Barker, whose blog and first book are both titled Barking Up the Wrong Tree, tests truisms about relationships, romantic and otherwise, in this well-researched investigation. The author subjects to scientific scrutiny four common maxims on relationships: "don't judge a book by its cover," "love conquers all," "a friend in need is a friend indeed," and "no man is an island." Exploring case studies that include a horse who could answer simple math questions using people reading skills, and a woman with near-perfect memory, Barker unravels how perceptions affect human judgment and concludes that people are "bad at reading others." On love, the author finds that it may not conquer all, but some strategies can make overcoming more likely, such as trying new things as a couple and encouraging "positive growth and improvement." Barker's wide-eyed curiosity and intellectual openness ("This is a I had no idea what I was doing so I talked to a lot of people... to get some solid information book") make him an ideal tour guide. The result is a fascinating, myth-busting look at relationships. (May)

Self-help blogger Barker follows up his best-seller Barking Up the Wrong Tree: The Surprising Science Behind Why Everything You Know About Success Is (Mostly) Wrong with this playful exploration of human relationships. The author begins by stressing the importance of first impressions and how people are perceived. In part two, Barker emphasizes the significance of friendships and how they differ in quality and change over time and as we age. Building on that, he emphasizes friendship in romantic relationships, which leads up to part three, which explores love and marriage. In this chapter, Barker provides predictors of happiness and success in relationships and solid advice. Finally, for those who are not interested in relating to others, part four explores the benefits and pitfalls of loneliness. Smart, yet funny, Barker frequently draws from scientifically backed studies, yet the tone is always humorous and conversational. His examples, drawn from famous and infamous individuals from all walks of life, will help readers solidify every concept he introduces. VERDICT Readers interested in sociology and interpersonal relationships will enjoy this humorous, science-based exploration of human relationships and what makes them last.--Jen Clifton