Toasts and Tributes Revised and Expanded: A Gentleman's Guide to Personal Correspondence and the Noble Tradition of the Toast

by John Bridges, Bryan Curtis

Perhaps he’s been asked to say a few words at his college
roommate’s engagement party. Maybe he’s at a family cookout, toasting his
sister’s recent law school graduation. Have his parents reached a milestone
anniversary that deserves a son’s perspective? Is his professional mentor
retiring after decades as a leader in his field?  Throughout his adult life, a man encounters
those occasions that depend on his ability to distill the emotions of the
moment into a toast, a letter, or perhaps just a few words of gratitude.

John Bridges and Bryan Curtis call on their trademark wit to
illustrate the skill of meaningful expression and show how to avoid those clichés,
awkward jokes, and rambling speeches that threaten to derail the mood of any
occasion. Learn how to keep your “just a few words” as succinct as possible, which
rare occasions are suitable for an e-mail, and the proper way to give a toast everyone
will remember.

Genres: Nonfiction

160 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 7, 2005

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

John Bridges is the author of the bestselling book, HOW TO BE A GENTLEMAN, today's most popular guide to etiquette for the modern man. When it comes to handling any issue related to courtesy, common or uncommon -- whether it's how to use a shrimp fork, how to conduct yourself in a business meeting, or knowing when to turn off your cell phone -- John is "Mr. Right."

"Over the course of my life, I've been to a lot of parties," says John. "What I've learned is that it's not enough simply to get invited. What's really important is knowing how to behave yourself, so you get invited back."

A native of Slapout, Alabama, John has served as Classical Music Editor for the Nashville Tennessean, and was an award-winning columnist and editor for the Nashville Scene. He also gained a wide following as an associate editor for Nostalgia magazine and as an etiquette columnist for Traditional Home.

John served for eight years as Director of Cultural Affairs for the City of Nashville. A frequent media guest, he has been featured on the "Today" show, "CBS Sunday Morning," and the Discovery Channel. He has been profiled in the New York Times and People magazine. His advice has repeatedly been sought out by major men's magazines such as Esquire, Men's Health, and Details. John is also the co-author, along with Bryan Curtis, of eight other books in the "Gentlemanners" series, a publishing phenomenon that has now sold more than 1.25 million volumes, world-wide.

HOW TO BE A GENTLEMAN and other volumes in the "Gentlemanners" series have been translated into more than 15 foreign languages -- ranging from Spanish and Croatian to Latvian and Vietnamese.

Reviews

[Joel Ungar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is actually a hoot. Long story how I wound up getting it. Seriously, it is full of excellent suggestions on how to say things or write notes for various circumstances.

It's the what not to say that is really a hoot.

I might get some of the other books in the series.

[Michael Berges · Rating 3 out of 5]

John Bridges' "Toasts and Tributes Revised and Expanded" is a useful guide for anyone looking to refine their skills in personal correspondence and public speaking. The book offers a comprehensive collection of toasts and tributes suitable for a variety of occasions, making it a valuable resource for gentlemen aiming to uphold traditional etiquette.

The expanded edition includes more examples and practical advice, which enhances its utility. Bridges' writing style is accessible and engaging, making the book enjoyable to read. The historical context and anecdotes add an interesting layer, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the traditions behind toasting and formal correspondence.

However, the book does have its limitations. While it is thorough in covering traditional forms of communication, it can feel somewhat outdated in our modern, fast-paced world where digital communication often takes precedence. Additionally, some sections may come across as overly formal or rigid, which might not resonate with everyone.

Overall, "Toasts and Tributes Revised and Expanded" is a solid resource for those interested in mastering the art of toasting and personal correspondence. It offers valuable insights and a wealth of examples, though it may benefit from a more contemporary approach to remain fully relevant today.

[William Schram · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book Toasts and Tributes provides advice for the would-be speaker. It is very short. As such, my review will not have much to say about it. The book warns you about mistakes and things to avoid. Furthermore, the book discusses Thank You Notes as well.

I have no issues with this book. Thanks for reading my review, and see you next time.

[Spats and Hats · Rating 4 out of 5]

Instructive, humorous, and easy to read. For correspondence however, I would recommend searching for diagrams for where to write addresses etc., but for correspondence content, this book encourages politeness and concision.

[T.j. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The days of gentlemen seem to have left us. I find our current society rife of self-indulgence, or lacking chivalry ... I know the younger folks have no clue what this is ... so it is with with nostalgic sense that I decided that manliness and a sense of awe of friends and feminine mystique should be one of my main focuses in this truly screwed up world. This book is but one of those that will help a real man find his way ... at least in a world of real women ...

[Luis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really great guide.....Love the Irish toasts !!!