the Mind


Flawed, 05 Oct 2008
As much as former England football team manager Glenn Hoddle's downfall came when he blamed disability on bad karma from actions in the past life, the success of this book is pivotal on the same point? On the basis of the success of this book, was Tony Blair wrong to vehemently criticise Hoddle.

Now this didn't bother me at first but the more I thought about it the more I found it hard to palette when the book talks about everything that has happened to you, you have attracted with your thoughts, including the bad things. There is nothing wrong in wanting to manifest a better life, but the elements within the book are basic.

There are some rudimentary errors within the book, metaphors are incorrectly used and the author's claims to be knowledgeable in quantum physics are sketchy.

Without hesitation I would far more recommend The Astonishing Power of Emotions: Let Your Feelings Be Your Guide or The Ultimate Guide to Cosmic Ordering - Empower Your Destiny: Take Control of Your Life (Book & CD)by Andronicos Andronicou or Cosmic Ordering Guide: Where Dreams Can Become Reality by Stephen Richards.


Excellent, 01 Oct 2008
First of all, I prefer the DVD to the book (I have both), but having read the previous reviews I felt compelled to write a review myself.

I have been using these kind of techniques ever since I went to see Tony Robbins, but this puts it into very easy to understand principles that I use everyday. So much so that I have bought it for loads of copies of the DVD for family and friends. I should get a discount by now!

The key that previous reviewers have been missing is that if you use the law of attraction ALONG with taking action, then your success will come. Positive thinking has been around for years, but this takes it to the next level i.e. visioning EXACTLY the outcome you want in any situation, and even better - write it down.

If you are going for a job use it with Expert's Guide Interview Skills DVD which is also on Amazon. Both are fantastic. Job Interview Skills - Extended DVD & CD

Why The Secret is Bollocks and Rhonda Byrne writes Rubbish, 21 Sep 2008
Success depends on talent and hard work.

The idea that things mysteriously arrive on your plate just because you want them to, is the biggest load of twaddle inflicted on vulnerable people. It is true that some people do not know how good they are. It is equally true, listening to auditions for the X factor, that the vast majority of people do not understand their limitations and as a result make a complete arse of themselves.

Following this book is like listening to someone who is tone deaf singing Karoake - it doesn't work. If you have talent and if you work hard, you will succeed. If you believe that the voodoo of the universe will mysteriously make things happen, because you believe it, you are stupider than you look and deserve to do badly.

Yes being optimistic helps, but only if you have grounds for optimism. Yes knowing your talent helps but only if you can find a way to apply it. Simply being alive, will not make you a success.

Save your money and buy a lottery ticket. It will do you more good, because at least you have a chance of winning the lottery.

Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning

essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.

Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years

excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!

A must for those studying in early years, 03 Feb 2007
This book gives a brief outline of the most well known child development theorists. Studying for my foundation degree in childhood studies I refer to this book often as a start point for further research on a particuar theorist, or to find a theorist to make sence of my studies. Together with 'Theories of Childhood' by Carol Garhart Mooney I'm not worried about where to start looking for my research. I look at these! BUY IT.

A hard, but worthwhile read., 13 Oct 2008
Its easy to see why this book has been so successful for so long.
This is the first `Self Improvement' book I ever read. At the time, I was stuck in a dead end job with very few prospects thoroughly miserable.
This book showed me that life is not about `have too's' and `must do's' but about `choices'. Its only when you realise this that you can truly take hold of your life.
Habit 2 which covers time management is truly inspirational.
Since reading this book in 2002, I have more that tripled my income and halved the amount of hours a week I spend doing so.
This book is a hard slog of a read sometimes but stick with it and it may change your life!


Not an E-Z read., 08 Oct 2008
For a personal change book, I found it rather a hard read. The book to me is, well, complicated. The seven habits make sense and all, but the whole process seems to involve making layers of change, with each layer being a whole book in itself. Not a very quick read, and I'm not saying its not worthwhile and all, it's more a book that you have to be willing to work with. Readers who like less sophisticated personal change books might enjoy The Sixty-Second Motivator.


Nonsense of the highest order, 25 Aug 2008
While working for a previous company, I was sent on this course (which included reading the book). I'm sure the company meant well, but my experience of the "7 Habits of Highly Effective People", was essentially teaching people how to suck eggs.

Stephen R. Covey has made a personal fortune out of selling what most critical thinkers realise for themselves at an early age. His writings are bland and uninteresting, telling us what we already know in a language barely recognisable as English. "Synergize", "leverage", "win-win"; I'm sure you've heard them before. They are all here. Do they mean anything? In my humble opinion - not in the slightest.

Steer clear.

Stil the most influential self improvement book I've read, 16 Jul 2008
This is the one book I unfailingly recommend to others who want to be more successful in work or life in general.
I've read it several times and still find its ideas central to how I go about things in life. Hence buying it for a friend just now!
Covey makes a compelling (and welcome) case for the substance of real character over the cult of projected and perceived personality as the 'secret' to sustainable success in life.

The Key, 30 Jun 2008
Trying not to use the phrase "paradigm shift" is almost impossible when talking about this book. If you've not heard of this, then you need to get out more.

Seven Habits is a wonderful book that will change your life if you let it. Now, the key is in the title: Habits. Not whims, but habits. You have to keep at what the book talks about and while the book is geared toward those who want success, it is not geared toward happiness. Think they're the same? No. Read the book and you'll see why.

Still, this comes highly recommended from a lot of sources. Covey basically gives you a recipe for success. Having read some of the negative reviews I can only assume those people don't want success or aren't capable of concentrating their attention on the goals at hand long enough. I would also recommend "Life Strategies" by McGraw as another excellent source of inspiration.

loads of great pointers, 18 Feb 2008
How to talk to anyone is written in a straight forward way, giving you tips on how to carry good conversations. It highlights things that, when you think about it, is very very true, especially when you think of people you DONT like speaking with, but dont really see why not.

nice short chapters that lets you pick up a few things every time you pick up the book.

P-E-R-F-E-C-T!!!, 22 Aug 2007
Another new bestseller which I love and recommend - How to be a Super Hot Woman: 339 Tips to Make Every Man Fall in Love with You and Every Woman Envy You
by Mandy Simons

Great books!

The best book of its genre, 05 Sep 2006
I've read various books on developing interpersonal skills, and this is the best of the lot by far. I was really surprised with how comprehensive, detailed, and indeed practical the advice given in this book is, you certainly get your money's worth. Most books on this subject seem a little lightweight, recycled, and you get the feeling you've read it all before in magazine articles etc. The only other book that comes close to this I think is the classic 'How to win friends and influence people', but I get the impression that everybody has read this book now and understands the principles described in it. 'How to talk to anybody' goes beyond this, providing the practical advice that will give you that extra edge you need in the modern world. I've certainly found that it has helped me a great deal.

reader, loughborough, UK, 25 Jun 2006
Y'all this book is awesome! It just gets better by the page. Most of the things written in it are things you already know but didn't necessarily consider important. It doesn't just tell you what they are but how to use it, and it also gives a few examples of the writer's personal experiences to enable you visualise where the idea comes from. If you're a shy person like me who's dying to comfortably talk to someone new you meet or are trying to get the attention of your friends and colleagues...then this is definately the book for you. Personally the rating here isn't enough to convey how good the book is, or maybe i'm just crap at communicating...but you'll never know if you do not read the book!

How to Talk to Anyone is Fantastic, 14 Aug 2005
Hey there,
I absolutely loved this book. I still read it every so often and it has given me confidence in situations where I would be totally at loss.
The best aspect of this book is that it is very clear to understand and practical to accomplish the techniques.
It has also given me a greater understanding of how inadequate the social skills of those around me are... And how superior!!
The people that I once thought confident became social losers.
And those I thought were incapable became my role models.

5 stars goes to this book for teaching me social skills I had never been taught.
You see, as smart as I am, I never finished GCSE's and my life was very anti social before marrying my husband who is a doctor. I tried to go to university, I got in based on my SAT's in America, but never felt very comfortable around people. Obviously, after marriage, I was caught in a whirlwind of doctor cliques... and being the wife of a doctor. I had no idea how to handle the situation.
The techniques in this book gave me the confidence that I too could become a social butterfly even around the most educated of people.
Thank you very much Leil

Who Else Wants to Change Their Life?, 20 Sep 2008
I'll be honest. I avoided this book for years. Then one day a good friend of mine (who is a Cambridge Rocket Scientist turned Internet Consulting Millionaire) said "hey did you ever read How to Win Friends and Influence People, that book's just amazing, it's hard to think of one that's better!" now put in the context that I've seen this guy pay $5000 for a book and MP3 course I naturally stopped and said "So you're telling me that this $20 or something book is worth more than the $5000 dollar courses? c'mon? no way?!?". He says: "Pretty much. Yes." As you can imagine I was then on tender hooks waiting for this to arrive I dove right in and....three months later (I do have a day job to hold down and kids to amuse ;-) ) Wow!...no...WOW! this is THE book. I've read a lot of self help books: this is the one that really changed my life. And not in weird unmeasurable ways, the advice in this book has been of practical help in almost all aspect of my life, personal, professional and social. Forget the myths around this book, buy it, read it and reap the rewards.

Essential Reading, 20 Sep 2008
For years, I'd tended to avoid this book, partly because of its cheesy title. However, I eventually decided to give it a try and I'm glad I did. Carnegie's great skill is in identifying how we can grow ourselves by interacting in a correct, responsible, ethical and empathetic way with other human beings.

Strange thing is, when you read much of his advice, you realise you knew it anyway, but that you'd somehow forgotten to act in that way. Simply try to act like some of his suggestions for a few days and I guarantee you will feel small but perceptible positive differences, and with the rise of the web and email, we are probably more in need of this advice than ever before. Give this book a try and I believe you won't be disappointed.

The Greatest Self-Help Book, 05 Sep 2008
This is the daddy of all self-help books. Many others are based on its teachings but few can match it for the clarity of its wonderful advice. It will build your self-confidence and help you to understand, relate to and influence other people. Highly recommended.

Mixed Feelings, 31 Jul 2008
This is a good book, no doubt about it. It was written a long time ago, but much of the advice contained within its pages is timeless and pertinent no matter what era we live in.

There is some advice in this book, though, that is a little dated. I feel just some of the tips for dealing with people would not work out the same way in today's world with current attitudes.

How To Win Friends And Influence People is definitely worth reading, but I think the reader really needs to analyze all the advice and adjust and tweak things a little to be useful in today's society.

Overall an excellent book.

How To Keep Your Man: And Keep Him For Good

Real Life Dramas - Volume One: 1

Darren G. Burton

One of the best books I read, 20 Jun 2008
I heard of this book few years ago and did mistake by not purchasing then.
This book is easy to understand and follow. Not preaching or teaching; just simple examples to get point across.

Excellant!, 23 Feb 2007
I was given this book, before starting my NC child care and early education, i then used if for both my level 2 and 3 SVQ modern aprrentice, and found this much easier to use than books supplied on the course's. I say this book is a must have for anyone studying or wishing to study childcare.

Fantastic help for NVQ3, 27 Jun 2006
This book is really really helpful, I am currently working my way through my NVQ3 and ordered this book in the hope that it would provide more information than what is given in the child care and development book when breaking down the ages and stages of child development, especially in the cognitive and language development sections, which are covered in less detail in the other child care book. The way it is set out is clear and concise and also provides activity ideas too.

excellant, 02 May 2006
This book is a must for anyone doing courses in childcare.
It is written in clear and is very easy to understand. I have found it invaluable whilst attending my cache diploma course. I have even used it to assess my own children. This book focuses on all child development upto the age of 16.

A Must have, 03 Apr 2006
I'm currently in my 2nd year of the CACHE Diploma and this book is an absolute necessity. It features sections on all ages upto 16 years and a section on child development theory.
It is ideal for observations and assignments and is a must have for any student/practitioner.

Hopefully, it will come in handy for when I start University in September.

Brilliant for Child care practitioners and all., 16 Jun 2004
This book was a core book to use as part of my Cache diploma level three in childcare and education course at college 2 years ago. (I don't know what i would have done without it...)
The book contains sections regarding child development starting from birth to 8 years. I found this book really easy to use, furthermore, the language used in the book is also easy for us to understand and relate to.

I was particuarly impressed with the recommended actvities section for each age group situated within the book. Also there is a section on meeting the needs of all children including children with special educational needs which i thought was a good idea to include as i have a family member who has SEN and i also work with children with SEN too. This allowed me the opportunity to use some of the recommended actvities and helped me in the assistance of my assignments which are part of the course.

I am currently studying early childhood studies at university and i can reflect and refer to this book when needing information. I have told other students about this book and they are buying it.

The Secret and The Scam, 11 Oct 2008
A friend of mine bought me this book for my birthday, explaining that it was a best selling spiritual read, so I was looking forward to what it had to say. I can honestly say I was unimpressed from the start. There was this build to this huge life changing 'secret' and it was like waiting for a huge explosion that never actually went off.

This whole Secret is based on wishful, dillusional thnking. It claims that if you want to have money, believe that you will have money and it will come to you. If you want to lose weight, believe that you're losing weight and it will happen. It rarely ever mentions that you have to put work in for these things to happen. In a good way this book does allow people to focus on what they want in life and to focus on the positive, but having a good life, having money and having good relationships requires some work on our part, not just repeating something in our heads and hoping the Universe will deliver. That's just lazy thinking. I gained a lot more from listening to Anthony Robbins CD's then I did from this book. And yes, I'm aware that he's in it for the money too.

This book also spent a lot of time advertising the film version, so there are a lot of people making getting rich from this book. Unfortunately it won't be the readers.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, 10 Oct 2008
The Secret is an outward introduction and explanation of how we think on the inside becomes what we experience on the outside, because what we think we mirror and attract. With this aim, the book hits the mark.

If you are getting into personal development you will find the contents very easy to read, with superb explanations. The whole thing is gentle, encouraging, informative and uplifting.

People who have advanced and aligned themselves will find it does not give any new depth of knowledge, actual practice, or reference ordinary people who have achieved true creation and expansion; I will offer this advancement to you soon. As far as the book is concerned, it is a mirror, mirror on the wall image and introduction and does what it says on the cover.

It is a necessary read and why I recommend five stars. Ho! and also because the mirror, mirror on the wall will reflect the most harmonious, wealthy and happy of them all, You.

Michael Whitenburgh
Psychoanalyst
Window on the Mind


Flawed, 05 Oct 2008
As much as former England football team manager Glenn Hoddle's downfall came when he blamed disability on bad karma from actions in the past life, the success of this book is pivotal on the same point? On the basis of the success of this book, was Tony Blair wrong to vehemently criticise Hoddle.

Now this didn't bother me at first but the more I thought about it the more I found it hard to palette when the book talks about everything that has happened to you, you have attracted with your thoughts, including the bad things. There is nothing wrong in wanting to manifest a better life, but the elements within the book are basic.

There are some rudimentary errors within the book, metaphors are incorrectly used and the author's claims to be knowledgeable in quantum physics are sketchy.

Without hesitation I would far more recommend The Astonishing Power of Emotions: Let Your Feelings Be Your Guide or The Ultimate Guide to Cosmic Ordering - Empower Your Destiny: Take Control of Your Life (Book & CD)by Andronicos Andronicou or Cosmic Ordering Guide: Where Dreams Can Become Reality by Stephen Richards.


Excellent, 01 Oct 2008
First of all, I prefer the DVD to the book (I have both), but having read the previous reviews I felt compelled to write a review myself.

I have been using these kind of techniques ever since I went to see Tony Robbins, but this puts it into very easy to understand principles that I use everyday. So much so that I have bought it for loads of copies of the DVD for family and friends. I should get a discount by now!

The key that previous reviewers have been missing is that if you use the law of attraction ALONG with taking action, then your success will come. Positive thinking has been around for years, but this takes it to the next level i.e. visioning EXACTLY the outcome you want in any situation, and even better - write it down.

If you are going for a job use it with Expert's Guide Interview Skills DVD which is also on Amazon. Both are fantastic. Job Interview Skills - Extended DVD & CD

Why The Secret is Bollocks and Rhonda Byrne writes Rubbish, 21 Sep 2008
Success depends on talent and hard work.

The idea that things mysteriously arrive on your plate just because you want them to, is the biggest load of twaddle inflicted on vulnerable people. It is true that some people do not know how good they are. It is equally true, listening to auditions for the X factor, that the vast majority of people do not understand their limitations and as a result make a complete arse of themselves.

Following this book is like listening to someone who is tone deaf singing Karoake - it doesn't work. If you have talent and if you work hard, you will succeed. If you believe that the voodoo of the universe will mysteriously make things happen, because you believe it, you are stupider than you look and deserve to do badly.

Yes being optimistic helps, but only if you have grounds for optimism. Yes knowing your talent helps but only if you can find a way to apply it. Simply being alive, will not make you a success.

Save your money and buy a lottery ticket. It will do you more good, because at least you have a chance of winning the lottery.

Essential at any level, 11 Feb 2008
Great book, great for all levels - good mix of theorists, excellent links to more information. Good links to those who oppose the theorists cited and why - would recommend as a good basic book for any level of learning

essential for child related degree, 16 Nov 2007
I'm doing an early years degree and this book provides lots of basic, vital info about theorists. Well worth the money & easy to read with lots of visual info too.

Excellent Book, 26 Oct 2007
Really helped give me a basic outline of each theorists life and studies. Has been my bible for my foundation degree in early years

excellent for nvq3 childcare, 21 Oct 2007
very easy to read and understand making it ideal for nvq3 childcare a must! great!!

A must for those studying in early years, 03 Feb 2007
This book gives a brief outline of the most well known child development theorists. Studying for my foundation degree in childhood studies I refer to this book often as a start point for further research on a particuar theorist, or to find a theorist to make sence of my studies. Together with 'Theories of Childhood' by Carol Garhart Mooney I'm not worried about where to start looking for my research. I look at these! BUY IT.

A hard, but worthwhile read., 13 Oct 2008
Its easy to see why this book has been so successful for so long.
This is the first `Self Improvement' book I ever read. At the time, I was stuck in a dead end job with very few prospects thoroughly miserable.
This book showed me that life is not about `have too's' and `must do's' but about `choices'. Its only when you realise this that you can truly take hold of your life.
Habit 2 which covers time management is truly inspirational.
Since reading this book in 2002, I have more that tripled my income and halved the amount of hours a week I spend doing so.
This book is a hard slog of a read sometimes but stick with it and it may change your life!


Not an E-Z read., 08 Oct 2008
For a personal change book, I found it rather a hard read. The book to me is, well, complicated. The seven habits make sense and all, but the whole process seems to involve making layers of change, with each layer being a whole book in itself. Not a very quick read, and I'm not saying its not worthwhile and all, it's more a book that you have to be willing to work with. Readers who like less sophisticated personal change books might enjoy The Sixty-Second Motivator.


Nonsense of the highest order, 25 Aug 2008
While working for a previous company, I was sent on this course (which included reading the book). I'm sure the company meant well, but my experience of the "7 Habits of Highly Effective People", was essentially teaching people how to suck eggs.

Stephen R. Covey has made a personal fortune out of selling what most critical thinkers realise for themselves at an early age. His writings are bland and uninteresting, telling us what we already know in a language barely recognisable as English. "Synergize", "leverage", "win-win"; I'm sure you've heard them before. They are all here. Do they mean anything? In my humble opinion - not in the slightest.

Steer clear.

Stil the most influential self improvement book I've read, 16 Jul 2008
This is the one book I unfailingly recommend to others who want to be more successful in work or life in general.
I've read it several times and still find its ideas central to how I go about things in life. Hence buying it for a friend just now!
Covey makes a compelling (and welcome) case for the substance of real character over the cult of projected and perceived personality as the 'secret' to sustainable success in life.

The Key, 30 Jun 2008
Trying not to use the phrase "paradigm shift" is almost impossible when talking about this book. If you've not heard of this, then you need to get out more.

Seven Habits is a wonderful book that will change your life if you let it. Now, the key is in the title: Habits. Not whims, but habits. You have to keep at what the book talks about and while the book is geared toward those who want success, it is not geared toward happiness. Think they're the same? No. Read the book and you'll see why.

Still, this comes highly recommended from a lot of sources. Covey basically gives you a recipe for success. Having read some of the negative reviews I can only assume those people don't want success or aren't capable of concentrating their attention on the goals at hand long enough. I would also recommend "Life Strategies" by McGraw as another excellent source of inspiration.

loads of great pointers, 18 Feb 2008
How to talk to anyone is written in a straight forward way, giving you tips on how to carry good conversations. It highlights things that, when you think about it, is very very true, especially when you think of people you DONT like speaking with, but dont really see why not.

nice short chapters that lets you pick up a few things every time you pick up the book.

P-E-R-F-E-C-T!!!, 22 Aug 2007
Another new bestseller which I love and recommend - How to be a Super Hot Woman: 339 Tips to Make Every Man Fall in Love with You and Every Woman Envy You
by Mandy Simons

Great books!

The best book of its genre, 05 Sep 2006
I've read various books on developing interpersonal skills, and this is the best of the lot by far. I was really surprised with how comprehensive, detailed, and indeed practical the advice given in this book is, you certainly get your money's worth. Most books on this subject seem a little lightweight, recycled, and you get the feeling you've read it all before in magazine articles etc. The only other book that comes close to this I think is the classic 'How to win friends and influence people', but I get the impression that everybody has read this book now and understands the principles described in it. 'How to talk to anybody' goes beyond this, providing the practical advice that will give you that extra edge you need in the modern world. I've certainly found that it has helped me a great deal.

reader, loughborough, UK, 25 Jun 2006
Y'all this book is awesome! It just gets better by the page. Most of the things written in it are things you already know but didn't necessarily consider important. It doesn't just tell you what they are but how to use it, and it also gives a few examples of the writer's personal experiences to enable you visualise where the idea comes from. If you're a shy person like me who's dying to comfortably talk to someone new you meet or are trying to get the attention of your friends and colleagues...then this is definately the book for you. Personally the rating here isn't enough to convey how good the book is, or maybe i'm just crap at communicating...but you'll never know if you do not read the book!

How to Talk to Anyone is Fantastic, 14 Aug 2005
Hey there,
I absolutely loved this book. I still read it every so often and it has given me confidence in situations where I would be totally at loss.
The best aspect of this book is that it is very clear to understand and practical to accomplish the techniques.
It has also given me a greater understanding of how inadequate the social skills of those around me are... And how superior!!
The people that I once thought confident became social losers.
And those I thought were incapable became my role models.

5 stars goes to this book for teaching me social skills I had never been taught.
You see, as smart as I am, I never finished GCSE's and my life was very anti social before marrying my husband who is a doctor. I tried to go to university, I got in based on my SAT's in America, but never felt very comfortable around people. Obviously, after marriage, I was caught in a whirlwind of doctor cliques... and being the wife of a doctor. I had no idea how to handle the situation.
The techniques in this book gave me the confidence that I too could become a social butterfly even around the most educated of people.
Thank you very much Leil

Who Else Wants to Change Their Life?, 20 Sep 2008
I'll be honest. I avoided this book for years. Then one day a good friend of mine (who is a Cambridge Rocket Scientist turned Internet Consulting Millionaire) said "hey did you ever read How to Win Friends and Influence People, that book's just amazing, it's hard to think of one that's better!" now put in the context that I've seen this guy pay $5000 for a book and MP3 course I naturally stopped and said "So you're telling me that this $20 or something book is worth more than the $5000 dollar courses? c'mon? no way?!?". He says: "Pretty much. Yes." As you can imagine I was then on tender hooks waiting for this to arrive I dove right in and....three months later (I do have a day job to hold down and kids to amuse ;-) ) Wow!...no...WOW! this is THE book. I've read a lot of self help books: this is the one that really changed my life. And not in weird unmeasurable ways, the advice in this book has been of practical help in almost all aspect of my life, personal, professional and social. Forget the myths around this book, buy it, read it and reap the rewards.

Essential Reading, 20 Sep 2008
For years, I'd tended to avoid this book, partly because of its cheesy title. However, I eventually decided to give it a try and I'm glad I did. Carnegie's great skill is in identifying how we can grow ourselves by interacting in a correct, responsible, ethical and empathetic way with other human beings.

Strange thing is, when you read much of his advice, you realise you knew it anyway, but that you'd somehow forgotten to act in that way. Simply try to act like some of his suggestions for a few days and I guarantee you will feel small but perceptible positive differences, and with the rise of the web and email, we are probably more in need of this advice than ever before. Give this book a try and I believe you won't be disappointed.

The Greatest Self-Help Book, 05 Sep 2008
This is the daddy of all self-help books. Many others are based on its teachings but few can match it for the clarity of its wonderful advice. It will build your self-confidence and help you to understand, relate to and influence other people. Highly recommended.

Mixed Feelings, 31 Jul 2008
This is a good book, no doubt about it. It was written a long time ago, but much of the advice contained within its pages is timeless and pertinent no matter what era we live in.

There is some advice in this book, though, that is a little dated. I feel just some of the tips for dealing with people would not work out the same way in today's world with current attitudes.

How To Win Friends And Influence People is definitely worth reading, but I think the reader really needs to analyze all the advice and adjust and tweak things a little to be useful in today's society.

Overall an excellent book.

How To Keep Your Man: And Keep Him For Good

Real Life Dramas - Volume One: 1

Darren G. Burton

One of the best books I read, 20 Jun 2008
I heard of this book few years ago and did mistake by not purchasing then.
This book is easy to understand and follow. Not preaching or teaching; just simple examples to get point across.

Excellant!, 23 Feb 2007
I was given this book, before starting my NC child care and early education, i then used if for both my level 2 and 3 SVQ modern aprrentice, and found this much easier to use than books supplied on the course's. I say this book is a must have for anyone studying or wishing to study childcare.

Fantastic help for NVQ3, 27 Jun 2006
This book is really really helpful, I am currently working my way through my NVQ3 and ordered this book in the hope that it would provide more information than what is given in the child care and development book when breaking down the ages and stages of child development, especially in the cognitive and language development sections, which are covered in less detail in the other child care book. The way it is set out is clear and concise and also provides activity ideas too.

excellant, 02 May 2006
This book is a must for anyone doing courses in childcare.
It is written in clear and is very easy to understand. I have found it invaluable whilst attending my cache diploma course. I have even used it to assess my own children. This book focuses on all child development upto the age of 16.

A Must have, 03 Apr 2006
I'm currently in my 2nd year of the CACHE Diploma and this book is an absolute necessity. It features sections on all ages upto 16 years and a section on child development theory.
It is ideal for observations and assignments and is a must have for any student/practitioner.

Hopefully, it will come in handy for when I start University in September.

Brilliant for Child care practitioners and all., 16 Jun 2004
This