[.ca] 30 Things Everyone Should Know How to Do Before Turning 30 (ISBN 0767913973)

Random, Vague, and Unfunny:
My partner gave me this for my birthday last week, and since I can't tell him what I thought about it, here goes: It \ostunk\c! I mean, if you've been spoiled all your life and never had to do anything (like clean up your place in a hurry) the book may be for you. But overall, I found the author's tone to be irritating, and her directions incomplete (i.e. the wine ordering section simply tells you to order in the middle of the price sheet --- that's it?). To be sure, there were a few chapters that were intriguing: starting various fires, parallel parking; but the overwhelming majority of the book is filled with Adcock's yuppie instructions on what SHE thinks everyone should know.

great for over-30 too:
Adcock's wit and smart, funny writing makes me not mind that I'm catching up on some of these how-to's even though I'm past 30. A gem of a book--great as a gift or for yourself.

Witty AND Informative!:
I bought this book for a friend who just turned 30 but before I sent it on to her I had to take a peak inside--needless to say, I wound up keeping the book for myself! Siobhan Adcock is a wonderful writer with a charming and witty style. She kind of reminded me of a cross between David Sedaris and Emily Post! The book is both helpful and practical, with very easy to follow instructions, and devilishly entertaining. Buy it!

Most Informative for a self-described loaf:
I really enjoyed this book. I had no idea to fold a fitted sheet or whistle loudly. I especially like the more adult topics- choosing wine, furniture, baby- holding. Very informative and helpful. And I loved the cartoons.

Brooklyn Reader:
Wow! I loved this book. Not only is it a great how-to book, full of all sorts of practical and easy to follow advice, it's also hilarious. Ms. Adcock has a unique voice and her how-to essays are not your typical, put slot A into slot B descriptions. They are smart and charming vignettes that sympathize with what it's like to be a modern -- and often frazzled -- not-yet-thirty-something. Ms. Adcock gives great advice on how to become a more competent, and hopefully cooler, adult. I recommend highly.