Forty: The Age and Symbol

"The distinguished anthropologist and folklorist Stanley Brandes has written an elegant and stimulating treatise on what it means to be 40 and on what 40 means as a symbol." -Gary Alan Fine, Contemporary Sociology "Brandes's tour through numerology and etymology is rich and entertaining." -Psychology Today

"The midlife crisis is a popular topic these days, but this book is unique in that it draws upon psychology, history, literature, religion, anthropology, and folklore to present a summary of our past and present attitudes towards both the number and the age 40. An imminently readable book." -Library Journal

"Forty gratifies and consoles, as its author demonstrates how it is in our power to alter the scenario; we can change the third act in the life span, or altogether exchange the stage play/life analogy for a more truthful and rewarding vision of our lives." -Newsday "The book is avaliant effort to formulate a perspective on the darkness and bewilderment that all too frequently descend on this 'unstable moment.' It is a friendly and supportive book. For anyone about to shoulder this yoke of years unguided, Forty is a handsome volume and a relevant gift." -Wilson Library Bulletin