Lifescripts for Family and Friends : What to Say in 101 of Life's Most Troubling and Uncomfortable Situations

Ever had to turn down a friend for a loan? Ask your teen about birth control? Suggest to your dad it's time to stop driving? No one likes these discussions. They have ways of spiraling out of control until the original subject matter has completely evaporated. Happily, Erik Kolbell has come to our rescue with Lifescripts, a book devoted to simple flow charts detailing how to handle these difficult conversations.

Divided into chapters based on relationships, you can easily flip to the proper section: friends, parents, children, siblings, or spouse. Within each chapter is a series of situations with probable samples of the dialog that is likely to result. Is Dad worried he'll be stuck at home when he stops driving? Reassure him with suggestions on alternative transport. Daughter too embarrassed to talk about her sex life? Gently insist on an appointment with a health-care professional to get matters resolved. Each situation includes a short description of strategy and tactics. In every case, it pays to remember that these conversations are not about blowing off steam, but rather accomplishing a very specific goal.

Put this book on an easily accessible shelf. That way you'll know right where to find it when another of life's little surprises heads your way. --Jill Lightner