What Would Ben Stein Do?: Applying the Wisdom of a Modern-Day Prophet to Tackle the Challenges of Work and Life Hardcover – 25 November 2011

This book is mostly Ben Stein, the older citizen, looking at how a kind and rational world would look. We expected maybe actor-Ben Stein or the economist-Ben Stein, but this very fine series of essays shows a very human, very personable individual-Ben Stein looking at himself, and at other people. "Gratitude" indeed would be the thread running through most of this very readable book. He hits the command key of thankfulness - for accomplishments, for the people in our lives, for the things we have and have done for us, and for the country in which Americans are fortunately born.Stein's wide-ranging - and satisfying - preachings about the importance of self-respect in personal appearance and conduct infuse the text. See, for example, how too many people look and act in airports. See, especially, his analysis of the really successful marriage.Ben Stein, the economist, on the other hand, comes across strangely. His adamant postions on fiscal policy (taxes) and monetary policy (big money) do not sound like one would think. The small problem here is that he doesn't support these positions. Perhaps we should be thankful that we do NOT hear an endless, supported position from an economist. ("On the other hand")!One might say that the very most interesting part about this book comes from Ben Stein telling of his less-than-straight earlier adulthood. Ben Stein the straight-lace, Ben Stein the monotone-speaker apparently was not always so. Who would have guessed! Nevertheless, through the book, we still find ourselves thinking, "Bueller ... Bueller ... Bueller...?"

This is one of the best books I have read as applies to the problems that exist in our family. My 46 year old daughter and 3 boys (6,13,and 15) live with us as her job was outsourced to India by IBM. The father is out of state "looking" for a job he has never had that will make him rich. He refuses to take a mundane job! The book is a must read for people like him. (He refuses to read it) The "Get a Job" part is so so true and so "right on!" This should be mandatory reading for any family. The boys won't read it so we read it to them. Thank you Ben Stein:)This is a book that needs to be "Chewed and digested" Read it again!

After reading Ben's book I immediately ordered six for my grandkids. The advice is basic, clear and to the point. Especially on picking a mate. Recommend highly.