gothiccharmschool:

book-a-day-2016:

I have been aware of the delightful @gothiccharmschool for quite some time now, largely through her interactions with folk I follow here on tumblr. 

What I did not know until a couple of weeks ago was that she wrote an etiquette book. 

I discovered the existence of this darling and informative book at work, when I suddenly found myself holding a signed first edition paperback with her name on the cover. To say I was excited would be an understatement. (I squealed and flapped and found every coworker in the room to show the book to, then promptly borrowed it to read.)

Having now read the entirety of Gothic Charm School, I definitely recommend it to everyone. 

Why? Let’s make a list.

1. It’s an actual etiquette book about Goth culture for both Goths and those who are not Goth but know or encounter Goths. 

2. The writing style is both easy to read and positively charming. 

3. Actual practical advice for social situations that can be applied well outside interactions with Goths. (As an autistic person who doesn’t try to hide my neurodivergence behind a neurotypical act all the time, I really like much of the advice in here. Please follow it. You’ll make me happy.)

4. Actual practical advice for everything from clothing alterations to getting candle wax out of shag carpets. Life skills, people! Everyone should know these things–one day you could be someone’s hero.

5. Learning manners is important.

6. Learning about subcultures you don’t understand is important.

7. The fantastic illustrations by the talented Pete Venters.

8. The wit and humor in this book is spot on and made me laugh aloud several times and smile a lot. On public transit. So there. 

Seriously, if you’ve never thought to pick up an etiquette book, do yourself a favor and pick up this etiquette book. You won’t regret it. 

Find a copy here! Or, if you’re in Portland, Oregon, get yourself downtown to Powell’s–the copy I have is going back on the shelf tomorrow, awaiting someone to come and take it home for keeps. 

I am being totally vain and self-promoting, because this review of my book made me smile. Thank you, @book-a-day-2016!

(Also, thank you for calling out that the copy you read was a first edition! That’s right, folks, Gothic Charm School: an Essential Guide for Goths and Those Who Love Them is officially in it’s 2nd printing! I’m still flabbergasted by that. ::grin:: )