The Man's Book

I was provided with a review copy of The Man's Book, by Thomas Fink. It is billed as "the essential guide for the modern man", and is intended to be used as a reference book for subjects men are either interested in, or need to be informed about.

The Man's Book covers, in varying degrees of detail:

• the various ways one can tie a necktie
• the way to identify the type of cigar by diameter
• a list of essential tools every man should own
• where to stand at an array of urinals (including a 67 question test on the subject)
• an extensive exploration into wine and spirits
• lists of manly films and books
• and even instructions for building a treehouse

Although not intended to be a humourous book, some of the subject matter can be found entertaining, if for no other reason than the straightforward, clinical manner in which it is discussed. It is thoroughly referenced with an exhaustive table of contents and index for easy look up, and the per-subject style makes it a perfect bathroom book (as noted by William).

I thoroughly enjoyed The Man's Book, and will continue to refer to it in the future. I think it would make an excellent gift for Father's Day, or a graduating young man, or pretty much any adolescent or adult male on your list.