SELF-HELP

A Movie Lover’s Search for Romance

by Joanna J. Charnas

MSI. Jun. 2020. 134p. ISBN 9781950328062. pap. $19.95. SELF-HELP/RELATIONSHIPS

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In a shift from her former work (Living Well with Chronic Illness; 100 Tips and Tools for Managing Chronic Illness), social worker Charnas recounts 15 years of her postdivorce life in middle age. In the first section, Charnas summarizes her many dates and crushes and—one has to hand it to her—doesn’t trash a one of them. Imagine the author writing a diary before and after each date. The intriguing premise includes the interweaving of specific movies that tie into the emotions and actions of each date. Charnas is a knowledgeable movie buff who consistently compares her experiences to relevant films (e.g., Coming Home, Pretty Woman, When Harry Met Sally). But that is not all. The author gleans knowledge only born of experience when she reports of lessons learned: for example, back away from confused men, trust your instincts, and have faith that you’re never too old or too anything to have wonderful romantic experiences.

VERDICT An encouraging read for the 40-plus single woman who is thrown into the dating world and is trying to mesh real life with that depicted in the movies.

Reviewed by Deborah Bigelow, Director Emerita, Leonia P.L., NJ , Jun 19, 2020

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