Rating: 
Summary: Witty, Funny, and Like, Right On!
Review: In this witty and extremely funny little book, Maggie Balistreri, has been able to step back and listen, really listen, to not only what we, as a culture, are saying, but how we say it, and bring it all home, to our attention. Balistreri not only has provided humorous examples of office-speak, relationship banter, parenting jibberish, and teen-speak, but she makes you think about what you are saying, really. Two of my favorite sections are "whatever" and "like." I had no idea there were that many different meanings attached to the word "whatever." And, "like" is my favorite pet peeve of today's English. The book is such a delightful read, I could hardly put it down, and was unable to resist reading passages to my friends, especially those whose speach patterns were found in the book. The book was so enjoyable, I could not resist a second read as well. Well worth your time and money.
Rating:
Summary: I shrieked with laughter
Review: The whole book is provocative and hilarious, but I think the "like" section is its crown jewel(she details ten uses of this beloved discourse particle). Her examples of "the undercutting 'like,'" which allows the user to apologize for knowing something, made me shriek with laughter. Here's one: "I think it's like, N-i-e-t-z, then s-c-h-e, or something. I don't know." You're one smart cookie, Maggie Balistreri!
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