Brian King (7)

A great blend of facts, science, experiments, and anecdotes.
The first half of the book deals with the science behind so called "coincidences", discussing possibilities both very scientific and metaphysical. The authors also devote a good part of the book to the psychology behind why humans need coincidences, why we are so excited to see them, why we like a great big universal "YES" saying "you are important!" etc. The tone is very conversational and interesting, and very respectful whether show more you believe in angels creating these events or you believe that crazy people are making it up.

The second half of the book is devoted to anecdotes, the authors admit up front that the best thing about coincidences is that they make for great stories, and take advantage of that by giving us lots of stories. The one thing I had trouble with is that the organization of the book groups like stories together, making me a little "burnt out" by that type after a few. Also, they mix together ones that they have a good explanation for with the ones that they don't.
Altogether, though, I was thoroughly spooked while reading, that delightful shiver down my spine. Quite a good read, and very quick for a nonfiction book. show less

Most would take umbrage at being informed they tell at least six lies a day but, except for hermits and misanthropes, the tally is probably far higher. Much linguistic intercourse comprises lies – black, white, and every colour in-between.

Brian King expounds and these and Yellow Lies, told out of cowardice, Purple Lies of exaggeration, Blue Lies of law and order, Green Lies of self-serving environmentalists, and Grey Lies – casual everyday deceptions.

Salesmen, politicians and show more journalists all come under the spotlight, but King reminds us most lies are told simply to ease the path of social discourse. We are al liars for the greater good – and who can condemn that? show less

A decent, readable look at the world of deceptions we practice. The author does make some blanket generalizations which may be a bit too broad, assuming that everyone practices certain types of deceptions. While I would never claim to be deception-free, I must admit I began to feel a bit naive in the face of his claims that EVERYONE lies when selling a car or a house, as these are areas where I believe it is important to be scrupulously honest. So, some of his assumptions annoy a bit, but show more overall, his analysis is dead on. It is not written in a scholarly manner, so it should be accessible to everyone. Another weakness is his lack of detailed notes, and his bibliography is totally minimalist, so it's nearly impossible to track down where he acquired certain important facts. show less

Not much substance to this book. Just a pleasant diversion on a rainy day when I didn't feel like thinking.