November 17. 2001 Etiquette Teacher 'Survives' Best-Seller By Linda Hughes, Times staff writer Robin Thompson is stepping out of character to contribute to the "Worst Case Scenario Survival Handbook" series, which holds forth humorous how-tos for various situations. Ordinarily, Robin is known as owner of Etiquette-Network. She is an advisor and lecturer on image and etiquette. The second book in the series by Joshua Piven, David Borgenicht and Jennifer Worick, "Dating and Sex," contains two pieces Thompson wrote: "How to Stop a Wedding" and "How to Survive Meeting the Parents." I say things in a nice way and then Josh makes it funny," Thompson said. "These are not my normal topics, but I do have a sense of humor. It's fun do to something different." For instance, if you lack the courage to speak now or forever hold your peace at a wedding, the book suggests feigning an illness." Among Thompson's suggestions on "How to Survive Meeting the Parents" is "Do not kiss or hug the parents unless they make the first move." She was also asked to contribute to the third book in the series, "Surviving the Holidays," in which she will deal with meddling parents and in-laws and responding to nosy questions. Josh goes to the people who know, gets their opinion, and then puts his dash on it." Other writers also contribute to the book. Although they are given credit in the book, they are not paid. "It's great publicity for me, great exposure," Thompson said. Home | Etiquette Book | Children/Teens | Corporate/College Class Locations | Press Coverage | Graduation Photos | Contact | Links