Book Review: The Power of Respect

The Power of Respect
Benefit from the Most Forgotten Element of Success
By Deborah Norville
Hardcover; 205 pp.; $19.99
★★★☆☆

This book is somewhat interesting but by no means compelling. The central point--that our lives would be better if we showed greater respect to others--is worth hearing again, though it may have made a better magazine article than hardcover book.

Deboarah Norville, best known as a television personality, currently the host of Inside Edition, has collected an array of anecdotes and statistics that support her thesis. She applies the theme to six arenas:

• Home
• Relationships
• School
• Work
• Leadership
• Self

One strength of the book is the practical tips offered for cultivating respect in these areas of life; for example: Define rules for your children; Brag about your partner in front of others; and Give employees a voice in the workplace.

The weakness of the book is that there seems to be nothing new or uniquely insightful. The thesis itself is the book.

Also, the font size is particularly small making it a bit difficult to read.

I hope Norville's message succeeds, yet I rate the book itself is a so-so read. Buy it if you want a helpful reminder of our need for civility in relationships. If you're looking for a more in-depth study or a highly practical manual for relationships or leadership, take a pass.
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Buy my like-new copy for $10(plus S&H, US only).

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