REVIEW: So Why Have You Never Been Married? (Carl Weisman)

[Apex Reviews]

So Why Have You Never Been Married?
Carl Weisman
ISBN: 9780882823263
New Horizon Press
Reviewed By Allena Tapia

Official Apex Reviews Rating:


Although Carl Weisman comically points out at the very beginning of this study that 'I am not a doctor, nor do I attempt to play one in this book,' he gifts to the curious a clear, careful study of men over the age of 40 who, for a variety of reasons, have never been married. With careful and purposeful research, Weisman explores the question of older, unmarried men from two different standpoints: the man who is wondering what is wrong with him, and the woman who is wondering the same thing.

Augmented with census data, solid citations, and a conversation-based investigation, Weisman offers insight on the subject with a careful explanation of his methodology, a broad sampling of men, and a sometimes ribald honesty.

So Why Have You Never Been Married? goes far beyond such platitudes as 'finding the right one' and clears up misconceptions and myths about the unmarried man. In his subjects' own words, Weisman explores the ideas, beliefs, and values of marriage, touching on subjects such as fear of infidelity and open marriages via conversations that are sometimes amusing, sometimes depressing, and often sexually-charged.

So Why Have You Never Been Married? surveys whether the single life is worth it, whether there are any regrets, and what the future may hold for those looking to bypass marriage. A fast read due to its conversational tone, Weisman’s insightful work also offers probing questions, a vast, solid sampling, and an ending that provides helpful quotes in the subjects' own words.