For Those Who Can't Attend Class, There's a Book By Elise Zwicky of the Journal Star Pekin - Girls who can't attend Robin Thompson's etiquette classes or those who want written lessons for future reference are in luck. Robin has just published her first book, "Be The Best You Can Be." "It's really a compilation of all my notes, quizzes, reviews and my best articles, if you will," Robin said of the 112 page workbook, which she self-published. "This is something the parents can go over article by article with their children. It's not going to go out of date." Robin, who's been teaching etiquette in Illinois since 1983, said she's been working on the book for about two years. "I'm a perfectionist and critical of what I do, and it was just never good enough," she admitted. "But I finally decided I had to get it out. I've had so many requests for it." Robin attributes some of her success with reaching young girls to the the fact that she has stood in their shoes, or sneakers as the case may be. With a public relations degree from Bradley University, Robin continues to dabble in modeling, fashion shows and voice-overs. She taught modeling and worked in public relations before deciding to teach young girls. She also does image seminars for adults. "Children are very open to anything you tell them, while adults are sometimes a little set in their ways. And with adults you have many more years and negative thoughts to undo. But the adults are there because they want to learn." While most of her students are girls, Robin said she also teaches boys, primarily in one-on-one classes. "Boys would never admit they come to charm school, but once they're here, they love it!" Robin plans to use her new book in future classes and she's seeking a business to sponsor the publication. "I would like to put it in the schools and make it available to anyone who wants it." Home | Etiquette Book | Children/Teens | Corporate/College Class Locations | Press Coverage | Graduation Photos | Contact | Links