English Etiquette: The Motivation Behind the Manners

Good little refresher course on the reasons behind good manners and basic decency. Sadly, these things are approaching extinction in our shallow society which glorifies self-expression as the be-all and end-all of life.This book has a British slant, making it more interesting. It is healthy to see different viewpoints. The book is easy to read, and worth reading. But I didn’t like the author’s slightly archaic views (revealed late in the book) about giving her husband the ultimate authority in their household. What? Surely there are better solutions, such as sharing and cooperation.

I just finished English Etiquette by Alena Kate Pettitt and thoroughly enjoyed it! I’m a self described Anglophile and loved all the English references and details but it’s not a book about or for just the English. The book is a delightful and charming how-to guide. How to return to a more genteel, vintage, classic and well mannered lifestyle. The book is filled with all the common sense details that are reminiscent of better times, when home, family and community were filled with rules that were dictated mainly by kindness, thoughtfulness and grace. I recommend it to anyone interested in a return to ‘old school’ civility.

I was really hoping for more of a history behind the practice book rather than this is why it is good manners to do this.

What I liked best about this book is it focuses on the "motivation behind the manners," vs. a straightforward "this is the fork you eat with" type of etiquette. It provides an insight into why the English do things the way they do, and some simple changes you can make to incorporate a refined English lifestyle into your world even if you live far away from the UK. The author stresses that an English lifestyle is a mindset, and it really doesn't matter where you live! This would make a great gift for anyone who loves England, the royals, or etiquette.

This is a beautiful and oh so inspirational book! I truly believe we need so much more of this in the world we are living in -and anyone missing a kinder and better mannered society will enjoy reading both of Alena’s books (I am now starting “Ladies like us”). I love that it focuses not on the “what to do” but the “why” we do it. The reason being, helping and serving others. Creating a more caring, kinder and less self-centred world. God knows we are in desperate need of it!

Loved this book! Such a different but lovely guide to manners because it focuses on the heart and kindness of manners instead of just outward appearances. My only disappointment was how much of the book was dedicated to wardrobe outfitting. That is subjective and ever-changing. I would have preferred more written about the graces of the heart and relationships with others.The author seems like a wonderful person and I’d like to learn more from her.

I have been a huge Anglophile my entire life. I was so excited to read such a lovely book that gives so much insight about the English lifestyle. This is a much needed book for 2019, because it encourages good manners and civility in a time when I believe that most people have forgotten what that means. It leaves you with a very positive mindset and is an enjoyable read. ----Little_Brick_home

I am learning some useful concepts, even though I’m starting to find the book too wordy. I think the author has a strong ‘traditional wife’ world-view that goes beyond ‘etiquette.’ It’s not really what I was hoping for when I purchased the book, but there are some good perspectives that are helpful.

Good book for reading

cinque stelle perché oltre al pacco consegnato in tempo e senza danni, il libro è davvero interessante e scritto in inglese scorrevole e piacevole .Non può mancare per gli appassionati di "english etiquette" !

Best book on the subject ever! I highly recommend it! This book is exactly what I always wanted! Johanne from Canada

The author does a lovely job of updating traditional etiquette and showing us why it is still so important today. Full of practical tips and gentle reminders of 'old fashioned' values that will always hold true. This is not about using the right fork at dinner, but showing consideration and kindness for others - in whatever social setting you happen to find yourself. This book would make an excellent gift for any young lady leaving home to make her way in the world - or indeed anyone looking to bring a little extra English charm to their life!

Good read.