Review - Cow Sense for Young People

10 December 2015
By Ruxyn Tang

I buy dozens of books every year but I'm guilty because I probably only read half of them most of the time. Although I love reading, I've never written a book review. So here's my first attempt, and this is for Lydia Teh's latest book, 'Cow Sense for Young People'.

'Cow Sense for Young People' is the author's 9th book, a compilation of articles first published in The Sun. The book is structured in a series of frequently asked questions (FAQ) format.

Frankly, I personally feel that humor is always a hit and miss thing but one thing's for sure, Lydia Teh is one witty writer. The book is perfect for light reading, and the style of writing (plus the usage of Manglish) makes this book not just relatable but also enjoyable and easy to read. Though it is difficult for me to say that it's the kind of book that I will pack inside a bag and bring with for an adventure, I do see myself picking up the book and re-reading it over and over again for leisure.

On surface, people may quickly dismiss it as a book under the 'Funny' genre, but really it's a self-development book that offers nuggets of wisdom and plenty useful advice for youngsters. I can foresee that some may not completely agree with the author on certain points, but I believe they are great food for thought.

On another note, I am pleased to find lots of reference to pop icons such as Adele, Simon Cowell and even Youtube personality, Ryan Higa. These names should resonate with the ordinary youth and young adult.

Perhaps I'm nitpicking but I think it's crucial to mention the following since the book is targeted at young people (though it's also obvious that adults may also enjoy this book). There's a reference in the book to Finding Nemo's Dory but the name was referenced as 'Dora'. So yes, the popular fish is Dory, not Dora (The Explorer). I do think that young people would have spotted this mistake since Finding Nemo is extremely popular - one of the highest grossing animated film of all time and is the best selling DVD of all time. And personal pet peeve, Nicol David was spelled as Nicole David.

Favourite line from the book: Once you’ve decided that happiness is a choice, it is easier to align your attitude to make happiness a reality.

In essence, 'Cow Sense for Young People' appears to be a book of answers to questions that I may not have even thought about before, and it's a great read. There's nothing really controversial except perhaps (it's arguable) that the author often offers a conventional worldview of things which the modern youth may cease to agree.

Finally, sit back and relax as you read on as Lydia Teh is going to give you an entertaining look at the world of young people who wonders about the practicalities of life.

Source: www.ruxyn.com

Review of Still Honking in The Expat - March 2015

Review of Stretching your dollars and sense by Liv&Luv

Review by Liv & Luv Blog
3 February 2015

Those who lived through the Japanese Occupation of our country know what it’s like to live frugally. I remember my grandmother (whom we fondly called Opah) telling us that she ensured her children would never go hungry by living well within her means.

Although my grandmother has passed on since, her words of wisdom stayed with me. So imagine my delight when I came across some of Opah’s tried-and-tested money-saving tips when I was reading this book.

Lydia Teh is a renowned Malaysian author and newspaper columnist who has seven other books to her name including the best-selling Honk! If You’re Malaysian. She is also a mother of four children.

As stated on its cover, the book contains more than 300 money-saving tips for anyone and everyone. In today’s tough economic climate, it pays to be prudent and there is no better way than to trim down your expenses. This book will help you do just that. It is chock-full of sensible money-saving suggestions that you can immediately apply in many areas of your life.

The tips are compiled into 11 Chapters entitled: Tightening the Belt, Super Shopper Savers, Prudent Household Tips, Utility Savings, Grooming for Less, Money Matters Most, Paying Less Tax is a Relief, Thrifty Transport Tips, Savings on Special Occasions, Leisure on a Budget and Miscellaneous and More Savings.

Every chapter consists of more than 10 tips and each tip is explained adequately. Whether you are a home-maker, a student, a salary earner or a business owner, the book covers a wide range of money-saving ideas which can easily be put into practice. The book ends with a few pages of lovely Quotations on Frugality and Simple Living and there is also a Glossary of words which is helpful to a non-Malaysian reader.

Let me assure you that this book is not telling you to stop spending completely. The writer emphasizes this in her introduction and recommends that what we should do instead is to make smarter choices and manage our finances better. I could not agree more.

Something that lends a very special touch to this book is how the writer has shared her experiences in using the tips herself. She is neither shy nor afraid of giving readers a glimpse into her personality. Some examples include the time she bought a denim jacket with two missing buttons because it was on discount and how she is known as the ‘leftover’ queen in her family.

It is also important to be aware that not every tip in this book is acceptable to everyone but those are few and far between. For instance, some readers may disagree with the writer on the tip about movie squatters. Instead of buying a ticket, you get your young child to share your seat with you or let the child sit on the stairs if you have an aisle seat. The downside to this is that the child may throw a tantrum when he or she becomes uncomfortable and this will consequently reduce the movie-watching experience for yourself and other paying patrons.

The writer acknowledges that she does not expect all the tips in this book to be used. However, given that there are more than 300 tips available, there is a wide variety for you to choose from.

I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for various ways to save money in his or her daily life. It can also be a nice gift for a friend or relative whom you think may appreciate some help in getting their expenses under control.

Still Honking in Her World

Her World, November 2014

It's been seven years since Lydia Teh first published Honk! If You're Malaysian and she is now back with a much-anticipated new book Still Honking - More Scenes from Malaysian Life.


The humourous and witty book captures the essence of what it feels like to be a Malaysian. If you're in need of a pick-me-up, look no further. Let Lydia entertain you with funny and hilarious characters and situations that all of us are familiar with. After all, there's nothing more joyous than reading about your own culture.