Emily Post's Etiquette, 18

By Peggy Post, Anna Post, Lizzie Post and Daniel Post Senning

In this completely updated 18th Edition of the classic Emily Post’s Etiquette, the mantle is picked up by the great-great-grandchildren of the First Lady of Etiquette, who tackle the latest issues and demands of the twenty-first century—from texting and tweeting to iPhones, Facebook, and all forms of social media. 

Millions of Readers, Eighteen Editions, One Trusted Resource

From social networking to social graces, the name Emily Post has been the definitive source on etiquette for generations of Americans. That tradition continues with the 18th edition of Etiquette, which welcomes a new generation of Posts—Anna Post, Lizzie Post, and Daniel Post Senning—the great-great grandchildren of Emily Post. Led by Peggy Post, author of the 16th and 17th editions of Etiquette, this team shows how twenty-first-century manners are a combination of kindness, confidence, and awareness.

New trends, topics, and societal hot zones include:

• When is it okay to “unfriend” someone on Facebook?
• If I’m in a middle seat on an airplane, do I automatically get both armrests?
• A business client is sick with a cold—am I obligated to shake his hand?
• Is it rude for guests to tweet from a wedding?
• Do I have to buy a gift if I attend a destination wedding?
• Can I email a condolence note?
• Should I cover up my tattoo for a job interview?

The Posts don’t stint on classic conundrums, either. Emily Post’s Etiquette includes advice on names and titles, dress codes, invitations, table manners, workplace frustrations, and weddings.

According to the Posts, though times have changed, the principles of good manners remain constant. Above all, manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. Being considerate, respectful, and honest is more important than knowing which fork to use. Whether it’s a handshake or a fist bump, it’s the underlying sincerity and good intentions of the action that matter most.

• Language: English
• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Release date: Nov 15, 2011
• ISBN: 9780062101273

Peggy Post

Peggy Post, Emily Post’s great-granddaughter-in-law, is a director of The Emily Post Institute and the author of more than a dozen books. Peggy writes a monthly column in Good Housekeeping and an online wedding etiquette column for the New York Times.

Reviews for Emily Post's Etiquette, 18

[snowcatmacdobhran · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

St Martin's Handbook and Emily Post are the only two books I allow to remain my office. I need all the help I can get.

[smartdogs_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Not the dinosaur you'd think, Peggy Post’s “Emily Post’s Etiquette“, specifically the introduction - A Note to Readers and Part One - Everyday Etiquette are a must read. No - I’m really not suggesting you need to read and follow 847 pages of detailed advice on manners, but in a time where an ‘everything goes’ attitude combined with the stultification of political correctness has led us to a point where what we say and do is governed more by an intolerance for ideological diversity than by kindness and common sense - the book provides a roadmap back to civility. From the introduction:"Etiquette must be active. It isn’t enough to now what to do. Courtesy matters only when it is translated into everyday behavior - not just put on for show when it’s convenient. The rewards of an active commitment to everyday courtesy are myriad, though not often tangible. There are also important personal rewards that some peopel may not even be aware of, including the self-confidence that comes from knowing what to do in new or difficult situations; a positive reputation with others; and personal relationships that are more congenial, even in times of stress, because the people involved treat one another with respect.”

[kaelirenee · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I bought this when I became an Army wife to make sure I always dressed appropriately and addressed everyone correctly. This is the kind of book you just have to have on your bookshelf somewhere, because there will always be a situation where you should reference this kind of book.

[alsatia_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This book is a very good all around etiquette reference. Not my favorite for correspondence etiquette. Look to the Crane Blue Books for the general correspondence and wedding correspondence details. For any other etiquette question, Emily Post is the source I prefer to use.