Table for One: The Savvy Girl's Guide to Singleness

by Camerin Courtney

A happy, successful, God pleasing life comes in a variety of packages. "And contrary to what our churches, married friends, society, and nosy Aunt Marge may tell us, that includes singleness." In this upfront book packed with girl talk and plenty of pep, Camerin Courtney reveals how she transformed from a self-conscious single girl to an Iamsinglehearmeroar woman. While she admits that she still has "singleness stinks" days, Courtney doesn't indulge in pity parties or offer readers a guide on finding Mr. Right. Table for One is, instead, an optimistic, upbeat look at the many emotions, expectations, joys, frustrations, and privileges of singleness. It shows how to dive into God's plan and purposes for this phase of life whether it lasts for four years or forever. Fun and encouraging sidebars sprinkle the text, covering everything from must see movies to a list of great things about singleness (i.e., "If we buy floral sheets, no one complains.") This savvy, girlfriend to girlfriend guide to singleness will delight and inspire single women. It offers great insight for friends, families, and church leaders who want to encourage them as well.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Relationships

160 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2002

Reviews

[Danielle The Book Huntress · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book around the time I was facing my thirtieth year as a single woman. It's really good for a woman to get things into perspective. Unfortunately it doesn't delve into the hard part of being a Christian single woman, celibacy and how to deal with that. But it's a light approach with sage wisdom into dealing with the social and emotional aspects of singlehood in a world that is very couple-oriented.

[Paulia BSN-RN · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Don't let the disappointments of life stop you from truly living. Do not lose yourself for the sake of love."

[Alyssa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quirky, sassy, funny in some parts, with a lot of valuable lessons. I think two of the things I took from this are 1) Enjoy your singleness, your independence. The ability to pack your bags and go on sudden trips. The many late nights you can spend with friends, the card games you can play with siblings till 2 in the morning. Singleness is not a "curse" as some people like to make it appear. Don't lower your standards, guys and gals, no matter the pressure! 2) Build relationships with people who are in different walks in life: young, old, male, female, single, married, parents, grandparents, etc. Talk to them, learn from them.
Don't be ashamed to say that you are not in a relationship. Throw back your head and look at people straight in the eye. If there is "Mutant and proud" then there is "single and proud."

[Prachipallavi · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who just stumbled across this book, this was surprisingly sweet and helpful! A lot of advice and media about singlehood for women tends to be like - "After having dated a lot, I've realised that dating is not it, I'm exhausted and being single is actually bliss." It's really important for that perspective to exist and be popular - but also as someone who stayed out of dating for a long time, romanticised it and hoped that focussing on other concerns while delaying it will make it all worth it eventually and now facing the fact that life keeps going by (and will probably continue to go by) without a partner in sight - this was a welcome, actionable read.

If you're looking for a book describing the joys and freedoms of being single - this book won't do it for you. There are many sections where the author explores the positives of being single, but it's all in a balanced, rational and reflective way rather than "Woohoo being single is AWESOME". I think this book wouldn't have connected with me had I read it when I was younger and more idealistic in my life plans - but the balanced optimism of this one really resonated with me now. It speaks about the FOMO, awkwardness, shame and often the grief of the life you wanted slipping away very compassionately.

I realise I'm not the target audience for this as I'm not Christian - and the terminology and theology section predictably confused me. I ended up skimming through those parts and approximately getting an idea of the gist of it - which worked fine for me. I think there are sections I will tune back into - this prompted a lot of reflection!

[Nina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my book written in 2002, and with talks of Christianity. But overall a phenomenal book. I loved it!

[B · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked her breezy style. Honest and refreshing.

[Miss · Rating 3 out of 5]

I should have read this a long time ago! Lots of insight I should have read 5 years ago, but maybe I wouldn't have bought what she had to say. Each chapter seemed to have a neat little happy ending, and that was a bit unrealistic to me. However, it was the author's experience, so good for her. I like to read Camerin Courtney's articles and columns, and although I didn't love love this book, I will look forward to continuing to read her columns.

[Marzena · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF
This book made me realize that I *might* have a tendency to pick up my readings either blindly or foolishly unaware how to do it.

You might like this book if you are:
1. single
2. a devoted Christian.

Unfortunately I was aware of the first point only, so I found myself frowning at God's-plans-for-us and eyerolling at all that Christian talk.

[Kerri · Rating 3 out of 5]

this book was overall a good read - there were times that it was a bit cheesy (at some christian books can be..) but it was encouraging to someone like myself who is single. however, it did seem to be written more for someone in their late 20s/early 30s but i did take some good ideas away from it.

[Amanda Farris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has really helped me in my every day life. So eye opening. Now married, I feel proud to spread the knowledge to others.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy to read. Nice to know (or be reminded) that I'm not alone!

[Rachel Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!!!
Written by someone who understands the struggles and joys of singleness!! Highly recomend it!!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's cute, funny in some spots and a light read. I found some useful tidbits of stuff to take from the book. it is lighthearted which is nice.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a book to help one overcome feeling lonely. But it is darn hilarious.