This book is great- if you don't actually suffer from BPD (borderline personality disorder). Unfortunately, it does go into a lot of detail about BPD, but it's extremely outdated. It gives you no hope with the wonderful new medications and treatments available. If you actually suffer from BPD (as I do) the book can be extremely depressing, leading you to think you're just kind of "stuck with it" and that there's not really help available. My mother, on the other hand, loved the book. I think it's easier for someone trying to just understand BPD, than someone trying to live with it. It does give a great deal of info about borderline personality disorder, and there's several places where you go "wow, that is SO me." (Well, even the title reminds me of me at times!) I'd recommend it- if you DON'T suffer. I think if you do though, you'd be better off with a newer, updated book.