Mainly sharing from his own experiences gleaned over decades of relationship building, Karplus (author of Illustrated DACEASY Accounting) proposes a handful of recommendations in unfussy, candid prose that readers will find easy to grasp and implement. Whether a relationship goes the distance or ends amicably, Karplus asserts that, by focusing on communication, realistic expectations, and the importance of transparent boundaries, readers can build a connection “in which both relationship members happily give and get what they want from it.” He addresses potential roadblocks to that success as well, including what he terms the “disastrous trend” of social media (“a virtual reality that allows humans to have virtual relationships behind a screen and to avoid face-to face contact with other humans,” he writes) and unclear expectations that only set relationships up for failure.
What’s most helpful here are Karplus’s exercises and prompts, as he includes action items at the end of every chapter to practice his recommendations as well as several assignments to help readers deepen their interpersonal bonds (generating ideas for common activities and manifesting components of self-love are two that stand out). He calls for self-awareness and self-reflection as the first steps to establishing a successful relationship, leaving readers with the thought that “relationships are not simple… [but] they can provide partnerships that last a lifetime.”
Takeaway: Down-to-earth resource for building and maintaining successful relationships.
Comparable Titles: Jay Shetty's 8 Rules of Love, Jimmy Evans's The Four Laws of Love.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A-
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: B+
Marketing copy: A
