Relationship Books

[x1813]

I've been recomended "Everything I know about love" by Dolly Alderton. It's won awards but is it actaully good in terms of relationships?

(Too many of these books!!)

I’m not sure about relationship books, you might be better posting in the relationship section on MN. You’ll get some very honest advice [smile[

Many thanks. Been a bit busy for a while but wondered if I was posting in wrong place.

@x1813 one book that really helped DP and I was The Chimp Paradox by Steve Peters. It’s not a relationship book per se, but it explains why our ‘instincts’ and anxieties can take hold and how to try and override unhelpful feelings.

Even without putting into practice any of the techniques, it’s useful to identify those moments where ‘your chimp’ is calling the shots and learn to keep it in check.

Another helpful concept I’ve found is that of love languages - I’m sure there will be a book about it but I’ve just read articles and that’s helped us to understand why, even when we feel that we are showing love, it may not be received in the same way, as we’re not speaking the same love language. Now that DP knows that acts of service are my main language, he understands how much it means to me when he does something practical - it’s not just being helpful, I see it as a way of expressing love. For others it may be words which are important, and hearing “I love you” could be more important than cuddles or sex etc. We all show and like to receive love in different ways and knowing which one means the most to each other can really help.

In general the Gottman Institute have some great relationship resources. Definitely sign up for some of their emails/Facebook page etc.

I personally wouldn't recommend the Dolly Alderton one unless you are a single twenty-something. She is a good writer but just goes on about her friends and their drunken escapades a lot. She hasn't actually been in any long term relationships (which she says in the book) so not an especially insightful book in that regard.

What kind of relationship book are you looking for?

Looking for marriage-related. Quite frankly for both of us. Thx for all the replies.

I posted this on the Relationship forum :

I've been recommended a number of 'relationship' books but would prefer to read one or two good ones rather than ploughing on indefinitely. Anyone have any insight on the following :
Everything I know about love by Dolly Alderton
How To Be a Husband by M Jones
Attached : Identify your attachment style by A Levine

At least one of these was recommended as a purchase for him indoors, but I've not heard of any of them.
P.S. There are more......but barely finding the time to find the right book, never mind read.