I don't think Sally Quinn meant for this to be a guide to entertaining. It's light and breezy and certainly a fun summertime read. If you don't have an interest in Sally and Ben--and in Washington--you might find it not so interesting. BUT, if you do, you will probably find it very entertaining.I did manage to pick up some entertaining tips along the way. They may come under the description of common sense advice, but it's good to hear them nonetheless from someone who has entertained a lot--and been entertained a lot. These tips include things like--don't have the same party every year, don't play party games without warning your guests ahead of time, don't ask people to give toasts unless they have had time to prepare---and the list goes on.The bottom line is--I loved this book---and give it a hearty recommendation!