Book Review For "What Was I Thinking? How Not to Date"

Book Review for: “What Was I Thinking? How Not to Date”
Written by: Annie Earley
Tribute Books/November 2007
ISBN: 978-0-9795045-8-7
111 pages
5 Stars

Earley pens a sharp and witty memoir with “What Was I Thinking? How Not to Date.” Recently divorced, Earley decides to enter the vast space of Internet dating. It’s adventurous, hazardous, and humorous as Earley shared her experiences with the reader.

The book opens with Earley revealing her Internet profile and the members of her “advisory committee.” I loved the idea of an advisory committee, trusted friends and family members who helped give Earley guidance and wisdom through her Internet dating adventures.

Earley writes with a unique brand of humor. While sharing her experiences, one of her first adventures involves a man called Antonio who wears leg warmers. He’s a decent enough guy, but definitely too quirky for a serious dating relationship.

Earley has several misadventures. There’s a Sponge Tom who is so cheap he can’t swing for an ice cream cone, and a busy body called “Skip to my Lou” Stew. There’s also a gangster looking guy with a shaved head that Earley refers to as Peter Lorre.

Earley soon realizes it’s good to have rules. Always meet at a public place for the first time. If the man’s picture is a little fuzzy, there’s probably a good reason for it. The world of Internet dating is definitely challenging for Earley. Will she find the man of her dreams on the Internet? Only time will tell.

Earley’s writing is sharp and crisp, laced with warmth and compassion. Each chapter is framed with a whimsical picture that embodies the theme of the chapter and makes the reader smile. She writes in a conversational style which engages the reader. Earley’s story is hard to put down. Her humor and honesty are a refreshing reminder that dating can have its rewards and its failure.

Earley’s tale is one many can identify with. Who hasn’t had a date that didn’t go well or clicked with someone over the phone only to discover there were no sparks when they met in person? Earley learns a lot about Internet dating and candidly shares her experiences. By the end of the novel, I just wanted to reach out and give her a reassuring hug. Earley’s story will touch the reader’s heart.

“What Was I Thinking? How Not to Date?” is a great read for those who Internet date or are interested in Internet dating. It offers guidance, tidbits, and anecdotes that while humorous, also educate. Two thumbs up for Earley’s story.

Book Review For "What Was I Thinking? How Not to Date"