THE COMPLETE IDIOT'S GUIDE TO COPING WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE

Kate Burns misses no meaning or nuance as she delivers a sensitive reading of this superb book on managing problem people. She's articulate, mature-sounding, and emotionally connected in all the right places. After the author, a New York psychotherapist and professor, unfolds an intelligent review of why relationships can be so frustrating at this point in history, she describes four categories of difficult people--the self-absorbed, the controlling, the obstructionist, and the toxic. She explains how to approach each type and how to manage the emotions they provoke in ourselves. Her thoughtful organization and "how-to" focus make this an invaluable guide. Best of all, the author makes her game plans sound inclusive and altruistic rather than merely self-protective. T.W. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2008]