Let me start by saying I am not a romantic. Not at all. Ok, I like getting flowers, but beyond that, I would rather break out an inflatable llama than a bottle of bubbly for an evening of passion. So I think Redbook’s idea of “sexy” ways of spending time together differs slightly from mine; nevertheless, I think 500 Great Dates|500 Great Dates is an interesting and useful little book for those looking to spend more quality time together as a couple.

The book begins with a section full of suggestions for planning and preparing from the date. Its suggestions are useful and practical (for example, to take turns planning and preparing the date, so you are not always the one in charge, telling him what to do). It even has suggestions for how to get ready for the date and how to ‘present’ yourself with a flourish once you are ready. It also breaks the suggestions down into a sort of time line—what to do a week, day, hour, etc. ahead of time.

The bulk of the book is divided into 11 “types” of dates—“Dinner and a Movie,” “Dating… With Children,” “Mini Getaways,” “Double Daters,” “The Big Dates” (anniversary, Valentine’s Day, etc.) and more. The ideas range from dinner and dance cruises to staying at home and eating fast food on an elegant table, so there is something to suit most every taste (though there is no mention of inflatable llamas).

The chapters are divided into sections dealing with different aspects of dating and arranging dates. Most chapters include not only suggestions for dating activities, but tips for dating on a budget, suggestions for last-minute dates, lists of 10 “must-do’s” for various types of dating styles, dating dilemmas that may arise, and ways of spicing up the date.

My main complaint about the book is its binding. It is definitely sturdy, but it is also extremely stiff and can be difficult to read and hold open at times without severely cracking the spine. Other than that, however, I think this book is a steal for the price, and that just about everyone will find something useful within its pages.

I re-read my original review, and realize that it is written from a completely heterosexual perspective, and I apologize for that. This book has useful suggestions for couples of any orientation.