It's Just another Self -Help Book, Isn't It?

Personally I am not a huge fan of self-help books (although I will admit to reading He's Just Not That Into You and It's Called a Break-up Because It's Broken when in a low point). They start off so promising, but who has the time or the will power to follow all the rules and advice that they present. Life is a little more complex then self-help books realize. 

That being said I just completed reading a self-help/dating book that isn't really a self-help book. Jessica Massa's The Gaggle: How the Guys You Know Will Help You Find the Love You Want, offered a surprising new take on post-dating relationships in this crazy new age. Instead of prescribing a set amount of rules to help you get over an ex or find the man of your dreams, Massa helps readers realize that by analyzing the men in your life (your gaggle) you can understand what you want in a man and how to get it. There are 10 men in every woman's gaggle whether she realizes it or not, there is: the ego booster, the ex boyfriend who's still around, the hot sex prospect, the career booster, the guy who just blew you off, the super horny guy who happens to be around a lot, and the boyfriend prospect. While you're most likely not going to find your true love in your gaggle of guy friends understanding what they offer and what they mean to you can help you realize what you need to have a satisfying and meaningful relationship. 

Massa also goes into what compromises a guy's gaggle and it was particularly enlightening. Guy's girl friends comprised of: the girlfriend prospect, the work wife, the short term investment, the last resort, the girl who's out of his league, the friend he's just not that into, the challenge, the crazy girl, the (maybe) one, and the possibility. 

It was really interesting figuring out what guy's gaggles I fit into and what categories different men in my life fit into. I also appreciated that this book wasn't meant to solve the hidden secrets of romance or offer ridiculous advice in order to snag a man. Massa interviewed hundred's of men and women (aged 22-35) and used their enlightening answers to come up with this quirky and eye-opening read. Definitely worth a read (even for you guys out there!).

I received this book for free from Goodread's giveaways in return for my honest, unbiased opinion.