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The Xenophobe's Guide
Xenophobe's Guide to the Americans
Highlights the unique character and behavior of the nation. Frank, irreverent, funny--almost guaranteed to cure Xenophobia.
64 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1994
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 3, 2016
Americans! They're all the same, aren't they? Overweight, ignorant and self-important... that goes without saying. But the worst thing about them is the racial stereotyping. Ask an American what Mexicans are like, and they'll immediately reply that they're rapists and murderers. Ask them about Muslims, and they'll say they're fanatical terrorists who think all women should be sex slaves. And then they'll start telling you that Donald Trump is right, he's the only person who can fix the problem.
Yes, that's how Americans are, each and every one of them. Doesn't it make you sick?
Yes, that's how Americans are, each and every one of them. Doesn't it make you sick?
November 6, 2017
2,5 STERNE
Scheinbar ziemlich schwierig, ein so großes Land über einen Klischeekamm zu scheren 🙈
Scheinbar ziemlich schwierig, ein so großes Land über einen Klischeekamm zu scheren 🙈
April 22, 2014
Xenophobe's Guide To The Americans Stephanie Faulk
2.5 ish stars...
This was recommended to me on my hunt for the X... I was told it was funny. I didn't think it was as funny as it could have been. But for those of you attempting the Title alphabet there are a whole bunch of these.
It wasn't as funny as I thought it would be. I am a big fan of America. I have had some amazing times there and would happily sell a kidney or marry a weirdo for a green card...I have read articles in this vein, about both England and The States and laughed my backside off while reading. I was expecting the same sort of thing from this book, but this was a bit too cautions perhaps? I don't think this author got off the fence enough, possibly because if you're going to write this kind of thing, holding back is not the way to go and maybe it needs to be written by a stranger in a strange land...
I'm aware of the differences and I'm not above joking about the stereotypes with my friendly Americans ( or French /Africa/ German/ Finnish / Italians) about the foibles and differences between the nations, much as they are not above mocking us Brits. But this book just came across as incredibly bitchy, rather than affectionate teasing.
So - I was expecting something along the lines of that :) Instead I got a bunch of slightly spiteful personal observations...
According to this author... Americans don't 'get' banter (Some of the best banter I ever experienced was with the yanks lol). And they don't read books without pictures...And are fundamentally stupid... And obsessed with money. And have no class...And fail to understand Canada / Mexico are different countries...It started to annoy me somewhat by this point...
Unfortunately, This came across as too snidey in some of ways and that really made this lose a star, it gained half a star back however, as it did give some dummies explanations of confusing matters such as how / why Congress is elected and the purpose of the senate, or whatever way it goes round lol.
The only true LOL moment for me was the guy who sued a golf course because his own golf ball hit in the face...The most interesting thing in it was that after the whole Watergate thing Mr. Nixon became some kind of respected statesman due to his relations with China? and a Mayor who was elected while in jail...
I have no doubt there are better X books for your list. I KNOW there are better articles on this subject...
2.5 ish stars...
This was recommended to me on my hunt for the X... I was told it was funny. I didn't think it was as funny as it could have been. But for those of you attempting the Title alphabet there are a whole bunch of these.
It wasn't as funny as I thought it would be. I am a big fan of America. I have had some amazing times there and would happily sell a kidney or marry a weirdo for a green card...I have read articles in this vein, about both England and The States and laughed my backside off while reading. I was expecting the same sort of thing from this book, but this was a bit too cautions perhaps? I don't think this author got off the fence enough, possibly because if you're going to write this kind of thing, holding back is not the way to go and maybe it needs to be written by a stranger in a strange land...
I'm aware of the differences and I'm not above joking about the stereotypes with my friendly Americans ( or French /Africa/ German/ Finnish / Italians) about the foibles and differences between the nations, much as they are not above mocking us Brits. But this book just came across as incredibly bitchy, rather than affectionate teasing.
So - I was expecting something along the lines of that :) Instead I got a bunch of slightly spiteful personal observations...
According to this author... Americans don't 'get' banter (Some of the best banter I ever experienced was with the yanks lol). And they don't read books without pictures...And are fundamentally stupid... And obsessed with money. And have no class...And fail to understand Canada / Mexico are different countries...It started to annoy me somewhat by this point...
Unfortunately, This came across as too snidey in some of ways and that really made this lose a star, it gained half a star back however, as it did give some dummies explanations of confusing matters such as how / why Congress is elected and the purpose of the senate, or whatever way it goes round lol.
The only true LOL moment for me was the guy who sued a golf course because his own golf ball hit in the face...The most interesting thing in it was that after the whole Watergate thing Mr. Nixon became some kind of respected statesman due to his relations with China? and a Mayor who was elected while in jail...
I have no doubt there are better X books for your list. I KNOW there are better articles on this subject...
November 2, 2020
I heard this book was a great pick-me-up for Americans in times like ours when there’s not much to laugh about. Given it’s a British publication, I hoped to enjoy their classic wit and irony, but the author turns out to be American.
Occasionally it delivered. Usually, I found it accurate but not amusing. It begins with, “Americans are like children: noisy, curious, unable to keep a secret, not given to subtlety, and prone to misbehave. Once one accepts the American’s basically adolescent nature, the rest of their culture falls into place.” It seemed a valid baseline.
“Permanent commitments are what Americans fear the most. This is a nation whose most fundamental social relationship is the casual acquaintance,” writes the author. While I completely agree with this and feel some gratitude for the revelation, I can’t say I found it funny. More like something tragic but so pervasive it’s not recognized as idiosyncratic. Kudos to the author as such observations typically come from outsiders.
Published in 2000, this book was at times prescient. “Having God on your side in a fight is good. Having the United States is better. To an American, they’re the same thing. Once the battle is over and negotiations begin, however, Americans change from warriors to wimps. As humorist Will Rogers put it, ‘America never lost a war and never won a conference in our lives… we could single-handily lick any nation in the world. But we can’t confer with Costa Rica and come home with our shirt on.’” Written before 2003 Iraq.
“Being Number One is very important to Americans. It’s definitely not how you play the game that matters. It isn’t’ even really whether you win or lose. It’s whether you look like you win…” “The dark side of American cheerfulness is the undercurrent of insecurity and depression that drives much of the country’s commerce and nearly all of its psychiatry. Underneath their grins, Americans are deeply fearful, pessimistic and unhappy… American’s see conspiracy behind every event…” And this before Trump.
Accurate, but had I expected a sober assessment, I’d not have been disappointed.
Occasionally it delivered. Usually, I found it accurate but not amusing. It begins with, “Americans are like children: noisy, curious, unable to keep a secret, not given to subtlety, and prone to misbehave. Once one accepts the American’s basically adolescent nature, the rest of their culture falls into place.” It seemed a valid baseline.
“Permanent commitments are what Americans fear the most. This is a nation whose most fundamental social relationship is the casual acquaintance,” writes the author. While I completely agree with this and feel some gratitude for the revelation, I can’t say I found it funny. More like something tragic but so pervasive it’s not recognized as idiosyncratic. Kudos to the author as such observations typically come from outsiders.
Published in 2000, this book was at times prescient. “Having God on your side in a fight is good. Having the United States is better. To an American, they’re the same thing. Once the battle is over and negotiations begin, however, Americans change from warriors to wimps. As humorist Will Rogers put it, ‘America never lost a war and never won a conference in our lives… we could single-handily lick any nation in the world. But we can’t confer with Costa Rica and come home with our shirt on.’” Written before 2003 Iraq.
“Being Number One is very important to Americans. It’s definitely not how you play the game that matters. It isn’t’ even really whether you win or lose. It’s whether you look like you win…” “The dark side of American cheerfulness is the undercurrent of insecurity and depression that drives much of the country’s commerce and nearly all of its psychiatry. Underneath their grins, Americans are deeply fearful, pessimistic and unhappy… American’s see conspiracy behind every event…” And this before Trump.
Accurate, but had I expected a sober assessment, I’d not have been disappointed.
December 20, 2010
There may be a grain of truth in the stereotyped phrases of Xenophobe's guide, but I just read this small book with a smile on my face. Quite funny indeed. Thanks to our friends Mia, Martin and dear Sophie we got this one as a present to get ready ourself for the American life, I already feel ready :).
November 20, 2011
Hysterical. Sadly...kinda true. Nevertheless, really amusing. If you want a quick, easy, and funny read then read this.
May 24, 2012
Best book EVER! I loved this very easy toread, comical but yet very true book. Very informational and eye-opening to Americans that don't see nor understand that we do have a culture.
September 16, 2012
Funny, terrifying, and oh so true.
May 26, 2015
Faul is an astute thinker and concise writer but is too constrained by the Xenophobe's format -- aside from an inspired intro there is too little insight, too many lazy punchlines.
November 10, 2022
Foarte simplist, nici nu vreau să citesc al doilea volum.M-a plictisit până la disperare.Unicele lucruri relativ interesante și bune din"Ghidul Xenophob-ului" sunt remărcile sarcastice la adresa americanilor.Carte bună pentru un adolescent de 11 ani care de abia la acea vârstă începe să citească.
April 21, 2025
This was good for a couple of chuckles. Clearly this was written in the spirit of how the British view Americans. Nice quick read if you are looking for a title starting with "X" for your yearly alphabet challenge.
March 1, 2017
Precise and concise summary of American culture. Many of America's critics have never stepped foot into America. They should read this book first. Author Stephanie Faul obviously has.
Having lived in the United States for about 10 years, I found a lot of her statements to be true and familiar:
"Walking is un-American - unless it's for exercise."
"American shopping malls...are palaces of consumerism."
"The Americans are great believers in giving people a second chance...they are a forgiving lot."
This aptitude to forgive attitude is a byproduct of two solid centuries of Christian influence.
You can see the effect of Christianity upon Americans in another statement: "They are generous to charities, kind to animals, and concerned about the welfare of the poor; 65% of households give money to charitable organizations and around 60% of adults volunteer their time." This is a description of Christian revival and "church culture" pervading even unchurched Americans, quite uncommon in non-Christian countries.
I smiled a lot at the wit of this book. I will read other Xenophobe's Guides to compare if they are as good as the Americans.
Here is my YouTube take on American culture and election. Subscribe to stay updated as news is happening fast during Trump's Presidency!
5 Ways America Has Changed Since Donald Trump. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOL_O...
Is Donald Trump God's End Time President? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0ued...
The Idol of Liberty https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Avrsm...
Subscribe: http://www.Discover.org.au/subscribe
Having lived in the United States for about 10 years, I found a lot of her statements to be true and familiar:
"Walking is un-American - unless it's for exercise."
"American shopping malls...are palaces of consumerism."
"The Americans are great believers in giving people a second chance...they are a forgiving lot."
This aptitude to forgive attitude is a byproduct of two solid centuries of Christian influence.
You can see the effect of Christianity upon Americans in another statement: "They are generous to charities, kind to animals, and concerned about the welfare of the poor; 65% of households give money to charitable organizations and around 60% of adults volunteer their time." This is a description of Christian revival and "church culture" pervading even unchurched Americans, quite uncommon in non-Christian countries.
I smiled a lot at the wit of this book. I will read other Xenophobe's Guides to compare if they are as good as the Americans.
Here is my YouTube take on American culture and election. Subscribe to stay updated as news is happening fast during Trump's Presidency!
5 Ways America Has Changed Since Donald Trump. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOL_O...
Is Donald Trump God's End Time President? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0ued...
The Idol of Liberty https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Avrsm...
Subscribe: http://www.Discover.org.au/subscribe
June 1, 2012
Granted, this book is written for Brits, not Americans, but I didn't find it all that funny. Not because I don't like the idea of making fun of Americans, but because the topics in this book seem so overdone already. I got a few chuckles, but most of the time I found myself thinking, "really? you couldn't come up with anything better than that?" It also completely lacked any kind of conclusion, ending abruptly with a diatribe on political correctness. Although this is supposed to be the type of book that you flip through haphazardly hoping to stumble upon something amusing, I think a true introduction and conclusion would have helped it. To be honest, I'm surprised my husband recommended it. Of course, not being Belgian, I enjoyed THAT version much more.
August 14, 2016
It was great fun, I enjoyed it a lot, however, the arguments presented in this little treasure are not to be used in serious arguments.
"For many Americans, fantasising about their own potential is a full-time activity." Ah, ah!
Ok, obviously this is not a faithful depict of the american people, simply because we cannot generalize human beings, we cannot uniformize them, period. Oh, but don't we enjoy doing it!
Cliché jokes, cliché lines, cliché stereotypes.
Heck, we sure do like to make ourselves feel better by laughing off of other people, even when they're not what we'd like to believe they are, just the idea makes us feel satisfied.
It's not a nice book because it is necessarily true, for me, it's nice because it's a a soft, quick and fun read.
"For many Americans, fantasising about their own potential is a full-time activity." Ah, ah!
Ok, obviously this is not a faithful depict of the american people, simply because we cannot generalize human beings, we cannot uniformize them, period. Oh, but don't we enjoy doing it!
Cliché jokes, cliché lines, cliché stereotypes.
Heck, we sure do like to make ourselves feel better by laughing off of other people, even when they're not what we'd like to believe they are, just the idea makes us feel satisfied.
It's not a nice book because it is necessarily true, for me, it's nice because it's a a soft, quick and fun read.
October 4, 2012
Yay, my first complete book in Romanian!
I can laugh at my own country or I'd never have made it through this book. I didn't agree with everything the author said about America but in humorous nonfiction, everything is exaggerated, of course.
"Nu conteaza cat de grea, paine e mai buna in tara ta."
I can laugh at my own country or I'd never have made it through this book. I didn't agree with everything the author said about America but in humorous nonfiction, everything is exaggerated, of course.
"Nu conteaza cat de grea, paine e mai buna in tara ta."
June 3, 2008
So well done I was wondering how the author could have come to know and perceive their own culture so well. Then I was shocked to find out that the author is in fact British. Very impressive. And interesting and fun:-)
April 11, 2016
This is a very clever 86-page book that describes Americans in a nutshell. Our love of money, winning, the desire to be rich and thin when we usually are neither - all told in such a wonderfully straight forward manner it makes it all the funnier.
March 13, 2011
Humorous and at times thought provoking. It depicts us Americans fairly well, mentioning our collective good qualities but at the same time, describing some of our less desirable habits, ideas or practices.
August 14, 2014
Come ogni altra nazione, l'America è convinta di essere il Paese migliore del mondo. La differenza è che gli americani ne hanno la prova: in tutto il mondo c'è gente che fa davvero sacrifici enormi pur di venire a vivere negli Stati Uniti, anche a rischio della vita.
C'è bisogno di dire altro?
C'è bisogno di dire altro?
July 20, 2016
Superficial
Based on stereotypes mostly, not really reflecting the real America. Overall is true but without details only scratches the regional differences and totally ignores how important family is for most Americans.
Based on stereotypes mostly, not really reflecting the real America. Overall is true but without details only scratches the regional differences and totally ignores how important family is for most Americans.
March 18, 2008
Americans to the T!
November 21, 2008
We bought this book when we were in Europe. It is a guide for tourists traveling to the USA. This book was very entertaining because some of the descriptions of Americans are a bit exagerated.
January 14, 2009
Not as wittily written as the others (authors vary) but quite you few true points I can agree to (though my US friends may not)
March 13, 2011
Humorous, at times thought provoking, it does provide some interesting insights into Americans.
August 7, 2011
Mildly amusing Englishman's view of the USA.
April 30, 2012
It's all true for the stereotype American. Thank goodness those aren't the only Americans around.
December 12, 2012
Quick, entertaining read.
November 28, 2014
"lite beer is lower in calories, lower in alcohol, and (a truly awesome achievement) even lower in flavour than ordinary beer."
January 20, 2016
It is written in a disgusting way and this kind of language make me dislike the author, not the Americans. Although the author tries so hard, ew
August 24, 2016
67 pages
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews