Before We Say "I Do." 2nd ed

Ellen Pilon is a library assistant in the Patrick Power Library at Saint
Mary’s University in Halifax.

In this second edition of a handbook aimed at both engaged and married
couples, the author, a professional therapist and provincial marriage
commissioner in Alberta, identifies four components of a happy marriage:
good choice of partner, agreement on how they will parent, healthy
attitude, good sex life. The main reason for broken marriages is failed
expectations, Whalen says. The most common bone of contention is
financial difficulty.

The book is well organized with clear instructions and guidelines.
Subject sections include finance, religion/spirituality, sex, cultural
backgrounds, roles, habits, feelings/emotions, future family,
work/leisure, and health, among others. Each section includes a brief
informative introduction and up to 64 questions for discussion.
Appendixes include an example of a premarital contract and tips on
sustaining romance in a marriage.

This easy-to-use and lucidly written handbook is recommended for
couples who want to strengthen the lines of communication and achieve a
deeper knowledge of each other.