Gestures: The Do's and Taboos of Body Language Around the World

by Roger E. Axtell

Book Overview

An interesting and useful examination of various gestures and body language as they are used throughout the world. The author describes some of the most commonly used gestures and their respective meanings in different cultures and gives illustrated descriptions of gestures performed by different parts of the body. These are cross referenced by country, listing gestures and body language covering all major geographic and cultural regions.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0471536725
• ISBN13: 9780471536727
• Release Date: August 1991
• Publisher: Wiley
• Length: 240 Pages
• Weight: 0.75 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

Covers everything you will need to know about gestures

Well, I was really blown away by this book, which seems to cover more things than I could have conceived! Well written, easy to understand, numerous drawings for us visual people so we have no doubt about what is being discussed, and a sense of humor too. Although the book is over 200 pages in length, it was a quick read because of the easy format and interesting history behind why we do what we do when it comes to gesturing. And for me, it brought back memories of places I have traveled to, and customs encountered. For instance, in India when the people you are talking to want you to know that they agree with you or that they are listening to you, they bob/nod their head quickly back and forth, left to right. At first you think they are indicating "no" or disagreeing with you. Had I bought the book before that trip, I wouldn't have been so confused! Highly recommend this to anyone who travels a lot or for someone who just has an interest in customs around the world.

Useful, interesting and funny

This is a nice book. If you are going to travel abroad or you meet foreign people, you would like to know what these people understand from your body language. Of course, the book also gives you good material for chatting with friends from anywhere (including your own coutry). Don't expect the book to tell you what a gesture means in every part of the world or to show you every gesture used in some part of the world. The book of course doesn't do such a hard task, though it tries: it explains you the gestures that are generalized (or most common) in a country. However, be always aware that there are exceptions and gestures you should know and are not included in the book. Below are some questions you'll answer reading the book. In some cases the book gives you also the explanation about the gesture (what it comes from). Where should you avoid the "OK sign"? Where should a man enter before a woman? Why Latin people get closer to you when talking? How should you bow in Japan?

"Thumbs up!"(U.S.)

Very helpful, amusing,well-organized, and no unnecessary information. For our diverse society, this is good to have on hand. connie338 shipped the book right away, too. Thanks!

High interest for middle school students

I've added the three Roger Axtell titles to my classroomfor use during silent reading period. My students have learneda lot about cultural differences and what is deemed acceptablesocial behavior around the world.

An opener of not only eyes but attitudes.

Speaking 5 languages I already had an appreciation for the customs of the people's languages that I speak. Working in Corrections ( in a prison ) for twenty years I have seen a change in the mix of different cultures that are entering the correctional system. What an advantage to be able to speak fluent Spanish, and armed with further knowledge of the Spanish culture your dealing with was definitely a plus. I also have many friends that are Japanese, Hindu, and Latin American, so this book for me was more than just a helping hand, it enabled me to experience a more down home taste of their every day culture. Great book. A must read for any one in state or federal government services.