Gestures: The Do's and Taboos of Body Language Around the World by Roger E. Axtell

Title: Gestures: The Do's and Taboos of Body Language Around the World

Author: Roger E. Axtell

First Published: 1991 (this edition was revised in 1998)

No. of Pages: 231

Synopsis (from B&N): "Before you raise your hand to signal the waiter, extend your thumb to hitchhike, or flash the "O.K." sign with thumb and forefinger, Stop! Think of where you are and exactly what you are trying to say - otherwise you could create an international incident. Remember when President Bush thought he was flashing the "V" for Victory sign to cheering Australians? (See inside.) Exploring the ins and outs of body language from head to toe, this newly revised and expanded edition of Roger Axtell's indispensable guide takes you all around the world of gestures-what they mean, how to use them, and when to avoid them. This latest edition includes:
* Updates about the 200 most popular gestures and signals-and dozens of new examples
* New sections covering special gestures-from American Sign Language and tai chi to flirting and kissing
* Information to guide you through gestures country by country-from Switzerland to Japan, Nigeria to the Netherlands
* Amusing anecdotes and helpful hypothetical scenarios"

Fiction or Nonfiction: Nonfiction

Comments and Critique: An interesting look at how gestures are interpreted across cultures. This would be very helpful for people planning to travel to different countries, especially given that gestures that are acceptable at home can often be considered insulting in other places. The book is a quick read and is well-written, although the author does tend to repeat himself unnecessarily. I was also somewhat confused by the inclusion of tai chi, as its general purpose is not communication. The author includes a breakdown of acceptable and rude gestures by country, so that a reader traveling to a particular country can easily look up what to do and not do. It should be noted, however, that the book only gives a very basic overview; if planning to travel, I would recommend using this book as one of several resources.

Challenges: 999 ("Dewey's Books"); Support Your Local Library; World Citizen