Is it for real? Is The Game by Neill Strauss an assiduously detailed, highly entertaining exposé of a fascinating secret society -- the international community of pickup artists who have refined their talents for getting women into bed to the nth degree? Or is it an extremely funny hoax? Early drafts of the book had people wondering, and men in particular speculated if the book would deliver some valuable `how to' tips as an aid to entering a sexual wonderland. In fact, it doesn't really matter whether you take the basic premise seriously or not: Strauss' wonderfully diverting book delivers great entertainment whatever your point of view.

According to Strauss, the clandestine society of men he describes here take wagers in clubs and bars throughout the Western world over just who can chalk up the most Casanova-like quantities of pickups and seductions. But this isn't merely for the thrill of an army of sexual conquests -- all of this is coded and organised according to an almost military-style ritual, with an elaborate series of rules and regulations that the participants rigorously follow. Strauss went undercover in this glamorous world, and learned the secrets of these top-drawer seducers. But, for him, there was a useful corollary affect: Strauss found himself transformed from a nerdish, unconfident journalist into a silver-tongued Lothario, quite the equal of many of the ladykilling males he had been enjoying the company of. For him, the ultimate accolade was being noted The World's Number One Pickup Artist -- and then he made the mistake of setting his sights on a woman who could give every bit as good as she got.

The world of excess presented here is not one most of us move in, but (if the truth were told) it has its irresistible attractions. Strauss wheels in such celebrities as Tom Cruise and Courtney Love, and this unblushing peek into a secret world where sex and seduction are treated with cool scientific detachment is mesmerisingly readable. --Barry Forshaw

IN YOUR DREAMS, STYLE, 08 Nov 2008
Avoid this book like the plague,it pulls you in and is interesting for the 1st 100 pages or so then keeps re-hashing the the same thing over again,if you believe anything in this book you'll also believe in the tooth fairy,I persevered until the the end and it did'nt half make my head ache,what a load of cobblers, Nurse where's my aspirin.

Fun to read, but cop-out ending..., 20 Oct 2008
Recommended to me by friends telling me it had changed 'their entire perspective on dating', not to mention their 'success rate', the book follows a self-confessed dating loser who hooks up to a community of pick-up artists and then becomes a master himself.

Techniques in seduction are expanded upon and success follows, as our hero 'Style' gets to date women way out of his supposed league, and basically lives the life of Riley with a group of fellow serial daters in Hollywood until egos tear apart the lifestyle they had built together.

Very well written and a real eye-opener. Many will baulk at the morality of how far the PUAs are willing to go to hit on women, (it's not really lying, but the whole truth just isn't as interesting...) but the story also focuses on the importance of self improvement in the quest to become more attractive to the opposite sex.

The only disappointment come as the story reaches the final act, and our hero, after ridiculing the chumps hankering after the one special girl, then proceeds to fall in love himself, give up his lifestyle and, well, you can guess the rest. But don't let the denouement put you off, if you are interested in personal growth and development, you won't find a more inspirational and funny story to point the way.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Fantastic book..., 13 Sep 2008
I thought this book was great. Was expecting some sort of manual about seduction but it is written as a story. This gets you hooked in straight away and i found it hard to put down because you want to know what happens next. Book is very American though and some of the lines they use are pure cheese and you can imagine using on American girls but dont reccomend using them on English girls ( prob get punched in the face, i would if some wierdo started going on about cubes and v and c shaped smiles). The techniques do work and i would suggest getting books to build confidence as some of the techniques you will need alot of confidence but they are not really that hard to apply. Do yourself a favour and get this. It is a best selling book and averaging 5 stars, that says it all really

I haven't read it yet, but..., 23 Jul 2008
I have a few friends who have shared it around in order to have more confidence with the fairer sex. They are all good people, a world away from the 'scumbags' that some of the hypocritical ignorant negative reviews have spoken of (the same people who hated the generalisations of women in the book itself), and within a few weeks they'd ALL managed to find potential long-term girlfriends. Therefore, I might as well give it a go.

IN YOUR DREAMS, STYLE, 08 Nov 2008
Avoid this book like the plague,it pulls you in and is interesting for the 1st 100 pages or so then keeps re-hashing the the same thing over again,if you believe anything in this book you'll also believe in the tooth fairy,I persevered until the the end and it did'nt half make my head ache,what a load of cobblers, Nurse where's my aspirin.

Fun to read, but cop-out ending..., 20 Oct 2008
Recommended to me by friends telling me it had changed 'their entire perspective on dating', not to mention their 'success rate', the book follows a self-confessed dating loser who hooks up to a community of pick-up artists and then becomes a master himself.

Techniques in seduction are expanded upon and success follows, as our hero 'Style' gets to date women way out of his supposed league, and basically lives the life of Riley with a group of fellow serial daters in Hollywood until egos tear apart the lifestyle they had built together.

Very well written and a real eye-opener. Many will baulk at the morality of how far the PUAs are willing to go to hit on women, (it's not really lying, but the whole truth just isn't as interesting...) but the story also focuses on the importance of self improvement in the quest to become more attractive to the opposite sex.

The only disappointment come as the story reaches the final act, and our hero, after ridiculing the chumps hankering after the one special girl, then proceeds to fall in love himself, give up his lifestyle and, well, you can guess the rest. But don't let the denouement put you off, if you are interested in personal growth and development, you won't find a more inspirational and funny story to point the way.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Fantastic book..., 13 Sep 2008
I thought this book was great. Was expecting some sort of manual about seduction but it is written as a story. This gets you hooked in straight away and i found it hard to put down because you want to know what happens next. Book is very American though and some of the lines they use are pure cheese and you can imagine using on American girls but dont reccomend using them on English girls ( prob get punched in the face, i would if some wierdo started going on about cubes and v and c shaped smiles). The techniques do work and i would suggest getting books to build confidence as some of the techniques you will need alot of confidence but they are not really that hard to apply. Do yourself a favour and get this. It is a best selling book and averaging 5 stars, that says it all really

I haven't read it yet, but..., 23 Jul 2008
I have a few friends who have shared it around in order to have more confidence with the fairer sex. They are all good people, a world away from the 'scumbags' that some of the hypocritical ignorant negative reviews have spoken of (the same people who hated the generalisations of women in the book itself), and within a few weeks they'd ALL managed to find potential long-term girlfriends. Therefore, I might as well give it a go.

Honesty personified., 29 Oct 2008
If you like searing emotion and in your face honesty, then this is the book for you. After watching Mr Madeley on the telly, over the last few years, one is struck, immediately, at how his voice comes to mind as you read this book - a sure sign of its authenticity. Relationships between children and parents are often a never ending war of attrition - with a winner, in many cases, not emerging until one has left the family home. All aspects of family life are included in this heart rending autobiography - some good (his genuine love for Judy's children), some bad (his own upbringing). Whatever the subject, though, Mr Madeley brings it to life in his own trademark fashion. The result is an entertaining and thought provoking read. This is the best book on family life I have read since I finished One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele - another book that dealt with the barbed subject of family relations, albeit with race playing a part as well. In short, this is a book that should be purchased by anyone in the parenthood 'game'.

A remarkable true story, movingly told, 20 Oct 2008
I have been a fan of Richard's TV work for a long time, but i never knew a) what an amazing family history Richard has and b) how well he can write. The book opens with the story of Richard's grandfather when a child, waking up to find he has been abandoned by his whole family, who have moved to Canada to start a new life without him. It's a heartbreaking tale and like so many of the chapters in this book, it almost defies belief. The book is packed with wonderful anecdotes and stories from the past generations of Richard's family all told in that familiar, honest and really engaging way that you expect from Richard. I couldnt put it down and have already recommended to just about everyone i happen to meet!

IN YOUR DREAMS, STYLE, 08 Nov 2008
Avoid this book like the plague,it pulls you in and is interesting for the 1st 100 pages or so then keeps re-hashing the the same thing over again,if you believe anything in this book you'll also believe in the tooth fairy,I persevered until the the end and it did'nt half make my head ache,what a load of cobblers, Nurse where's my aspirin.

Fun to read, but cop-out ending..., 20 Oct 2008
Recommended to me by friends telling me it had changed 'their entire perspective on dating', not to mention their 'success rate', the book follows a self-confessed dating loser who hooks up to a community of pick-up artists and then becomes a master himself.

Techniques in seduction are expanded upon and success follows, as our hero 'Style' gets to date women way out of his supposed league, and basically lives the life of Riley with a group of fellow serial daters in Hollywood until egos tear apart the lifestyle they had built together.

Very well written and a real eye-opener. Many will baulk at the morality of how far the PUAs are willing to go to hit on women, (it's not really lying, but the whole truth just isn't as interesting...) but the story also focuses on the importance of self improvement in the quest to become more attractive to the opposite sex.

The only disappointment come as the story reaches the final act, and our hero, after ridiculing the chumps hankering after the one special girl, then proceeds to fall in love himself, give up his lifestyle and, well, you can guess the rest. But don't let the denouement put you off, if you are interested in personal growth and development, you won't find a more inspirational and funny story to point the way.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Fantastic book..., 13 Sep 2008
I thought this book was great. Was expecting some sort of manual about seduction but it is written as a story. This gets you hooked in straight away and i found it hard to put down because you want to know what happens next. Book is very American though and some of the lines they use are pure cheese and you can imagine using on American girls but dont reccomend using them on English girls ( prob get punched in the face, i would if some wierdo started going on about cubes and v and c shaped smiles). The techniques do work and i would suggest getting books to build confidence as some of the techniques you will need alot of confidence but they are not really that hard to apply. Do yourself a favour and get this. It is a best selling book and averaging 5 stars, that says it all really

I haven't read it yet, but..., 23 Jul 2008
I have a few friends who have shared it around in order to have more confidence with the fairer sex. They are all good people, a world away from the 'scumbags' that some of the hypocritical ignorant negative reviews have spoken of (the same people who hated the generalisations of women in the book itself), and within a few weeks they'd ALL managed to find potential long-term girlfriends. Therefore, I might as well give it a go.

Honesty personified., 29 Oct 2008
If you like searing emotion and in your face honesty, then this is the book for you. After watching Mr Madeley on the telly, over the last few years, one is struck, immediately, at how his voice comes to mind as you read this book - a sure sign of its authenticity. Relationships between children and parents are often a never ending war of attrition - with a winner, in many cases, not emerging until one has left the family home. All aspects of family life are included in this heart rending autobiography - some good (his genuine love for Judy's children), some bad (his own upbringing). Whatever the subject, though, Mr Madeley brings it to life in his own trademark fashion. The result is an entertaining and thought provoking read. This is the best book on family life I have read since I finished One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele - another book that dealt with the barbed subject of family relations, albeit with race playing a part as well. In short, this is a book that should be purchased by anyone in the parenthood 'game'.

A remarkable true story, movingly told, 20 Oct 2008
I have been a fan of Richard's TV work for a long time, but i never knew a) what an amazing family history Richard has and b) how well he can write. The book opens with the story of Richard's grandfather when a child, waking up to find he has been abandoned by his whole family, who have moved to Canada to start a new life without him. It's a heartbreaking tale and like so many of the chapters in this book, it almost defies belief. The book is packed with wonderful anecdotes and stories from the past generations of Richard's family all told in that familiar, honest and really engaging way that you expect from Richard. I couldnt put it down and have already recommended to just about everyone i happen to meet!

Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese , 11 Oct 2008
'Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese' is a stunning look at the history of both Burlesque and Fetish from the point of view of one of the most famous models and Burlesque dancers of today, Dita Von Teese. It has stunning imagery and is well presented, without being lascivious or in poor taste. This book is class all the way. The various sections focusing on the history of both arts are fascinating, with information you would never have considered and you can tell Dita is both knowledgeable and passionate about her art. If you're a fan of Dita or just interested in Burlesque or Fetish then this is an excellent place to go, and though slightly unorthodox, this would make a wonderful coffee table book.

Stunning and Beautiful, 18 Jan 2008
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book when it came out and it's only now that I am writing my own review.

I love every page of this book and recently I went to her only british book signing at Waterstones and I could not decide which page I wanted her to sign! (She is even more beautiful and amazing in person!!!) Buy it and then treasure this book forever, if you love Dita, Burlesque, old movie star glamour, lingerie....anything girly!

Stunning photography if a little sparse, 12 Jan 2008
I adore Dita, I'd love to kidnap her and keep her under my bed but alas it is not to be.
I loved that this book came in two parts, the front has dita in softer, artistic glamour poses, and the back more fetish and burlesque glamour. The book is a little basic, with bullet points which does give off a little "dummies guide" kind of feel...but over all its worth the money.


lovely, 01 Nov 2007
A great book, beautiful photographs and a real inspiration. Well worth having. Dita is a real officianado of everything glamourous and i really enjoy looking through this book whenever i need a boost of self belief and confidence to really express myself. vive le nouveux burlesque revolution!

Overpriced , Overrated and the same goes for the book as well, 29 Sep 2007
Overpriced calendar. I love burlesque , which can be witty , alluring , sexy and creative. This is a bunch of pictures with hollow commentary. If you want pictures to gawk at well there you go this book is perfect for you. If you're getting this book because you want to know more about Dita von Teese well it's pretty vacuous so are Dita's live perfomances.

IN YOUR DREAMS, STYLE, 08 Nov 2008
Avoid this book like the plague,it pulls you in and is interesting for the 1st 100 pages or so then keeps re-hashing the the same thing over again,if you believe anything in this book you'll also believe in the tooth fairy,I persevered until the the end and it did'nt half make my head ache,what a load of cobblers, Nurse where's my aspirin.

Fun to read, but cop-out ending..., 20 Oct 2008
Recommended to me by friends telling me it had changed 'their entire perspective on dating', not to mention their 'success rate', the book follows a self-confessed dating loser who hooks up to a community of pick-up artists and then becomes a master himself.

Techniques in seduction are expanded upon and success follows, as our hero 'Style' gets to date women way out of his supposed league, and basically lives the life of Riley with a group of fellow serial daters in Hollywood until egos tear apart the lifestyle they had built together.

Very well written and a real eye-opener. Many will baulk at the morality of how far the PUAs are willing to go to hit on women, (it's not really lying, but the whole truth just isn't as interesting...) but the story also focuses on the importance of self improvement in the quest to become more attractive to the opposite sex.

The only disappointment come as the story reaches the final act, and our hero, after ridiculing the chumps hankering after the one special girl, then proceeds to fall in love himself, give up his lifestyle and, well, you can guess the rest. But don't let the denouement put you off, if you are interested in personal growth and development, you won't find a more inspirational and funny story to point the way.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Fantastic book..., 13 Sep 2008
I thought this book was great. Was expecting some sort of manual about seduction but it is written as a story. This gets you hooked in straight away and i found it hard to put down because you want to know what happens next. Book is very American though and some of the lines they use are pure cheese and you can imagine using on American girls but dont reccomend using them on English girls ( prob get punched in the face, i would if some wierdo started going on about cubes and v and c shaped smiles). The techniques do work and i would suggest getting books to build confidence as some of the techniques you will need alot of confidence but they are not really that hard to apply. Do yourself a favour and get this. It is a best selling book and averaging 5 stars, that says it all really

I haven't read it yet, but..., 23 Jul 2008
I have a few friends who have shared it around in order to have more confidence with the fairer sex. They are all good people, a world away from the 'scumbags' that some of the hypocritical ignorant negative reviews have spoken of (the same people who hated the generalisations of women in the book itself), and within a few weeks they'd ALL managed to find potential long-term girlfriends. Therefore, I might as well give it a go.

Honesty personified., 29 Oct 2008
If you like searing emotion and in your face honesty, then this is the book for you. After watching Mr Madeley on the telly, over the last few years, one is struck, immediately, at how his voice comes to mind as you read this book - a sure sign of its authenticity. Relationships between children and parents are often a never ending war of attrition - with a winner, in many cases, not emerging until one has left the family home. All aspects of family life are included in this heart rending autobiography - some good (his genuine love for Judy's children), some bad (his own upbringing). Whatever the subject, though, Mr Madeley brings it to life in his own trademark fashion. The result is an entertaining and thought provoking read. This is the best book on family life I have read since I finished One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele - another book that dealt with the barbed subject of family relations, albeit with race playing a part as well. In short, this is a book that should be purchased by anyone in the parenthood 'game'.

A remarkable true story, movingly told, 20 Oct 2008
I have been a fan of Richard's TV work for a long time, but i never knew a) what an amazing family history Richard has and b) how well he can write. The book opens with the story of Richard's grandfather when a child, waking up to find he has been abandoned by his whole family, who have moved to Canada to start a new life without him. It's a heartbreaking tale and like so many of the chapters in this book, it almost defies belief. The book is packed with wonderful anecdotes and stories from the past generations of Richard's family all told in that familiar, honest and really engaging way that you expect from Richard. I couldnt put it down and have already recommended to just about everyone i happen to meet!

Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese , 11 Oct 2008
'Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese' is a stunning look at the history of both Burlesque and Fetish from the point of view of one of the most famous models and Burlesque dancers of today, Dita Von Teese. It has stunning imagery and is well presented, without being lascivious or in poor taste. This book is class all the way. The various sections focusing on the history of both arts are fascinating, with information you would never have considered and you can tell Dita is both knowledgeable and passionate about her art. If you're a fan of Dita or just interested in Burlesque or Fetish then this is an excellent place to go, and though slightly unorthodox, this would make a wonderful coffee table book.

Stunning and Beautiful, 18 Jan 2008
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book when it came out and it's only now that I am writing my own review.

I love every page of this book and recently I went to her only british book signing at Waterstones and I could not decide which page I wanted her to sign! (She is even more beautiful and amazing in person!!!) Buy it and then treasure this book forever, if you love Dita, Burlesque, old movie star glamour, lingerie....anything girly!

Stunning photography if a little sparse, 12 Jan 2008
I adore Dita, I'd love to kidnap her and keep her under my bed but alas it is not to be.
I loved that this book came in two parts, the front has dita in softer, artistic glamour poses, and the back more fetish and burlesque glamour. The book is a little basic, with bullet points which does give off a little "dummies guide" kind of feel...but over all its worth the money.


lovely, 01 Nov 2007
A great book, beautiful photographs and a real inspiration. Well worth having. Dita is a real officianado of everything glamourous and i really enjoy looking through this book whenever i need a boost of self belief and confidence to really express myself. vive le nouveux burlesque revolution!

Overpriced , Overrated and the same goes for the book as well, 29 Sep 2007
Overpriced calendar. I love burlesque , which can be witty , alluring , sexy and creative. This is a bunch of pictures with hollow commentary. If you want pictures to gawk at well there you go this book is perfect for you. If you're getting this book because you want to know more about Dita von Teese well it's pretty vacuous so are Dita's live perfomances.

Ms Calman does it again!, 24 Sep 2008
Ms Calman hits the jackpot once more with How 'not' to murder your mother! Having nodded in agreement all the way through Confessions of a Bad Mother and Failed Grown up I wasn't sure if, given my own wonderful relationship with my mother, How 'not' to Murder Your Mother would ring true. My goodness me! I laughed, I cried and I did nod along! A very honest and heartfelt book that anyone who has ever had a mother should read!

IN YOUR DREAMS, STYLE, 08 Nov 2008
Avoid this book like the plague,it pulls you in and is interesting for the 1st 100 pages or so then keeps re-hashing the the same thing over again,if you believe anything in this book you'll also believe in the tooth fairy,I persevered until the the end and it did'nt half make my head ache,what a load of cobblers, Nurse where's my aspirin.

Fun to read, but cop-out ending..., 20 Oct 2008
Recommended to me by friends telling me it had changed 'their entire perspective on dating', not to mention their 'success rate', the book follows a self-confessed dating loser who hooks up to a community of pick-up artists and then becomes a master himself.

Techniques in seduction are expanded upon and success follows, as our hero 'Style' gets to date women way out of his supposed league, and basically lives the life of Riley with a group of fellow serial daters in Hollywood until egos tear apart the lifestyle they had built together.

Very well written and a real eye-opener. Many will baulk at the morality of how far the PUAs are willing to go to hit on women, (it's not really lying, but the whole truth just isn't as interesting...) but the story also focuses on the importance of self improvement in the quest to become more attractive to the opposite sex.

The only disappointment come as the story reaches the final act, and our hero, after ridiculing the chumps hankering after the one special girl, then proceeds to fall in love himself, give up his lifestyle and, well, you can guess the rest. But don't let the denouement put you off, if you are interested in personal growth and development, you won't find a more inspirational and funny story to point the way.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Fantastic book..., 13 Sep 2008
I thought this book was great. Was expecting some sort of manual about seduction but it is written as a story. This gets you hooked in straight away and i found it hard to put down because you want to know what happens next. Book is very American though and some of the lines they use are pure cheese and you can imagine using on American girls but dont reccomend using them on English girls ( prob get punched in the face, i would if some wierdo started going on about cubes and v and c shaped smiles). The techniques do work and i would suggest getting books to build confidence as some of the techniques you will need alot of confidence but they are not really that hard to apply. Do yourself a favour and get this. It is a best selling book and averaging 5 stars, that says it all really

I haven't read it yet, but..., 23 Jul 2008
I have a few friends who have shared it around in order to have more confidence with the fairer sex. They are all good people, a world away from the 'scumbags' that some of the hypocritical ignorant negative reviews have spoken of (the same people who hated the generalisations of women in the book itself), and within a few weeks they'd ALL managed to find potential long-term girlfriends. Therefore, I might as well give it a go.

Honesty personified., 29 Oct 2008
If you like searing emotion and in your face honesty, then this is the book for you. After watching Mr Madeley on the telly, over the last few years, one is struck, immediately, at how his voice comes to mind as you read this book - a sure sign of its authenticity. Relationships between children and parents are often a never ending war of attrition - with a winner, in many cases, not emerging until one has left the family home. All aspects of family life are included in this heart rending autobiography - some good (his genuine love for Judy's children), some bad (his own upbringing). Whatever the subject, though, Mr Madeley brings it to life in his own trademark fashion. The result is an entertaining and thought provoking read. This is the best book on family life I have read since I finished One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele - another book that dealt with the barbed subject of family relations, albeit with race playing a part as well. In short, this is a book that should be purchased by anyone in the parenthood 'game'.

A remarkable true story, movingly told, 20 Oct 2008
I have been a fan of Richard's TV work for a long time, but i never knew a) what an amazing family history Richard has and b) how well he can write. The book opens with the story of Richard's grandfather when a child, waking up to find he has been abandoned by his whole family, who have moved to Canada to start a new life without him. It's a heartbreaking tale and like so many of the chapters in this book, it almost defies belief. The book is packed with wonderful anecdotes and stories from the past generations of Richard's family all told in that familiar, honest and really engaging way that you expect from Richard. I couldnt put it down and have already recommended to just about everyone i happen to meet!

Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese , 11 Oct 2008
'Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese' is a stunning look at the history of both Burlesque and Fetish from the point of view of one of the most famous models and Burlesque dancers of today, Dita Von Teese. It has stunning imagery and is well presented, without being lascivious or in poor taste. This book is class all the way. The various sections focusing on the history of both arts are fascinating, with information you would never have considered and you can tell Dita is both knowledgeable and passionate about her art. If you're a fan of Dita or just interested in Burlesque or Fetish then this is an excellent place to go, and though slightly unorthodox, this would make a wonderful coffee table book.

Stunning and Beautiful, 18 Jan 2008
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book when it came out and it's only now that I am writing my own review.

I love every page of this book and recently I went to her only british book signing at Waterstones and I could not decide which page I wanted her to sign! (She is even more beautiful and amazing in person!!!) Buy it and then treasure this book forever, if you love Dita, Burlesque, old movie star glamour, lingerie....anything girly!

Stunning photography if a little sparse, 12 Jan 2008
I adore Dita, I'd love to kidnap her and keep her under my bed but alas it is not to be.
I loved that this book came in two parts, the front has dita in softer, artistic glamour poses, and the back more fetish and burlesque glamour. The book is a little basic, with bullet points which does give off a little "dummies guide" kind of feel...but over all its worth the money.


lovely, 01 Nov 2007
A great book, beautiful photographs and a real inspiration. Well worth having. Dita is a real officianado of everything glamourous and i really enjoy looking through this book whenever i need a boost of self belief and confidence to really express myself. vive le nouveux burlesque revolution!

Overpriced , Overrated and the same goes for the book as well, 29 Sep 2007
Overpriced calendar. I love burlesque , which can be witty , alluring , sexy and creative. This is a bunch of pictures with hollow commentary. If you want pictures to gawk at well there you go this book is perfect for you. If you're getting this book because you want to know more about Dita von Teese well it's pretty vacuous so are Dita's live perfomances.

Ms Calman does it again!, 24 Sep 2008
Ms Calman hits the jackpot once more with How 'not' to murder your mother! Having nodded in agreement all the way through Confessions of a Bad Mother and Failed Grown up I wasn't sure if, given my own wonderful relationship with my mother, How 'not' to Murder Your Mother would ring true. My goodness me! I laughed, I cried and I did nod along! A very honest and heartfelt book that anyone who has ever had a mother should read!

A British Charitable Institution?, 11 Aug 2008
Sue Martin's harrowing account of the physical and mental abuse and tortue at the hands of so-called carers has changed my perception of the charity under which she was placed. It is certainly one I'll never give to again. Not until they explain such treatment and what they intend to do to atone for their unspeakable inhuman behaviour towards children.

Inspirational, 29 Apr 2008
Once I started reading Sue's book I couldn't put it down. A very moving, at times very distressing account of what life could be like in Children's Homes in the 40's and 50's What also comes across is Sue's courage, strength of character and determination to beat the system. I look forward to the sequel.

WHAT A GIRL !!, 27 Mar 2008
This is absolutely worth reading ! Sue goes through terrible torment and abuse, but what a personality she has ! She works out in her own child`s mind how she`s going to deal with everybody - and carries it through - and it works ! One important fact you learn from this book - it`s not always men that abuse children.....

Brilliant book...., 15 Feb 2008
I read this book after it being recommended to me by my daughter and I felt compelled to write this review to let everyone know just what a brilliant book it is! From the moment of starting it, I just couldn't put it down. I'm not a fast reader so it took me a few days to read it despite this but I loved every minute of it. Her story is both tragic and heart-wrenching and enables one to be able to put their own troubles and hardships in perspective. My heart goes out to the author and all those children who suffered through similar experiences. So if you haven't read this book yet, please do so. I just hope that a sequel is forthcoming soon because I can't wait to find out what happens next...

A moving and inspirational book.., 14 Jan 2008
From the moment I started this book I couldn't put it down! I cried in many places but was also inspired by Sue's courage and fortitude. She is an inspiration to us all! This is without a doubt one of the best books of it's kind I have ever read and I have read a great many of them!
I would also like to point out that this review is not at all influenced or biased by the fact that I have known Sue and her family personally for many years. She is a wonderful person, full of warmth and generosity and a terrific friend, mother and grandmother. I am proud, not only to know her but also for her amazing courage in sharing her story with the world. Well done Sue!

IN YOUR DREAMS, STYLE, 08 Nov 2008
Avoid this book like the plague,it pulls you in and is interesting for the 1st 100 pages or so then keeps re-hashing the the same thing over again,if you believe anything in this book you'll also believe in the tooth fairy,I persevered until the the end and it did'nt half make my head ache,what a load of cobblers, Nurse where's my aspirin.

Fun to read, but cop-out ending..., 20 Oct 2008
Recommended to me by friends telling me it had changed 'their entire perspective on dating', not to mention their 'success rate', the book follows a self-confessed dating loser who hooks up to a community of pick-up artists and then becomes a master himself.

Techniques in seduction are expanded upon and success follows, as our hero 'Style' gets to date women way out of his supposed league, and basically lives the life of Riley with a group of fellow serial daters in Hollywood until egos tear apart the lifestyle they had built together.

Very well written and a real eye-opener. Many will baulk at the morality of how far the PUAs are willing to go to hit on women, (it's not really lying, but the whole truth just isn't as interesting...) but the story also focuses on the importance of self improvement in the quest to become more attractive to the opposite sex.

The only disappointment come as the story reaches the final act, and our hero, after ridiculing the chumps hankering after the one special girl, then proceeds to fall in love himself, give up his lifestyle and, well, you can guess the rest. But don't let the denouement put you off, if you are interested in personal growth and development, you won't find a more inspirational and funny story to point the way.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Fantastic book..., 13 Sep 2008
I thought this book was great. Was expecting some sort of manual about seduction but it is written as a story. This gets you hooked in straight away and i found it hard to put down because you want to know what happens next. Book is very American though and some of the lines they use are pure cheese and you can imagine using on American girls but dont reccomend using them on English girls ( prob get punched in the face, i would if some wierdo started going on about cubes and v and c shaped smiles). The techniques do work and i would suggest getting books to build confidence as some of the techniques you will need alot of confidence but they are not really that hard to apply. Do yourself a favour and get this. It is a best selling book and averaging 5 stars, that says it all really

I haven't read it yet, but..., 23 Jul 2008
I have a few friends who have shared it around in order to have more confidence with the fairer sex. They are all good people, a world away from the 'scumbags' that some of the hypocritical ignorant negative reviews have spoken of (the same people who hated the generalisations of women in the book itself), and within a few weeks they'd ALL managed to find potential long-term girlfriends. Therefore, I might as well give it a go.

Honesty personified., 29 Oct 2008
If you like searing emotion and in your face honesty, then this is the book for you. After watching Mr Madeley on the telly, over the last few years, one is struck, immediately, at how his voice comes to mind as you read this book - a sure sign of its authenticity. Relationships between children and parents are often a never ending war of attrition - with a winner, in many cases, not emerging until one has left the family home. All aspects of family life are included in this heart rending autobiography - some good (his genuine love for Judy's children), some bad (his own upbringing). Whatever the subject, though, Mr Madeley brings it to life in his own trademark fashion. The result is an entertaining and thought provoking read. This is the best book on family life I have read since I finished One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele - another book that dealt with the barbed subject of family relations, albeit with race playing a part as well. In short, this is a book that should be purchased by anyone in the parenthood 'game'.

A remarkable true story, movingly told, 20 Oct 2008
I have been a fan of Richard's TV work for a long time, but i never knew a) what an amazing family history Richard has and b) how well he can write. The book opens with the story of Richard's grandfather when a child, waking up to find he has been abandoned by his whole family, who have moved to Canada to start a new life without him. It's a heartbreaking tale and like so many of the chapters in this book, it almost defies belief. The book is packed with wonderful anecdotes and stories from the past generations of Richard's family all told in that familiar, honest and really engaging way that you expect from Richard. I couldnt put it down and have already recommended to just about everyone i happen to meet!

Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese , 11 Oct 2008
'Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese' is a stunning look at the history of both Burlesque and Fetish from the point of view of one of the most famous models and Burlesque dancers of today, Dita Von Teese. It has stunning imagery and is well presented, without being lascivious or in poor taste. This book is class all the way. The various sections focusing on the history of both arts are fascinating, with information you would never have considered and you can tell Dita is both knowledgeable and passionate about her art. If you're a fan of Dita or just interested in Burlesque or Fetish then this is an excellent place to go, and though slightly unorthodox, this would make a wonderful coffee table book.

Stunning and Beautiful, 18 Jan 2008
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book when it came out and it's only now that I am writing my own review.

I love every page of this book and recently I went to her only british book signing at Waterstones and I could not decide which page I wanted her to sign! (She is even more beautiful and amazing in person!!!) Buy it and then treasure this book forever, if you love Dita, Burlesque, old movie star glamour, lingerie....anything girly!

Stunning photography if a little sparse, 12 Jan 2008
I adore Dita, I'd love to kidnap her and keep her under my bed but alas it is not to be.
I loved that this book came in two parts, the front has dita in softer, artistic glamour poses, and the back more fetish and burlesque glamour. The book is a little basic, with bullet points which does give off a little "dummies guide" kind of feel...but over all its worth the money.


lovely, 01 Nov 2007
A great book, beautiful photographs and a real inspiration. Well worth having. Dita is a real officianado of everything glamourous and i really enjoy looking through this book whenever i need a boost of self belief and confidence to really express myself. vive le nouveux burlesque revolution!

Overpriced , Overrated and the same goes for the book as well, 29 Sep 2007
Overpriced calendar. I love burlesque , which can be witty , alluring , sexy and creative. This is a bunch of pictures with hollow commentary. If you want pictures to gawk at well there you go this book is perfect for you. If you're getting this book because you want to know more about Dita von Teese well it's pretty vacuous so are Dita's live perfomances.

Ms Calman does it again!, 24 Sep 2008
Ms Calman hits the jackpot once more with How 'not' to murder your mother! Having nodded in agreement all the way through Confessions of a Bad Mother and Failed Grown up I wasn't sure if, given my own wonderful relationship with my mother, How 'not' to Murder Your Mother would ring true. My goodness me! I laughed, I cried and I did nod along! A very honest and heartfelt book that anyone who has ever had a mother should read!

A British Charitable Institution?, 11 Aug 2008
Sue Martin's harrowing account of the physical and mental abuse and tortue at the hands of so-called carers has changed my perception of the charity under which she was placed. It is certainly one I'll never give to again. Not until they explain such treatment and what they intend to do to atone for their unspeakable inhuman behaviour towards children.

Inspirational, 29 Apr 2008
Once I started reading Sue's book I couldn't put it down. A very moving, at times very distressing account of what life could be like in Children's Homes in the 40's and 50's What also comes across is Sue's courage, strength of character and determination to beat the system. I look forward to the sequel.

WHAT A GIRL !!, 27 Mar 2008
This is absolutely worth reading ! Sue goes through terrible torment and abuse, but what a personality she has ! She works out in her own child`s mind how she`s going to deal with everybody - and carries it through - and it works ! One important fact you learn from this book - it`s not always men that abuse children.....

Brilliant book...., 15 Feb 2008
I read this book after it being recommended to me by my daughter and I felt compelled to write this review to let everyone know just what a brilliant book it is! From the moment of starting it, I just couldn't put it down. I'm not a fast reader so it took me a few days to read it despite this but I loved every minute of it. Her story is both tragic and heart-wrenching and enables one to be able to put their own troubles and hardships in perspective. My heart goes out to the author and all those children who suffered through similar experiences. So if you haven't read this book yet, please do so. I just hope that a sequel is forthcoming soon because I can't wait to find out what happens next...

A moving and inspirational book.., 14 Jan 2008
From the moment I started this book I couldn't put it down! I cried in many places but was also inspired by Sue's courage and fortitude. She is an inspiration to us all! This is without a doubt one of the best books of it's kind I have ever read and I have read a great many of them!
I would also like to point out that this review is not at all influenced or biased by the fact that I have known Sue and her family personally for many years. She is a wonderful person, full of warmth and generosity and a terrific friend, mother and grandmother. I am proud, not only to know her but also for her amazing courage in sharing her story with the world. Well done Sue!

Thorough and thoroughly engaging!, 01 Jan 2008
Antonia Frazer makes history alive and completely interesting. This book separates fact from fiction regarding the Wives of King Henry VIII. There are many pieces of information regarding Henry and his wives that historians disagree upon. Frazer discusses WHY she came to the conclusions she did and discusses the alternative viewpoints of other historians. This detail in particular really impressed me. (Of course, it was a little disappointing, however, to discover that Katherine Howard didn't actually cry out her love for Thomas Culpepper from the scaffold, though!)

This book provides more than a brief overview to all six of these fascinating women. It really discusses their lives--as related to Henry and to the times-- in much detail, covering many important points while clarifying misconceptions and legend from fact.

Great reading about six fascinating women!, 23 Aug 2007
Antonia Fraser's book focuses on the six queens as individuals, one chapter about each queen. They are very different personalities and no doubt there was quite a bit of jalousy between them. Anne Boleyn (2 - The Most Happy?) may seem the most colourful and famous of the six, but this book shows that both Catherine of Aragon (1, Arthur's Dearest Spouse), Jane Seymor (3 - Entirely beloved), Anna of Cleves (4 - An Unendurable bargain), Katherine Howard (5 - Old Man's Jewel) and Catherine Parr (6 - Obedient to Husbands) were all every bit as interesting.

I felt very sympathetic to these ladies. Maybe in particular, Anna of Cleves, whose marriage to the King was never consummated and finally nullified. After 6 months as Queen, the docile lady Anna submit to the King's will and spent over 17 years as a "good Sister", never to return to her native Germany. Her burial place is, however, magnificient, her fine tomb to be found in Westminster Abbey.

The book also explains a lot about the King's relationship with his queens as a young man, when he was a strapping attractive youth, not only the old, sick and fat man who is usually pictured/painted in history books. It would not have been difficult for a young woman to fall in love with, as the book says, "this fine figure of a man, with his tall blond good looks".

The reason for the many marriages and their unfortunate/cruel outcome, was Henry VIII's desperate attempt to get at least one male heir to the throne. His marriages failed in ensuring this succession, and therein lay the unique fate of his six queens and the religious and political developments in England during Henry's reign.

There was, of course, Edward, Prince of Wales, his son by Jane Seymour. But Edward was not strong and died at an early age. In the end, his daughter by Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth, became Queen Elizabeth I of England, but in quite a different connection and not as a succession to her father.

I enjoyed Antonia Fraser's book immensely and learned numerous new facts about both the King himself and his six interesting queens.

This is a book which is not a tedious history lesson, marred by too many dates and facts. Apart from an interest in six unique women and a very special time in English history, one does not need any particular qualifications to read and enjoy this book. And at the same time, learn!



sympathetic personal biography, 09 Jul 2007
If, like me, most historical narratives are a bit hard going (all those dates and wars!) then this is a perfect antidote: Fraser focuses on the personal lives of Henry and his wives, relegating the politics to the background.

She manages to keep all the wives distinct and give them their own persoanlity which is excellent, as well as charting Henry's development from 'angelic' young king, to bloated monster (her words, not mine).

My only slight quibble was the pacing, since we lost some sense of time between Catherine of Aragorn's long marriage and the shorter interludes that followed, but that really was minor. The end after the death of Henry felt unnecessary too, but that's personal taste.

Where Fraser really excels is in taking the sterotypes and school-kid images of the wives and revealing the 'truth' (or one truth) behind them. She keeps a balance too, never siding with one wife over another.

Altogether an excellent read with a fine sense of period.

An excellent account of the women in Henry's life, 07 Aug 2006
Antonia Fraser writes a very sympathetic account of the 6 wives of Henry VIII. She lets none of these wives to stand in Henry's shadow - instead, each one has certain characteristics of her own, whether uncommon intelligence, courage, unwavering influence, beauty, or skill of manipulation. Luckily for us, Ms Fraser abandons the view of Henry as despicable tyrant in favour of an intelligent ruler who often consulted his wives on political matters, discussed various aspects of the arts with them, and so often proved to be a much more gentle Henry than history tends to show. This is a lovely, well-researched narrative that includes excerpts from letters and diaries; each section is divided into 3-5 chapters that focus on an individual wife and her relationship with the king.

Good to be the Queen?, 28 Apr 2006
Antonia Fraser's 'The Wives of Henry VIII' is a wonderful account of the lives of the six women who married the controversial Tudor king. Fraser has written extensively on many subjects, but is particularly interested in British royal history. Her writing is clear and accessible, and almost invariably interesting.

Fraser says 'the six women have become defined in a popular sense not so much by their lives as by the way these lives ended.' Largely, they became identified (as most historical figures do) as stereotypes. Fraser's stated intent in the book is to examine the real women behind the stereotypes, to find the human strengths and frailties behind the historic labels.

Divorced, beheaded, died...divorced, beheaded, survived

-Catherine of Aragon-
Divorced
Stereotype: Betrayed Wife, bigoted Catholic
Reality: a learned woman, politically astute, perhaps not entirely blameless in the break-up (but then, what can one expect? Divorce was presumably out of the question given religious and political considerations, so might she have felt safe to be more forward than anyone should be with the formidible Henry?)

-Anne Boleyn-
Beheaded
Stereotype: Temptress, Protestant activist
Reality: she was more Protestant because the Catholic church wouldn't recognise or grant the divorce. She played a demur and devout character in court, but then, could she have publicly appeared as anything else, given the unprecedented events going on about her and because of her? She didn't have a chance to build up a power base, and suffered greatly for it. Indignatio principis mors est. Little known fact: Anne was actually divorced from Henry on the eve of her execution.

-Jane Seymour-
Died
Stereotype: the Good Woman, Protestant yet Catholic
Reality: 'Jane Seymour was exactly the kind of female praised by the contemporary handbooks to correct conduct; just as Anne Boleyn had been the sort they warned against. There was certainly no threatening sexuality about her.' Henry would look back on Jane as the wife with whom he had been uniquely happy. She died as a result of the stress of childbirth (a not uncommon fate of women of any class), Henry's only legitimate male heir.

-Anna of Cleves-
Divorced
Stereotype: Ugly Sister, Lutheran and Catholic
Reality: an interesting and difficult marriage to put together. 'Paradoxically, the King in his last forties, gross, no likely object of desire, was far more difficult to please than that handsome boy of 1509, ready to fall in love where policy directed him, whom any girl might easily love in return.' By this time, of course, Henry had a reputation of being at the least an unlucky husband. Solemn, looking older than her age, Anna was almost instantly disliked. Perhaps this saved her from a worse fate, if Henry had come to know her and then fall out of love with her.

-Katherine Howard-
Beheaded
Stereotype: the Bad Girl
Reality: Katherine was expected to produce the 'spare' to the heir produced by Jane. 'Katherine was, on her own admission, one who knew how to "meddle with a man" without conceiving a child.' Her affair with Culpeper not discreet enough, Katherine suffered the fury of Henry, who blamed his Council for forcing on him 'a succession of such ill-conditioned wives.'

-Catherine Parr-
Survived
Stereotype: the Mother Figure
Reality: not well educated but not unintelligent, a caring but politically astute person. 'As for the King himself, it was remarked that as Bishop Gardiner pronounced the now familiar words of the marriage service, an expression of real happiness crossed that bloated face.' She had taken as her motto 'To be useful in all I do.'

Fraser goes into detail about the lives, and the aftermath, what became of these women, even to the extent of recounting the period neglect and restorations of their graves. Speaking of Catherine of Aragon, she writes: 'It is rare to find the Queen's grave without fresh flowers placed upon it. Nothing is known about those who over the years have performed this touching act of respect. One can however safely assume that, whatever their own religious view, they agree with this estimate of the character of Catherine of Aragon: loyal, pious, courageous and compassionate.'

IN YOUR DREAMS, STYLE, 08 Nov 2008
Avoid this book like the plague,it pulls you in and is interesting for the 1st 100 pages or so then keeps re-hashing the the same thing over again,if you believe anything in this book you'll also believe in the tooth fairy,I persevered until the the end and it did'nt half make my head ache,what a load of cobblers, Nurse where's my aspirin.

Fun to read, but cop-out ending..., 20 Oct 2008
Recommended to me by friends telling me it had changed 'their entire perspective on dating', not to mention their 'success rate', the book follows a self-confessed dating loser who hooks up to a community of pick-up artists and then becomes a master himself.

Techniques in seduction are expanded upon and success follows, as our hero 'Style' gets to date women way out of his supposed league, and basically lives the life of Riley with a group of fellow serial daters in Hollywood until egos tear apart the lifestyle they had built together.

Very well written and a real eye-opener. Many will baulk at the morality of how far the PUAs are willing to go to hit on women, (it's not really lying, but the whole truth just isn't as interesting...) but the story also focuses on the importance of self improvement in the quest to become more attractive to the opposite sex.

The only disappointment come as the story reaches the final act, and our hero, after ridiculing the chumps hankering after the one special girl, then proceeds to fall in love himself, give up his lifestyle and, well, you can guess the rest. But don't let the denouement put you off, if you are interested in personal growth and development, you won't find a more inspirational and funny story to point the way.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Fantastic book..., 13 Sep 2008
I thought this book was great. Was expecting some sort of manual about seduction but it is written as a story. This gets you hooked in straight away and i found it hard to put down because you want to know what happens next. Book is very American though and some of the lines they use are pure cheese and you can imagine using on American girls but dont reccomend using them on English girls ( prob get punched in the face, i would if some wierdo started going on about cubes and v and c shaped smiles). The techniques do work and i would suggest getting books to build confidence as some of the techniques you will need alot of confidence but they are not really that hard to apply. Do yourself a favour and get this. It is a best selling book and averaging 5 stars, that says it all really

I haven't read it yet, but..., 23 Jul 2008
I have a few friends who have shared it around in order to have more confidence with the fairer sex. They are all good people, a world away from the 'scumbags' that some of the hypocritical ignorant negative reviews have spoken of (the same people who hated the generalisations of women in the book itself), and within a few weeks they'd ALL managed to find potential long-term girlfriends. Therefore, I might as well give it a go.

Honesty personified., 29 Oct 2008
If you like searing emotion and in your face honesty, then this is the book for you. After watching Mr Madeley on the telly, over the last few years, one is struck, immediately, at how his voice comes to mind as you read this book - a sure sign of its authenticity. Relationships between children and parents are often a never ending war of attrition - with a winner, in many cases, not emerging until one has left the family home. All aspects of family life are included in this heart rending autobiography - some good (his genuine love for Judy's children), some bad (his own upbringing). Whatever the subject, though, Mr Madeley brings it to life in his own trademark fashion. The result is an entertaining and thought provoking read. This is the best book on family life I have read since I finished One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele - another book that dealt with the barbed subject of family relations, albeit with race playing a part as well. In short, this is a book that should be purchased by anyone in the parenthood 'game'.

A remarkable true story, movingly told, 20 Oct 2008
I have been a fan of Richard's TV work for a long time, but i never knew a) what an amazing family history Richard has and b) how well he can write. The book opens with the story of Richard's grandfather when a child, waking up to find he has been abandoned by his whole family, who have moved to Canada to start a new life without him. It's a heartbreaking tale and like so many of the chapters in this book, it almost defies belief. The book is packed with wonderful anecdotes and stories from the past generations of Richard's family all told in that familiar, honest and really engaging way that you expect from Richard. I couldnt put it down and have already recommended to just about everyone i happen to meet!

Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese , 11 Oct 2008
'Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese' is a stunning look at the history of both Burlesque and Fetish from the point of view of one of the most famous models and Burlesque dancers of today, Dita Von Teese. It has stunning imagery and is well presented, without being lascivious or in poor taste. This book is class all the way. The various sections focusing on the history of both arts are fascinating, with information you would never have considered and you can tell Dita is both knowledgeable and passionate about her art. If you're a fan of Dita or just interested in Burlesque or Fetish then this is an excellent place to go, and though slightly unorthodox, this would make a wonderful coffee table book.

Stunning and Beautiful, 18 Jan 2008
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book when it came out and it's only now that I am writing my own review.

I love every page of this book and recently I went to her only british book signing at Waterstones and I could not decide which page I wanted her to sign! (She is even more beautiful and amazing in person!!!) Buy it and then treasure this book forever, if you love Dita, Burlesque, old movie star glamour, lingerie....anything girly!

Stunning photography if a little sparse, 12 Jan 2008
I adore Dita, I'd love to kidnap her and keep her under my bed but alas it is not to be.
I loved that this book came in two parts, the front has dita in softer, artistic glamour poses, and the back more fetish and burlesque glamour. The book is a little basic, with bullet points which does give off a little "dummies guide" kind of feel...but over all its worth the money.


lovely, 01 Nov 2007
A great book, beautiful photographs and a real inspiration. Well worth having. Dita is a real officianado of everything glamourous and i really enjoy looking through this book whenever i need a boost of self belief and confidence to really express myself. vive le nouveux burlesque revolution!

Overpriced , Overrated and the same goes for the book as well, 29 Sep 2007
Overpriced calendar. I love burlesque , which can be witty , alluring , sexy and creative. This is a bunch of pictures with hollow commentary. If you want pictures to gawk at well there you go this book is perfect for you. If you're getting this book because you want to know more about Dita von Teese well it's pretty vacuous so are Dita's live perfomances.

Ms Calman does it again!, 24 Sep 2008
Ms Calman hits the jackpot once more with How 'not' to murder your mother! Having nodded in agreement all the way through Confessions of a Bad Mother and Failed Grown up I wasn't sure if, given my own wonderful relationship with my mother, How 'not' to Murder Your Mother would ring true. My goodness me! I laughed, I cried and I did nod along! A very honest and heartfelt book that anyone who has ever had a mother should read!

A British Charitable Institution?, 11 Aug 2008
Sue Martin's harrowing account of the physical and mental abuse and tortue at the hands of so-called carers has changed my perception of the charity under which she was placed. It is certainly one I'll never give to again. Not until they explain such treatment and what they intend to do to atone for their unspeakable inhuman behaviour towards children.

Inspirational, 29 Apr 2008
Once I started reading Sue's book I couldn't put it down. A very moving, at times very distressing account of what life could be like in Children's Homes in the 40's and 50's What also comes across is Sue's courage, strength of character and determination to beat the system. I look forward to the sequel.

WHAT A GIRL !!, 27 Mar 2008
This is absolutely worth reading ! Sue goes through terrible torment and abuse, but what a personality she has ! She works out in her own child`s mind how she`s going to deal with everybody - and carries it through - and it works ! One important fact you learn from this book - it`s not always men that abuse children.....

Brilliant book...., 15 Feb 2008
I read this book after it being recommended to me by my daughter and I felt compelled to write this review to let everyone know just what a brilliant book it is! From the moment of starting it, I just couldn't put it down. I'm not a fast reader so it took me a few days to read it despite this but I loved every minute of it. Her story is both tragic and heart-wrenching and enables one to be able to put their own troubles and hardships in perspective. My heart goes out to the author and all those children who suffered through similar experiences. So if you haven't read this book yet, please do so. I just hope that a sequel is forthcoming soon because I can't wait to find out what happens next...

A moving and inspirational book.., 14 Jan 2008
From the moment I started this book I couldn't put it down! I cried in many places but was also inspired by Sue's courage and fortitude. She is an inspiration to us all! This is without a doubt one of the best books of it's kind I have ever read and I have read a great many of them!
I would also like to point out that this review is not at all influenced or biased by the fact that I have known Sue and her family personally for many years. She is a wonderful person, full of warmth and generosity and a terrific friend, mother and grandmother. I am proud, not only to know her but also for her amazing courage in sharing her story with the world. Well done Sue!

Thorough and thoroughly engaging!, 01 Jan 2008
Antonia Frazer makes history alive and completely interesting. This book separates fact from fiction regarding the Wives of King Henry VIII. There are many pieces of information regarding Henry and his wives that historians disagree upon. Frazer discusses WHY she came to the conclusions she did and discusses the alternative viewpoints of other historians. This detail in particular really impressed me. (Of course, it was a little disappointing, however, to discover that Katherine Howard didn't actually cry out her love for Thomas Culpepper from the scaffold, though!)

This book provides more than a brief overview to all six of these fascinating women. It really discusses their lives--as related to Henry and to the times-- in much detail, covering many important points while clarifying misconceptions and legend from fact.

Great reading about six fascinating women!, 23 Aug 2007
Antonia Fraser's book focuses on the six queens as individuals, one chapter about each queen. They are very different personalities and no doubt there was quite a bit of jalousy between them. Anne Boleyn (2 - The Most Happy?) may seem the most colourful and famous of the six, but this book shows that both Catherine of Aragon (1, Arthur's Dearest Spouse), Jane Seymor (3 - Entirely beloved), Anna of Cleves (4 - An Unendurable bargain), Katherine Howard (5 - Old Man's Jewel) and Catherine Parr (6 - Obedient to Husbands) were all every bit as interesting.

I felt very sympathetic to these ladies. Maybe in particular, Anna of Cleves, whose marriage to the King was never consummated and finally nullified. After 6 months as Queen, the docile lady Anna submit to the King's will and spent over 17 years as a "good Sister", never to return to her native Germany. Her burial place is, however, magnificient, her fine tomb to be found in Westminster Abbey.

The book also explains a lot about the King's relationship with his queens as a young man, when he was a strapping attractive youth, not only the old, sick and fat man who is usually pictured/painted in history books. It would not have been difficult for a young woman to fall in love with, as the book says, "this fine figure of a man, with his tall blond good looks".

The reason for the many marriages and their unfortunate/cruel outcome, was Henry VIII's desperate attempt to get at least one male heir to the throne. His marriages failed in ensuring this succession, and therein lay the unique fate of his six queens and the religious and political developments in England during Henry's reign.

There was, of course, Edward, Prince of Wales, his son by Jane Seymour. But Edward was not strong and died at an early age. In the end, his daughter by Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth, became Queen Elizabeth I of England, but in quite a different connection and not as a succession to her father.

I enjoyed Antonia Fraser's book immensely and learned numerous new facts about both the King himself and his six interesting queens.

This is a book which is not a tedious history lesson, marred by too many dates and facts. Apart from an interest in six unique women and a very special time in English history, one does not need any particular qualifications to read and enjoy this book. And at the same time, learn!



sympathetic personal biography, 09 Jul 2007
If, like me, most historical narratives are a bit hard going (all those dates and wars!) then this is a perfect antidote: Fraser focuses on the personal lives of Henry and his wives, relegating the politics to the background.

She manages to keep all the wives distinct and give them their own persoanlity which is excellent, as well as charting Henry's development from 'angelic' young king, to bloated monster (her words, not mine).

My only slight quibble was the pacing, since we lost some sense of time between Catherine of Aragorn's long marriage and the shorter interludes that followed, but that really was minor. The end after the death of Henry felt unnecessary too, but that's personal taste.

Where Fraser really excels is in taking the sterotypes and school-kid images of the wives and revealing the 'truth' (or one truth) behind them. She keeps a balance too, never siding with one wife over another.

Altogether an excellent read with a fine sense of period.

An excellent account of the women in Henry's life, 07 Aug 2006
Antonia Fraser writes a very sympathetic account of the 6 wives of Henry VIII. She lets none of these wives to stand in Henry's shadow - instead, each one has certain characteristics of her own, whether uncommon intelligence, courage, unwavering influence, beauty, or skill of manipulation. Luckily for us, Ms Fraser abandons the view of Henry as despicable tyrant in favour of an intelligent ruler who often consulted his wives on political matters, discussed various aspects of the arts with them, and so often proved to be a much more gentle Henry than history tends to show. This is a lovely, well-researched narrative that includes excerpts from letters and diaries; each section is divided into 3-5 chapters that focus on an individual wife and her relationship with the king.

Good to be the Queen?, 28 Apr 2006
Antonia Fraser's 'The Wives of Henry VIII' is a wonderful account of the lives of the six women who married the controversial Tudor king. Fraser has written extensively on many subjects, but is particularly interested in British royal history. Her writing is clear and accessible, and almost invariably interesting.

Fraser says 'the six women have become defined in a popular sense not so much by their lives as by the way these lives ended.' Largely, they became identified (as most historical figures do) as stereotypes. Fraser's stated intent in the book is to examine the real women behind the stereotypes, to find the human strengths and frailties behind the historic labels.

Divorced, beheaded, died...divorced, beheaded, survived

-Catherine of Aragon-
Divorced
Stereotype: Betrayed Wife, bigoted Catholic
Reality: a learned woman, politically astute, perhaps not entirely blameless in the break-up (but then, what can one expect? Divorce was presumably out of the question given religious and political considerations, so might she have felt safe to be more forward than anyone should be with the formidible Henry?)

-Anne Boleyn-
Beheaded
Stereotype: Temptress, Protestant activist
Reality: she was more Protestant because the Catholic church wouldn't recognise or grant the divorce. She played a demur and devout character in court, but then, could she have publicly appeared as anything else, given the unprecedented events going on about her and because of her? She didn't have a chance to build up a power base, and suffered greatly for it. Indignatio principis mors est. Little known fact: Anne was actually divorced from Henry on the eve of her execution.

-Jane Seymour-
Died
Stereotype: the Good Woman, Protestant yet Catholic
Reality: 'Jane Seymour was exactly the kind of female praised by the contemporary handbooks to correct conduct; just as Anne Boleyn had been the sort they warned against. There was certainly no threatening sexuality about her.' Henry would look back on Jane as the wife with whom he had been uniquely happy. She died as a result of the stress of childbirth (a not uncommon fate of women of any class), Henry's only legitimate male heir.

-Anna of Cleves-
Divorced
Stereotype: Ugly Sister, Lutheran and Catholic
Reality: an interesting and difficult marriage to put together. 'Paradoxically, the King in his last forties, gross, no likely object of desire, was far more difficult to please than that handsome boy of 1509, ready to fall in love where policy directed him, whom any girl might easily love in return.' By this time, of course, Henry had a reputation of being at the least an unlucky husband. Solemn, looking older than her age, Anna was almost instantly disliked. Perhaps this saved her from a worse fate, if Henry had come to know her and then fall out of love with her.

-Katherine Howard-
Beheaded
Stereotype: the Bad Girl
Reality: Katherine was expected to produce the 'spare' to the heir produced by Jane. 'Katherine was, on her own admission, one who knew how to "meddle with a man" without conceiving a child.' Her affair with Culpeper not discreet enough, Katherine suffered the fury of Henry, who blamed his Council for forcing on him 'a succession of such ill-conditioned wives.'

-Catherine Parr-
Survived
Stereotype: the Mother Figure
Reality: not well educated but not unintelligent, a caring but politically astute person. 'As for the King himself, it was remarked that as Bishop Gardiner pronounced the now familiar words of the marriage service, an expression of real happiness crossed that bloated face.' She had taken as her motto 'To be useful in all I do.'

Fraser goes into detail about the lives, and the aftermath, what became of these women, even to the extent of recounting the period neglect and restorations of their graves. Speaking of Catherine of Aragon, she writes: 'It is rare to find the Queen's grave without fresh flowers placed upon it. Nothing is known about those who over the years have performed this touching act of respect. One can however safely assume that, whatever their own religious view, they agree with this estimate of the character of Catherine of Aragon: loyal, pious, courageous and compassionate.'




Real Life Autism, 16 Jun 2008
A very moving and interesting account of living with autism. I liked the way the vulnerability and the fragility of David's life was shown with such love and poignancy. Often (unintentionally) autistic children are protrayed as frightening destructive creatures because they don't understand the rules of life. This book showed us, as far as is possible, how the world looks from the point of view of the child.

Brilliant!, 30 Mar 2008
I read this book in one day (okay I was on a train to London and back!) It is one of the funniest, most moving and emotional books I have ever read. It is not inviting you to feel sorry for either the boy in the book or the parents but a portrayal of how life is for them as a family, including the older son. It was funny enough to make me laugh out loud, illiciting some strange looks from the other passengers in the compartment, and also made me swallow once or twice at particularly emotive descriptions. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

IN YOUR DREAMS, STYLE, 08 Nov 2008
Avoid this book like the plague,it pulls you in and is interesting for the 1st 100 pages or so then keeps re-hashing the the same thing over again,if you believe anything in this book you'll also believe in the tooth fairy,I persevered until the the end and it did'nt half make my head ache,what a load of cobblers, Nurse where's my aspirin.

Fun to read, but cop-out ending..., 20 Oct 2008
Recommended to me by friends telling me it had changed 'their entire perspective on dating', not to mention their 'success rate', the book follows a self-confessed dating loser who hooks up to a community of pick-up artists and then becomes a master himself.

Techniques in seduction are expanded upon and success follows, as our hero 'Style' gets to date women way out of his supposed league, and basically lives the life of Riley with a group of fellow serial daters in Hollywood until egos tear apart the lifestyle they had built together.

Very well written and a real eye-opener. Many will baulk at the morality of how far the PUAs are willing to go to hit on women, (it's not really lying, but the whole truth just isn't as interesting...) but the story also focuses on the importance of self improvement in the quest to become more attractive to the opposite sex.

The only disappointment come as the story reaches the final act, and our hero, after ridiculing the chumps hankering after the one special girl, then proceeds to fall in love himself, give up his lifestyle and, well, you can guess the rest. But don't let the denouement put you off, if you are interested in personal growth and development, you won't find a more inspirational and funny story to point the way.

What a ride!, 01 Oct 2008
Anyone looking for a book on how to pick up chicks, this is not it. This is the story of 2 years in the life of Neil Strauss aka Style. A man who infultrated an underground society of Pick Up Artists.

The journey takes you on an international ride of the highs and lows in the life of a Pick Up Artist.

Fantastic read. Neil Strauss is a great story teller.

Fantastic book..., 13 Sep 2008
I thought this book was great. Was expecting some sort of manual about seduction but it is written as a story. This gets you hooked in straight away and i found it hard to put down because you want to know what happens next. Book is very American though and some of the lines they use are pure cheese and you can imagine using on American girls but dont reccomend using them on English girls ( prob get punched in the face, i would if some wierdo started going on about cubes and v and c shaped smiles). The techniques do work and i would suggest getting books to build confidence as some of the techniques you will need alot of confidence but they are not really that hard to apply. Do yourself a favour and get this. It is a best selling book and averaging 5 stars, that says it all really

I haven't read it yet, but..., 23 Jul 2008
I have a few friends who have shared it around in order to have more confidence with the fairer sex. They are all good people, a world away from the 'scumbags' that some of the hypocritical ignorant negative reviews have spoken of (the same people who hated the generalisations of women in the book itself), and within a few weeks they'd ALL managed to find potential long-term girlfriends. Therefore, I might as well give it a go.

Honesty personified., 29 Oct 2008
If you like searing emotion and in your face honesty, then this is the book for you. After watching Mr Madeley on the telly, over the last few years, one is struck, immediately, at how his voice comes to mind as you read this book - a sure sign of its authenticity. Relationships between children and parents are often a never ending war of attrition - with a winner, in many cases, not emerging until one has left the family home. All aspects of family life are included in this heart rending autobiography - some good (his genuine love for Judy's children), some bad (his own upbringing). Whatever the subject, though, Mr Madeley brings it to life in his own trademark fashion. The result is an entertaining and thought provoking read. This is the best book on family life I have read since I finished One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele - another book that dealt with the barbed subject of family relations, albeit with race playing a part as well. In short, this is a book that should be purchased by anyone in the parenthood 'game'.

A remarkable true story, movingly told, 20 Oct 2008
I have been a fan of Richard's TV work for a long time, but i never knew a) what an amazing family history Richard has and b) how well he can write. The book opens with the story of Richard's grandfather when a child, waking up to find he has been abandoned by his whole family, who have moved to Canada to start a new life without him. It's a heartbreaking tale and like so many of the chapters in this book, it almost defies belief. The book is packed with wonderful anecdotes and stories from the past generations of Richard's family all told in that familiar, honest and really engaging way that you expect from Richard. I couldnt put it down and have already recommended to just about everyone i happen to meet!

Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese , 11 Oct 2008
'Burlesque and the Art of the Teese / Fetish and the Art of the Teese' is a stunning look at the history of both Burlesque and Fetish from the point of view of one of the most famous models and Burlesque dancers of today, Dita Von Teese. It has stunning imagery and is well presented, without being lascivious or in poor taste. This book is class all the way. The various sections focusing on the history of both arts are fascinating, with information you would never have considered and you can tell Dita is both knowledgeable and passionate about her art. If you're a fan of Dita or just interested in Burlesque or Fetish then this is an excellent place to go, and though slightly unorthodox, this would make a wonderful coffee table book.

Stunning and Beautiful, 18 Jan 2008
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book when it came out and it's only now that I am writing my own review.

I love every page of this book and recently I went to her only british book signing at Waterstones and I could not decide which page I wanted her to sign! (She is even more beautiful and amazing in person!!!) Buy it and then treasure this book forever, if you love Dita, Burlesque, old movie star glamour, lingerie....anything girly!

Stunning photography if a little sparse, 12 Jan 2008
I adore Dita, I'd love to kidnap her and keep her under my bed but alas it is not to be.
I loved that this book came in two parts, the front has dita in softer, artistic glamour poses, and the back more fetish and burlesque glamour. The book is a little basic, with bullet points which does give off a little "dummies guide" kind of feel...but over all its worth the money.


lovely, 01 Nov 2007
A great book, beautiful photographs and a real inspiration. Well worth having. Dita is a real officianado of everything glamourous and i really enjoy looking through this book whenever i need a boost of self belief and confidence to really express myself. vive le nouveux burlesque revolution!

Overpriced , Overrated and the same goes for the book as well, 29 Sep 2007
Overpriced calendar. I love burlesque , which can be witty , alluring , sexy and creative. This is a bunch of pictures with hollow commentary. If you want pictures to gawk at well there you go this book is perfect for you. If you're getting this book because you want to know more about Dita von Teese well it's pretty vacuous so are Dita's live perfomances.

Ms Calman does it again!, 24 Sep 2008
Ms Calman hits the jackpot once more with How 'not' to murder your mother! Having nodded in agreement all the way through Confessions of a Bad Mother and Failed Grown up I wasn't sure if, given my own wonderful relationship with my mother, How 'not' to Murder Your Mother would ring true. My goodness me! I laughed, I cried and I did nod along! A very honest and heartfelt book that anyone who has ever had a mother should read!

A British Charitable Institution?, 11 Aug 2008
Sue Martin's harrowing account of the physical and mental abuse and tortue at the hands of so-called carers has changed my perception of the charity under which she was placed. It is certainly one I'll never give to again. Not until they explain such treatment and what they intend to do to atone for their unspeakable inhuman behaviour towards children.

Inspirational, 29 Apr 2008
Once I started reading Sue's book I couldn't put it down. A very moving, at times very distressing account of what life could be like in Children's Homes in the 40's and 50's What also comes across is Sue's courage, strength of character and determination to beat the system. I look forward to the sequel.

WHAT A GIRL !!, 27 Mar 2008
This is absolutely worth reading ! Sue goes through terrible torment and abuse, but what a personality she has ! She works out in her own child`s mind how she`s going to deal with everybody - and carries it through - and it works ! One important fact you learn from this book - it`s not always men that abuse children.....

Brilliant book...., 15 Feb 2008
I read this book after it being recommended to me by my daughter and I felt compelled to write this review to let everyone know just what a brilliant book it is! From the moment of starting it, I just couldn't put it down. I'm not a fast reader so it took me a few days to read it despite this but I loved every minute of it. Her story is both tragic and heart-wrenching and enables one to be able to put their own troubles and hardships in perspective. My heart goes out to the author and all those children who suffered through similar experiences. So if you haven't read this book yet, please do so. I just hope that a sequel is forthcoming soon because I can't wait to find out what happens next...

A moving and inspirational book.., 14 Jan 2008
From the moment I started this book I couldn't put it down! I cried in many places but was also inspired by Sue's courage and fortitude. She is an inspiration to us all! This is without a doubt one of the best books of it's kind I have ever read and I have read a great many of them!
I would also like to point out that this review is not at all influenced or biased by the fact that I have known Sue and her family personally for many years. She is a wonderful person, full of warmth and generosity and a terrific friend, mother and grandmother. I am proud, not only to know her but also for her amazing courage in sharing her story with the world. Well done Sue!

Thorough and thoroughly engaging!, 01 Jan 2008
Antonia Frazer makes history alive and completely interesting. This book separates fact from fiction regarding the Wives of King Henry VIII. There are many pieces of information regarding Henry and his wives that historians disagree upon. Frazer discusses WHY she came to the conclusions she did and discusses the alternative viewpoints of other historians. This detail in particular really impressed me. (Of course, it was a little disappointing, however, to discover that Katherine Howard didn't actually cry out her love for Thomas Culpepper from the scaffold, though!)

This book provides more than a brief overview to all six of these fascinating women. It really discusses their lives--as related to Henry and to the times-- in much detail, covering many important points while clarifying misconceptions and legend from fact.

Great reading about six fascinating women!, 23 Aug 2007
Antonia Fraser's book focuses on the six queens as individuals, one chapter about each queen. They are very different personalities and no doubt there was quite a bit of jalousy between them. Anne Boleyn (2 - The Most Happy?) may seem the most colourful an