Although some of the advice is dated, many of the book’s principles are just as relevant today as in 1936. For many, singleness is a choice, for others it’s not. Whatever the case, singles can live successfully, enjoyably, even triumphantly - but they need a plan. Hillis says, "The beginning is your attitude... You have got to decide what kind of a life you want and then make it for yourself." No pity parties indulged here! 

Hillis tells us - in her irreverent and catty way - how to handle those awkward "extra woman" social situations, the importance of having "a smattering of knowledge about practically everything," and indulging oneself in "pampering that pays." By means of short, anecdotal case studies of single women, she teaches what to do, and what not to do. Hillis provides do’s and don’ts regarding wardrobe and makeup, decorating your home or apartment, party hosting and social etiquette, mixing the proper Manhattan, and coping with those nasty topics of budgeting and saving money.  

Written with a decidedly snobbish tone, this pertinent little book is so cleverly and entertainingly crafted that we simply cannot be offended by Hillis’s put-on patronizing. Instead, we hope that should we ever find ourselves single, that we live as fully engaged in life as Hillis insists we must.