Author is very knowledgeable. Explains the psychology behind self-defense and rape prevention, a good thing for women to be aware of. Note to author/editor: The spelling is "lose" not "loose". This error occurs throughout the book and is distracting. While spelling has nothing to do with self-defense, errors make people seem less credible. Also, the author states that rape is not the victim's fault--true. But then goes on to say that it wouldn't happen if a potential victim responds properly, i.e. with techniques learned in the book. This gives mixed messages.

Dr. Judith Fein not only skillfully expresses the psychology behind both victimhood and empowerment, but also artfully weaves experiences from her personal life into the tapestry of this book. Far from giving out mixed messages, she explains that victims are not to be blamed, as victims see "no other options." Victims remain victims because they often have no sense of self-esteem, of personal power. Having a healthy sense of empowerment prevents rape and forms of it from happening.

Dr. Fein further cleverly gives pointers on what to expect in different situations, and how one's attitude can contribute towards each outcome. She brings to attention the most basic, common-sense things that are often completely forgotten in a crisis situation (such as to be familiar with the routes you take, to choose your clothing carefully, to be aware of your surroundings at all times, etc.). She not only delves into rape, personal power, and self-defense, but also exposes sexual harassment as being "on the same continuum as rape." She also mentions several differences and similarities between men and women (as men are not only aggressors, but sometimes victims as well).

I highly enjoyed reading about her experiences in the Army (especially since I come from an Air Force family), as well as about the psychology of empowerment. I find that a lot of women in this day and age still need to wake up and discover the gifts and abilities within them. This book makes a significant contribution towards that goal, and will especially help the insecure and not-so-confident.

This book would also make an excellent addition to any library of psychology, self-defense, or womens issues. I wish both Judith and her partner Nancy continued success in their endeavors!

This is the best book that I have ever read on the subject. Dr. Fein, who has taught self-defense for over 26 years, shares her insights on the psychology of personal power and rape defense. 28 people tell wonderful success stories. Because of this book, I beleive that I can now take care of myself--both psychologically and physically. I am much more in control of my life and my personal safety.

She and her husband, Paul Ross are the only two modern people in over 100 years to be banned by the Eighth Northern Indian Pueblo's Council for "abusing our hospitality and goodwill."

Too bad one star is the lowest rating available - it deserves a
-5 rating. I read this book several years ago and still feel the fury of its trite silliness and warped view of Spanish/Mexican relations with the Native American. I keep it only to demonstrate that irresponsible writing about this era still exists. The shallowness of her research is reflected in the shallowness of her story. Who is this misguided yenta, this annionted one who assumes that her "whiteness" can bring the abused Indian together with the meanie Spanish? Words don't exist that adequately describe her cavalier attitude. This is the type of book Dorothy Parker had reviewed and wrote "This book should not be easily put down, it should be thrown against the wall with great force."

"~I was very entertained by this book. It gave me insight into a race of people that I have lived around and had an interest in most of my life. It has given me hope that someday when I return to New Mexico that I could experience getting to know these loving, giving and wonderful people. that they express, but then I am not a Native American Indian.