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Sensitivity 101...The Search for Acceptance
Nana always said. “If you want people to remember you, you have to be a little different, you must always be sincere, and finally you have got to make them all feel special, especially the girls.” I’m sure she didn’t mean it the way that I took it.
The journey we are on is a difficult one, even more so for those of a broken family. Follow the adventures of one such boy as he searches for the two desires we all have in common: to be accepted by others and to be truly happy.
Find out what happens when sensitivity and sex collide!
“Straightforward and refreshingly candid, this book is an impressive presentation of a life with a plethora of helpful lessons to share. Highly recommended for anyone seeking to cut through the typical facade of relationship "politics" and learn the roots of true, lasting happiness.” APEX Reviews
“Much more effective in understanding relationships than Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus…” Kenneth Weene, PhD. Author of Widow’s Walk and Memoirs from the Asylum
“Sensitivity 101 grows into a very mature voice, sharing some very mature perspectives, ones that any parent or anyone working with children would be well served to read. One of the most soothing reads I’ve ever read.” OEBooks Book Blogs
“This book is about understanding and self-worth.” J.L. Knox, author Musical Chairs
The journey we are on is a difficult one, even more so for those of a broken family. Follow the adventures of one such boy as he searches for the two desires we all have in common: to be accepted by others and to be truly happy.
Find out what happens when sensitivity and sex collide!
“Straightforward and refreshingly candid, this book is an impressive presentation of a life with a plethora of helpful lessons to share. Highly recommended for anyone seeking to cut through the typical facade of relationship "politics" and learn the roots of true, lasting happiness.” APEX Reviews
“Much more effective in understanding relationships than Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus…” Kenneth Weene, PhD. Author of Widow’s Walk and Memoirs from the Asylum
“Sensitivity 101 grows into a very mature voice, sharing some very mature perspectives, ones that any parent or anyone working with children would be well served to read. One of the most soothing reads I’ve ever read.” OEBooks Book Blogs
“This book is about understanding and self-worth.” J.L. Knox, author Musical Chairs
- GenresNonfiction
228 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
About the author
Philip Nork
13 books37 followersPhilip Nork was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, IL.
After the divorce of his parents and his journey to find the acceptance and happiness he thought he had lost due to it, he was able to use the experiences and life lessons, which were given to him by the special females who he met, to form the basis of his realistic fiction books.
All 10 of his books have this common theme: You never know when a person will enter your life and broaden your horizons forever.
Philip lives in Henderson, NV with his family and you can go to www.PhilipNork.com to see more information about him and his writings.
After the divorce of his parents and his journey to find the acceptance and happiness he thought he had lost due to it, he was able to use the experiences and life lessons, which were given to him by the special females who he met, to form the basis of his realistic fiction books.
All 10 of his books have this common theme: You never know when a person will enter your life and broaden your horizons forever.
Philip lives in Henderson, NV with his family and you can go to www.PhilipNork.com to see more information about him and his writings.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 16, 2010
I don't know what other than to say than I was totally taken by surprise with Philip Nork's, "Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male." I don't know exactly what I was expecting, but I didn't expect to find myself completely relating to Philip's sense of struggle with personal identity, insecurity, and loneliness. His retelling of his encounters with various women who taught him valuable lessons throughout his life can only be described as deeply personal and warmly sentimental. I found myself quickly flipping through the pages of the book to see what lesson or experience Philip would encounter next. One only hopes that most men would have his outlook and approach to life and relating to women. If I ever have a son I would definitely want him to read this book. It not only contains Philip's point of view, but includes actual snippets from the various women who impacted his life, and how their relationship impacted theirs. This was a very enjoyable book, and I took from it Philip's bits of wisdom he picked up along the way. This book can be read by men and women alike. There are some true gems of insight to be garnered from this book. I highly recommend it!
November 28, 2009
Sensitivity 101 for the
Heterosexual Male
By Philip Nork
AuthorHouse
ISBN: 9781438967448
228 Pages
This is one of those books where, in my opinion, the title does not adequately portray the content. Primary reason: Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male by Philip Nork is not just for males, or even for just heterosexual individuals. This book can be enjoyed by anyone who has an interest in understanding his or her sexual partner.
The book is really a coming of age story about a boy. It is the personal story of Philip Nork, as he saw his life. A sensitive young man who found pleasure in understanding the feelings of others and working to fully respond to their needs and wishes.
And wound up, for a time, becoming a gigolo...
When a young boy has strong women in their young lives, especially if the father has deserted the family, it is quite easy to see his mother as a “hero,” a woman to be admired. But it is also possible, by “becoming the man” of the family at the age of eight, there are thoughts that arise, perhaps never discussed. Certainly a young boy may come to think that it is his fault that a divorce occurs.
Philip’s grandmother also made sure religion was part of their lives and Sundays were spent learning about what God “wanted us to do, how he wanted us to behave, and what was right or wrong.” Of course, as a young boy, Philip was quick to realize that as a priest, he would never marry, never have sex, and never have kids. Sadly, later, that same priest was removed from the church for various offenses. Philip saw this as another man failing his role in his life.
Philip fortunately connected with his great-grandmother, calling her Nana and she was perhaps the first person he was really able to talk to. She discussed religion with him and told him that treating people with respect was best. She was the first person who explained that he should try to be sincere and made people feel special, especially the girls.
And when he met his first girl friend, Jenna, he began to confirm the points that would define Philip as a man, so much so that he started to create a list! In addition to the first one learned from Nana, he was able to add that he now knew that girls remember and cherish small things.
As is often the case, as Philip was meeting females in his life, an older girl first seduced him. Interestingly, throughout his childhood and teen life, it was his sensitivity and caring nature that drew girls to him and when sex became involved, it was those lessons that he learned along the way that created the man he became. Indeed, he was only in his late teens when he was suggested to and accepted by a female pimp to serve women who were much older, one of whom turned out to be a friend of his own mother!
No, this book does not advocate an early sexual life for men. It is just a true story that just might be the story that other boys have lived or will live in the future. The list is not have to find girls...the list is one that will help anybody to relate to other people. In a world where sexuality is so blatant, this book allows a boy, a teen, to learn both mistakes and how to make right choices as decisions about how they will share with girls are made.
If I had a son, I would want him to read Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male by Philip Nork, albeit with a little female guidance of my own! Appreciation to the author must be given for his willingness to share this intimate, very personal story...
G. A. Bixler
Heterosexual Male
By Philip Nork
AuthorHouse
ISBN: 9781438967448
228 Pages
This is one of those books where, in my opinion, the title does not adequately portray the content. Primary reason: Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male by Philip Nork is not just for males, or even for just heterosexual individuals. This book can be enjoyed by anyone who has an interest in understanding his or her sexual partner.
The book is really a coming of age story about a boy. It is the personal story of Philip Nork, as he saw his life. A sensitive young man who found pleasure in understanding the feelings of others and working to fully respond to their needs and wishes.
And wound up, for a time, becoming a gigolo...
When a young boy has strong women in their young lives, especially if the father has deserted the family, it is quite easy to see his mother as a “hero,” a woman to be admired. But it is also possible, by “becoming the man” of the family at the age of eight, there are thoughts that arise, perhaps never discussed. Certainly a young boy may come to think that it is his fault that a divorce occurs.
Philip’s grandmother also made sure religion was part of their lives and Sundays were spent learning about what God “wanted us to do, how he wanted us to behave, and what was right or wrong.” Of course, as a young boy, Philip was quick to realize that as a priest, he would never marry, never have sex, and never have kids. Sadly, later, that same priest was removed from the church for various offenses. Philip saw this as another man failing his role in his life.
Philip fortunately connected with his great-grandmother, calling her Nana and she was perhaps the first person he was really able to talk to. She discussed religion with him and told him that treating people with respect was best. She was the first person who explained that he should try to be sincere and made people feel special, especially the girls.
And when he met his first girl friend, Jenna, he began to confirm the points that would define Philip as a man, so much so that he started to create a list! In addition to the first one learned from Nana, he was able to add that he now knew that girls remember and cherish small things.
As is often the case, as Philip was meeting females in his life, an older girl first seduced him. Interestingly, throughout his childhood and teen life, it was his sensitivity and caring nature that drew girls to him and when sex became involved, it was those lessons that he learned along the way that created the man he became. Indeed, he was only in his late teens when he was suggested to and accepted by a female pimp to serve women who were much older, one of whom turned out to be a friend of his own mother!
No, this book does not advocate an early sexual life for men. It is just a true story that just might be the story that other boys have lived or will live in the future. The list is not have to find girls...the list is one that will help anybody to relate to other people. In a world where sexuality is so blatant, this book allows a boy, a teen, to learn both mistakes and how to make right choices as decisions about how they will share with girls are made.
If I had a son, I would want him to read Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male by Philip Nork, albeit with a little female guidance of my own! Appreciation to the author must be given for his willingness to share this intimate, very personal story...
G. A. Bixler
July 5, 2010
I do not know if Philip Nork, author of Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male (AuthorHouse 2010) has ever read or studied the great psychologist Erik Erikson, but he has written a terrific case study for Eriksonian discussion. Indeed, if I were still teaching developmental or adolescent psychology, I would make this book required reading. With great honesty and openness, Nork has explored his own adolescent development, the internal battles he experienced while developing a sense of identity, and the final integration he achieved, an integration that makes him a uniquely sensitive and caring human being.
What makes this memoir particularly powerful is that Nork skips all the rationalizations, displacements, and sublimations that distort other autobiographical efforts. Sensitivity 101 is unabashedly about sex. he author willingly shares with us his various relationships with women and what he has learned along the way. While he cannot give the reader clear instruction in sexual technique (although he is certainly informative), he does give great information about how to be a better lover. If I were to distill his lessons into one sentence it would be: “Listen to and understand the wants and feelings of women.”
I am sure there are any number of women who would want their husbands or boyfriends to read this book. Of course, not that many men read, but it would still be a good gift. Personally I think it would be much more effective than Men are from Mars … or Bridges of Madison County. Unfortunately there are fewer mothers who will want to give this memoir to their sons, but I would certainly encourage them to do so, especially if they are ready have open and meaningful conversations with those teens.
Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male (AuthorHouse 2010) by Philip Nork is a highly recommend from this reviewer. (Kenneth Weene,PhD, author of Widow’s Walk and Memoirs From the Asylum http://www.authorkenweene.com )
What makes this memoir particularly powerful is that Nork skips all the rationalizations, displacements, and sublimations that distort other autobiographical efforts. Sensitivity 101 is unabashedly about sex. he author willingly shares with us his various relationships with women and what he has learned along the way. While he cannot give the reader clear instruction in sexual technique (although he is certainly informative), he does give great information about how to be a better lover. If I were to distill his lessons into one sentence it would be: “Listen to and understand the wants and feelings of women.”
I am sure there are any number of women who would want their husbands or boyfriends to read this book. Of course, not that many men read, but it would still be a good gift. Personally I think it would be much more effective than Men are from Mars … or Bridges of Madison County. Unfortunately there are fewer mothers who will want to give this memoir to their sons, but I would certainly encourage them to do so, especially if they are ready have open and meaningful conversations with those teens.
Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male (AuthorHouse 2010) by Philip Nork is a highly recommend from this reviewer. (Kenneth Weene,PhD, author of Widow’s Walk and Memoirs From the Asylum http://www.authorkenweene.com )
April 30, 2010
This book is a memoir/journal written in fictional form in order to protect those who wish to stay hidden. Phil doesn’t use pretty words or flowery language but instead speaks honestly and from the heart. He starts out his story at the time he was a young boy, abandoned by his father. We follow him through the years as he strives to become the man he wants to be. Sometimes he falls short. Other times he soars.
Don’t let the title deter you. This book isn’t only for men and it isn’t only for heterosexuals. It’s a wonderful coming of age story that has a little something for everyone.
Don’t let the title deter you. This book isn’t only for men and it isn’t only for heterosexuals. It’s a wonderful coming of age story that has a little something for everyone.
August 9, 2010
As the author of MommyBest: 13 Inspirational Lessons Derek & Dylan’s Mom (and maybe yours) Never Learned in School, I often describe how the people in my life left indelible imprints on my mind and helped shape me as a woman and as a mother. As soon as I started to read 101 Sensitivity for the Heterosexual Male, I was immediately reminded of the enormous impact individuals we are closest to during our early years have on our lives. In Philip’s case, his “Nana” is his earliest and greatest life teacher. She often shares her perspective with advice such as, “Treating people with the respect they deserve is the best way to get into Heaven.” Nana is the voice of wisdom and reason and one that Philip played over in his mind during many of the life experiences he encountered. Nana’s home, her cooking and even her “fragrance” made him at ease. Most vivid are the words she shares during the many conversations they have. “Nana” tells Philip to look for the “sparkle” in a girl’s eye to know if she’s interested and to remember that girls “remember the small things.” This is so true: I recall receiving my first 10-speed bicycle from my college boyfriend. What excited me most wasn’t the bicycle, but rather the license plate he attached to the back of the bike; it had my name written on it! My boyfriend giggled, “I knew you would like that the best.”
In contrast, Philip’s home life was amuck with his parent’s separation and ultimate divorce. Among his peers at school he felt very uneasy, especially during social interactions. Puberty in particular is a challenging time for all of us and Philip was no exception as he struggled in his encounters with girls. Like Philip, our family moved to a new place while I was in sixth grade, which can be a very traumatic time for children. Before coming into his own, Philip was shorter than most boys his age, shy and only somewhat into sports. As he navigates through his teenage years, he meets many young women who teach him the lessons he shares in 101…which take him on many “side trips” in life while helping him develop into a more confident young man. He grows much taller and becomes an avid soccer player while learning ways of caring for the girls he meets. These varied encounters instruct him how to please women and become the “sensitive” guy they need. Yet throughout Phil’s journey, especially as he plays the role of “Disco Phil,” notoriously known at the roller rink, he’s often trying to satisfy all the ladies’ needs instead of his own. His journey leads him to ultimately question his path in life—a place where all humans one day find themselves.
I think Sensitivity 101 …is an insightful read for young men and women in understanding that each of us has a journey and lessons to learn, especially when those of us feel very “different” whether it be because of parent’s divorcing, or another cultural or socioeconomic reason. In my instance, I am an identical twin—so my sister and I often felt as if we “stood out in the crowd.” Adolescence is a time when peer acceptance means so much more than anything else in our world. A major strength of 101… is Nork’s vivid character descriptions. The reader feels as if she knows many of these women Nork writes about and wants to jump into the text to help them discover their true self worth. Philip shares his journey of highs and lows –while weaving life lessons into the text, some sexually descript, that he uncovers. Both men and women will relate to this book and relive some of their youthful years by reflecting upon their own journey into manhood/womanhood!
As Philip shares in his Preface, “No two lives can be the same, nor are any two journeys.” Nor, I’ll add, are any two reactions to an author’s text. I immediately became endeared to Philip’s nana and words of wisdom because I too shared many conversations with my nana while I was growing up. She was a very opinionated and charismatic woman who cooked huge pots of pasta and “gravy” every Sunday for her family to devour. We were instructed to call her “Nana” to differentiate her from our other “grandma.” She was very dramatic and those who met her often talked about how humorous and insightful she was.
Philip’s nana and his experiences remind us that we all need people and places where we can go to simply be ourselves—regardless of what we may pretend to be to the outside world.
In contrast, Philip’s home life was amuck with his parent’s separation and ultimate divorce. Among his peers at school he felt very uneasy, especially during social interactions. Puberty in particular is a challenging time for all of us and Philip was no exception as he struggled in his encounters with girls. Like Philip, our family moved to a new place while I was in sixth grade, which can be a very traumatic time for children. Before coming into his own, Philip was shorter than most boys his age, shy and only somewhat into sports. As he navigates through his teenage years, he meets many young women who teach him the lessons he shares in 101…which take him on many “side trips” in life while helping him develop into a more confident young man. He grows much taller and becomes an avid soccer player while learning ways of caring for the girls he meets. These varied encounters instruct him how to please women and become the “sensitive” guy they need. Yet throughout Phil’s journey, especially as he plays the role of “Disco Phil,” notoriously known at the roller rink, he’s often trying to satisfy all the ladies’ needs instead of his own. His journey leads him to ultimately question his path in life—a place where all humans one day find themselves.
I think Sensitivity 101 …is an insightful read for young men and women in understanding that each of us has a journey and lessons to learn, especially when those of us feel very “different” whether it be because of parent’s divorcing, or another cultural or socioeconomic reason. In my instance, I am an identical twin—so my sister and I often felt as if we “stood out in the crowd.” Adolescence is a time when peer acceptance means so much more than anything else in our world. A major strength of 101… is Nork’s vivid character descriptions. The reader feels as if she knows many of these women Nork writes about and wants to jump into the text to help them discover their true self worth. Philip shares his journey of highs and lows –while weaving life lessons into the text, some sexually descript, that he uncovers. Both men and women will relate to this book and relive some of their youthful years by reflecting upon their own journey into manhood/womanhood!
As Philip shares in his Preface, “No two lives can be the same, nor are any two journeys.” Nor, I’ll add, are any two reactions to an author’s text. I immediately became endeared to Philip’s nana and words of wisdom because I too shared many conversations with my nana while I was growing up. She was a very opinionated and charismatic woman who cooked huge pots of pasta and “gravy” every Sunday for her family to devour. We were instructed to call her “Nana” to differentiate her from our other “grandma.” She was very dramatic and those who met her often talked about how humorous and insightful she was.
Philip’s nana and his experiences remind us that we all need people and places where we can go to simply be ourselves—regardless of what we may pretend to be to the outside world.
April 13, 2010
There are some very sweet moments in Philip Nork's autobiography Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male! Then, there are some very callous moments just as equally potent. Does Phil truly learn to be sensitive?
After his parents' divorce, eight-year-old Phil becomes the man of the house. It is the beginning of a stressful, misguided and confusing childhood. With other children to raise and a family to support as a single parent, Phil's mother has much to worry about. Phil feels like he lost, not one, but two parents in the divorce. He is suddenly all alone, isolated in a way few people should ever feel with no idea of how to return to an emotionally stable, peaceful life.
Angry at the world in general, angry at his dad specifically, Phil begins a personal mission to make sure that he never becomes "a typical man." He decides he is going to be the kind of man that women can count on no matter what.
As Phil searches for love and happiness through many different women page after page of the book, he shares the lessons he learns along the way. Mistakes are made. Hearts are broken. Phil tries and conquers many different ambitions and fails many more throughout his educational career, never quite finding himself through any of his ventures.
This book was not what I expected. I really wanted the conclusion to leave me feeling inspired, but it didn't quite happen. Young Phil was so lost in this book that I really wanted him to find true love at the end, particularly self-love. I wanted him to find his calling in life. I wanted him to feel confidant, empowered and ready to take on the world as a man by the end of the book. But, alas, I think Phil still had some growing to do. He was only eighteen by the end, and honestly, reality never quite accomplishes the happily-ever-after we all look for, does it?
I do think Phil learned a great deal from beginning to end here. I would recommend this book to the young men out there. There are some definite lessons to grow on.
After his parents' divorce, eight-year-old Phil becomes the man of the house. It is the beginning of a stressful, misguided and confusing childhood. With other children to raise and a family to support as a single parent, Phil's mother has much to worry about. Phil feels like he lost, not one, but two parents in the divorce. He is suddenly all alone, isolated in a way few people should ever feel with no idea of how to return to an emotionally stable, peaceful life.
Angry at the world in general, angry at his dad specifically, Phil begins a personal mission to make sure that he never becomes "a typical man." He decides he is going to be the kind of man that women can count on no matter what.
As Phil searches for love and happiness through many different women page after page of the book, he shares the lessons he learns along the way. Mistakes are made. Hearts are broken. Phil tries and conquers many different ambitions and fails many more throughout his educational career, never quite finding himself through any of his ventures.
This book was not what I expected. I really wanted the conclusion to leave me feeling inspired, but it didn't quite happen. Young Phil was so lost in this book that I really wanted him to find true love at the end, particularly self-love. I wanted him to find his calling in life. I wanted him to feel confidant, empowered and ready to take on the world as a man by the end of the book. But, alas, I think Phil still had some growing to do. He was only eighteen by the end, and honestly, reality never quite accomplishes the happily-ever-after we all look for, does it?
I do think Phil learned a great deal from beginning to end here. I would recommend this book to the young men out there. There are some definite lessons to grow on.
September 12, 2010
One of the most important lessons that I learned in life was not to judge a book by it's cover. The cover of "Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male" is a beautiful cover, but the title made me a little hesitant to read the book.
As I read it, I found myself interested in the story and the lessons that were being taught at the end of each chapter. Even as I came to realize that I was enjoying the pace of the book and the storyline, I soon realized that Philip's book was not predictable at all. I found myself reading the book from start to finish and having to pace myself to get a full understanding of the messages that I was reading.
This book is very easy to read, enjoyable, and full of life's lesson that we sometimes take for granted. I started looking from a point of view that I would like for others to see when they have any type of relationship with me. I guess I could say that I have some of the macho characteristics that Philip described in "Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male" and by reading about the feelings that women have or how they think in certain situations, I began to see mistakes that I have made in my own life and how to avoid these mistakes in the future.
This was a very good book. I personally recommend that men, women, and teens to read this story to see things from his perspectives that they might be using and look at these situations so that they might see things.
Dream 4 More Reviews,
Emmanuel Brown
*This is the opinion of the reviewer and does not reflect to the views of Dream 4 More Firm. We received a book from the author and mailed to the reviewer for a book review.
As I read it, I found myself interested in the story and the lessons that were being taught at the end of each chapter. Even as I came to realize that I was enjoying the pace of the book and the storyline, I soon realized that Philip's book was not predictable at all. I found myself reading the book from start to finish and having to pace myself to get a full understanding of the messages that I was reading.
This book is very easy to read, enjoyable, and full of life's lesson that we sometimes take for granted. I started looking from a point of view that I would like for others to see when they have any type of relationship with me. I guess I could say that I have some of the macho characteristics that Philip described in "Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male" and by reading about the feelings that women have or how they think in certain situations, I began to see mistakes that I have made in my own life and how to avoid these mistakes in the future.
This was a very good book. I personally recommend that men, women, and teens to read this story to see things from his perspectives that they might be using and look at these situations so that they might see things.
Dream 4 More Reviews,
Emmanuel Brown
*This is the opinion of the reviewer and does not reflect to the views of Dream 4 More Firm. We received a book from the author and mailed to the reviewer for a book review.
August 8, 2010
This novel is not only unique but fascinating as well. It is well-written and is a real credit to its author, Philip Nork, especially since it is his first novel.
When I read the Preface, I didn't really realize what I was getting into until I read the Disclaimer. It is apparently an auto-biography of the young life of the author, written in a truly unparalleled and interesting style.
Nork tells us about his early and adolescent years with stories of his encounters with a number of women and girls, starting in grade school and ending with his senior year in high school. He uses these stories to explain the changes in his personality and perspectives of life and the alterations he made in those things over the years. He shows throughtout how his sincere desire to meet the needs of those females affected his personality and views of life.
I expected from the Preface that the book would be interesting, but might be somwhat dull and one that I would have to plod through. But I found as I read the stories of the women and girls, the variety and movement of the novel in each scene made reading it flow right along wonderfully. Rather than dull, it was exciting and even racy at times.
I will say no more, as I don't want to spoil the book for its readers, as I highly recommend the novel to anyone, no matter what your taste in reading is. This one is hand to put down.
When I read the Preface, I didn't really realize what I was getting into until I read the Disclaimer. It is apparently an auto-biography of the young life of the author, written in a truly unparalleled and interesting style.
Nork tells us about his early and adolescent years with stories of his encounters with a number of women and girls, starting in grade school and ending with his senior year in high school. He uses these stories to explain the changes in his personality and perspectives of life and the alterations he made in those things over the years. He shows throughtout how his sincere desire to meet the needs of those females affected his personality and views of life.
I expected from the Preface that the book would be interesting, but might be somwhat dull and one that I would have to plod through. But I found as I read the stories of the women and girls, the variety and movement of the novel in each scene made reading it flow right along wonderfully. Rather than dull, it was exciting and even racy at times.
I will say no more, as I don't want to spoil the book for its readers, as I highly recommend the novel to anyone, no matter what your taste in reading is. This one is hand to put down.
October 17, 2011
Sensitivity 101 *For the Heterosexual Male* is a refreshingly honest look at a young man coming through puberty by way of lessons he takes from women, the most fundamental coming from his grandmother. As I was reading I had to keep reminding myself, this is a seventeen-year-old child speaking... sharing some very mature perspectives that many people two, three, and even four times his age still struggle with.
It was amazing how soothing a read Sensitivity 101 was. Phil's sexual encounters, too numerous to keep count of, gradually moved me into this relaxed calm following his questions... and then assessments about his experiences. Explained in another way, I happen to align sex with food. Too much of either is not good, just as both are necessary nutrients to sustain life. I don't always have to love what I eat, but of course it's better when I do. The only difference between the two is there hasn't yet been a taboo written about eating food that stigmatizes people into feeling ashamed or guilty or dirty to the point that they go into hiding to eat!
A very beautiful and honest and mature read.
It was amazing how soothing a read Sensitivity 101 was. Phil's sexual encounters, too numerous to keep count of, gradually moved me into this relaxed calm following his questions... and then assessments about his experiences. Explained in another way, I happen to align sex with food. Too much of either is not good, just as both are necessary nutrients to sustain life. I don't always have to love what I eat, but of course it's better when I do. The only difference between the two is there hasn't yet been a taboo written about eating food that stigmatizes people into feeling ashamed or guilty or dirty to the point that they go into hiding to eat!
A very beautiful and honest and mature read.
February 28, 2010
BOOK GIVEAWAY! "Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male" by Philip Nork http://bookywooks.blogspot.com/2010/0...
Review Snippit;
In my opinion, Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male is a self-help book for people who don't like self-help books. It gives the reader an insight into women, relationships and how to love yourself without the preaching tone of a self-help manual.
Full Review;
http://bookywooks.blogspot.com/2010/0...
Review Snippit;
In my opinion, Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male is a self-help book for people who don't like self-help books. It gives the reader an insight into women, relationships and how to love yourself without the preaching tone of a self-help manual.
Full Review;
http://bookywooks.blogspot.com/2010/0...
September 8, 2010
Sadly, the men who need it most will be the least likely to read it. Hand them a copy anyway!
Here's my complete review:
http://blogcritics.org/books/article/...
Here's my complete review:
http://blogcritics.org/books/article/...
January 4, 2011
I must start this by saying that this book had two major strikes against it from the start but they had nothing to do with the content. I dislike memoirs and I really dislike short stories. Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male is both, so reading this book was really a chore for me. But since this book couldn't possibly have been aimed at a demographic farther from me, that really doesn't matter.
Each story was really quite tender, and the lessens learned were really quite good. As I struggled with keeping each tale separate (and failed miserably), I kept cringing at the repetition. As a fiction writer, I tried very hard to teach myself as many of the tricks of the trade as I could find. Repetition is something to be avoided but I understand that sometimes it can't be. However, repetition by exact words has become painful for me to read. Yes, commonly a character will have a certain speech mannerism, but when different characters say exactly the same thing, I cringe.
Another thing a fiction writer tries hard to achieve is a character arch, and this too I kept looking for but didn't find. Yes, new lessons were learned and thereafter used. Time passed and places and wardrobe changed to fit new parts played by the main character, in this case Philip himself. Sadly I did not find a character arc. Despite all the changes, all the new lessons, all the different influences that came and went, the character didn't change.
I know, I'm putting fiction rules to memoir writing, and maybe I shouldn't, but I can only tell you my thoughts and try to explain why. If you like memoirs, this is a fine book. It is obviously written with care. And if you like short stories, this is the book for you. Each story is very sweet. The boy Philip tells of his struggles to cope with the adversity in his life with apparently little help from the adults in his life. I think, he did really quite well for himself.
Would I recommend this book? *Sigh* sadly I can't think of anyone I know who would like it. But, like I said before if you like short stories and / or if you like memoirs, you will love this book.
Each story was really quite tender, and the lessens learned were really quite good. As I struggled with keeping each tale separate (and failed miserably), I kept cringing at the repetition. As a fiction writer, I tried very hard to teach myself as many of the tricks of the trade as I could find. Repetition is something to be avoided but I understand that sometimes it can't be. However, repetition by exact words has become painful for me to read. Yes, commonly a character will have a certain speech mannerism, but when different characters say exactly the same thing, I cringe.
Another thing a fiction writer tries hard to achieve is a character arch, and this too I kept looking for but didn't find. Yes, new lessons were learned and thereafter used. Time passed and places and wardrobe changed to fit new parts played by the main character, in this case Philip himself. Sadly I did not find a character arc. Despite all the changes, all the new lessons, all the different influences that came and went, the character didn't change.
I know, I'm putting fiction rules to memoir writing, and maybe I shouldn't, but I can only tell you my thoughts and try to explain why. If you like memoirs, this is a fine book. It is obviously written with care. And if you like short stories, this is the book for you. Each story is very sweet. The boy Philip tells of his struggles to cope with the adversity in his life with apparently little help from the adults in his life. I think, he did really quite well for himself.
Would I recommend this book? *Sigh* sadly I can't think of anyone I know who would like it. But, like I said before if you like short stories and / or if you like memoirs, you will love this book.
November 10, 2010
Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male
By Philip Nork
Author House
2010
Reviewed by Angie Mangino
Rating: 3 stars
In these lessons learned from the “fairer sex,” Nork shares his personal experiences with women and what he feels are lessons for all men.
In this book of 36 chapters, each except the last named for women in the author’s life, each chapter shares his personal journey growing up. Some chapters are poignant and life affirming for communication between the sexes. Others reflect a male immaturity showing relationships with women through the eyes of a man looking just for sexual gratification.
Taken overall, however, this book does open up much for thought about male/female relationships. It presents one young man’s journey growing up and his personal recollection of the events and experiences.
Through male eyes, the author seeks to understand women better. Toward the end, he finds more of that knowledge he seeks when he is better able to understand and accept himself. He realizes the search should be not just for relative pleasure, but more so to attain the happiness that is absolute by accepting who he is, and accepting each individual woman for who she is.
Angie Mangino currently works as a freelance writer and book reviewer. http://www.angiemangino.com
By Philip Nork
Author House
2010
Reviewed by Angie Mangino
Rating: 3 stars
In these lessons learned from the “fairer sex,” Nork shares his personal experiences with women and what he feels are lessons for all men.
In this book of 36 chapters, each except the last named for women in the author’s life, each chapter shares his personal journey growing up. Some chapters are poignant and life affirming for communication between the sexes. Others reflect a male immaturity showing relationships with women through the eyes of a man looking just for sexual gratification.
Taken overall, however, this book does open up much for thought about male/female relationships. It presents one young man’s journey growing up and his personal recollection of the events and experiences.
Through male eyes, the author seeks to understand women better. Toward the end, he finds more of that knowledge he seeks when he is better able to understand and accept himself. He realizes the search should be not just for relative pleasure, but more so to attain the happiness that is absolute by accepting who he is, and accepting each individual woman for who she is.
Angie Mangino currently works as a freelance writer and book reviewer. http://www.angiemangino.com
October 22, 2010
Philip Nork offers a diary into his adolescent life chronicling the lessons he learnt during his friendships and relationships through out the years. He creates a list of rules to follow regarding females and how to get them to like him.
As you read about his various experiences it’s hard to imagine him as being just a teenager at times. However it does underline how quickly adolescents begin their sexual lives and how many start for the wrong reasons.
Although as a women I have to agree with most points on his list, I find it hard to see many teenage boys wanting to be like him as he is described as being outcast and a bit of a nerd for the most part.
The book does give good advice and teaches tolerance for those who are different, be it because of sexual preference or physical appearance.
An excellent example of how children from broken families are affected by their parents divorce and the consequences it can have on their lives.
I think this book would be better for the parents to read than the children as I can’t see a teenager connecting with it, but can see it being of great aid to the parents both to help them realise how hard a break up can be on the children and to open their eyes about the sort of things their children may be experimenting with.
As you read about his various experiences it’s hard to imagine him as being just a teenager at times. However it does underline how quickly adolescents begin their sexual lives and how many start for the wrong reasons.
Although as a women I have to agree with most points on his list, I find it hard to see many teenage boys wanting to be like him as he is described as being outcast and a bit of a nerd for the most part.
The book does give good advice and teaches tolerance for those who are different, be it because of sexual preference or physical appearance.
An excellent example of how children from broken families are affected by their parents divorce and the consequences it can have on their lives.
I think this book would be better for the parents to read than the children as I can’t see a teenager connecting with it, but can see it being of great aid to the parents both to help them realise how hard a break up can be on the children and to open their eyes about the sort of things their children may be experimenting with.
May 12, 2011
Honestly I felt that this book was lacking. The idea behind it seemed like a good concept however it became very redundant at the beginning and didn't get a whole lot better as things went on. The second half of the book sounded like a glorified story of a young mans high school dream. While most of the concepts discussed in the book seemed like good ideas, the manor in which the young man went about putting his new found learnings to practice seemed like this should have been billed as a how to get laid in the 70's book rather then something that was supposed to help people learn to be more understanding of women.
It was unclear whom the target audience was, as the language was written at a very simple level, but the subject matter and references (not the sex, but the disco, roller rinks, etc) isn't relative to a younger person.
While I could see that this story had potential, and there were portions that I did enjoy, as a whole I felt that this book was merely okay, and I wouldn't recommend it to any of my friends merely because I wouldn't want to bore them
It was unclear whom the target audience was, as the language was written at a very simple level, but the subject matter and references (not the sex, but the disco, roller rinks, etc) isn't relative to a younger person.
While I could see that this story had potential, and there were portions that I did enjoy, as a whole I felt that this book was merely okay, and I wouldn't recommend it to any of my friends merely because I wouldn't want to bore them
June 2, 2010
Sensitivity 101 for the Heterosexual Male by Philip Nork is a chronicle of the author's life as well as a personal glimpse into how men in general are perceived by women.
Philip tells of his different relationships with girls and women throughout his childhood into adulthood, and how he interacted with those women with the sensitivity that he learned at a young age when he saw how hurt and damaged his parents divorce had left his mother.
In a bare all sort of way Philip has exposed his sensitive nature to the eyes of the reader in the hope that his experience will help other men realize the power that they have to make a woman feel special and loved. A fact that some who consider themselves a "mans man" might be critical of. But if only the reader would see the deeper message, the message of unity of spirit and how when you think of others and their feelings both parties benefit in the relationship.
Philip tells of his different relationships with girls and women throughout his childhood into adulthood, and how he interacted with those women with the sensitivity that he learned at a young age when he saw how hurt and damaged his parents divorce had left his mother.
In a bare all sort of way Philip has exposed his sensitive nature to the eyes of the reader in the hope that his experience will help other men realize the power that they have to make a woman feel special and loved. A fact that some who consider themselves a "mans man" might be critical of. But if only the reader would see the deeper message, the message of unity of spirit and how when you think of others and their feelings both parties benefit in the relationship.
October 21, 2010
What will get me into the pages of this book is knowing Philip Nork wrote it! I know I will have lots to say once I start.
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