Don’t Ask And I Won’t Have to Lie: “50 is the new 30” and other tall tales
Don’t Ask And I Won’t Have to Lie: “50 is the new 30” and other tall tales
Beverly Mahone
Reviewed by: Anne Holmes for the NABBW
This is Mahone’s third book, and sort of like the old “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, it gives baby boomer women permission to say whatever we feel will benefit the listener.
Mahone says this book is not for you if:
- You’ve never lied to your children – “I’m sure Billy sent you an invitation to his birthday party, honey. It must have gotten lost in the mail…”
- You’ve never lied to get out of a jam – “But officer, I really DID put enough money for two hours of parking into that meter…”
- You’ve never had to stretch the truth to spare the feelings of a friend or loved one – “You look great with pink hair – and that Mohawk style is so daring. Few businesswomen would have the panache to pull it off. But you’ve got what it takes…”
- You’ve never lied to your boss or co-worker – “I won’t be able to work today, I’ve been up all night, sick as a dog. It must be something I ate…”
- You’ve never checked Caller ID before answering the phone – Personally, I have audible Caller ID on my phone, and I’d never think to answer it unless I first listen to know who’s calling…
- You’ve never disguised your voice to a bill collector or telemarketer — “No Anne’s not home right now, and I’m not sure when she’ll be back. This is her sister…
And what woman hasn’t at one time or another lied about her weight, age or a sexual experience? This book explores some of the subjects we lie about, why we do it and the role aging plays in the process. It’s not meant to defend anyone’s need to fib, but instead to help understand the reasons why we do.
Don’t miss the appendices for the liar’s journal, which is a fun exercise, and the “comforting girlfriend’s survey.” This book is lighthearted and fun, with a boatload of truth behind it…
