How to Get Things Really Flat

September 15, 2009
The first thing you need to know about this book is that it isnt a spoof. Originally published in Britain in 2008, Martins lighthearted but quite handy guide looks at the reasons why men dont help out around the house as much as they ought to and proposes what can be done about that. The author recounts his own journey from helpless, befuddled male to enthusiastic helper-outer, showing us along the way that such seemingly complicated tasks as doing the laundry or vacuuming can easily be mastered if men simply apply themselves. The book retains its British idioms and phrasings, but Martin has helpfully included footnotes that explain some of the more obscure references. He also offers up a down-and-dirty history of household chores, which should at least make us appreciate our modern conveniences, even if were still not inclined to use them. But, after reading this offbeat and thoroughly delightful guide to housework, its hard to imagine anyone not wanting to give this stuff a try. Martin does what your mother never could: he makes doing your chores seem fun, exciting, and rewarding.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)