Advice from the Empty Nest is meant to do just what it says, provide advice. The perspective is that of an older person, admittedly traditional in nature, speaking to people in their 30s who are about to embark on marriage, or partnership, possibly having children and raising them. While traditional in setting, the advice can serve well anyone who is coupling and moving forward in a familial environment. The advice is not given in a parental fashion, as that might be perceived as officious, but more avuncular in nature.
The style of the book is conversational, a little off-hand and homespun, somewhat in the style of Bill Bryson, but nowhere near as detailed, and occasionally humorous. Chapter topics are purposely short and eclectic, ranging from “Buy a Good Can Opener” to “Disney World: When to Go and Other Tips” and “How to Pick a Home, a Neighborhood, a Community,” to more thoughtful pieces as in “I Love You,” “I Gave Away My Train Set Today,” “Love Never Dies”, “Too Nice a Day to Die”, and “Should I Go (Back) to Church” Almost all chapters blend practical advice with a philosophical rationale, setting a framework for decision-making on the topic, some even with questions to ask. Rarely is advice given as to what specific decision is to be made; rather the advice focuses on what the decision means to the reader and urges the reader to think carefully about the real impact of the decision.
Chapter topics are almost randomly positioned, but purposely alternating between minor, more casual topics, and others that are more serious and thoughtful. This is a non-linear book that can be picked up and read in short intervals and in any order. The reader might just need one particular chapter, and once reading or at least scanning the book, it can be used as a reference tool, when needed. The book is not meant to be read only one time, just for enjoyment or to kill time in the airport. In fact, it is meant to be kept and used and passed along. It is a book that Martha Stewart or the Today Show could recommend and would be a great gift. This is an enjoyable book to read, and one that will provide help and value for years to come.