A Top Expert Reveals the Secrets Hidden in Your Handwriting

What an incredible book! Michelle Dresbold's book always kept me wanting more. As I reached the end of the book I couldn't help but want to know more about what you can tell from crossing T's and dotting I's. And speaking of I's, they can tell a lot more about you than you would think; they explain your relationship with your parents, your confidence level and more. How? Well, you may just have to order this book to find out! Dresbold uses humor, personal stories about her involvement with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, famous handwriting samples to serve as examples, and a few writing themed puns (and who doesn't love a good pun?) to make the book fun rather than a presentation of facts. It is likely you will ask your friends and family for their handwriting samples after you read this so you can act like the super sleuth you now are. There is a lot you can learn including who you will not dare to argue with, who is a little to extreme in bed, and why people put X's in their names plus so much more! Again, I feel like it is necessary to say, this book is truly incredible!

For reasons mysterious, I was fascinated in my salad days by graphology. I read several books on the subject and even knew a few notable graphologists, including Marie Bernard and Nadya Olyanova. As I grew in age and wisdom, I became increasingly skeptical of the art or science of graphology. I reached what I think is the inescapable conclusion that, while it's not totally devoid of validity, it consists primarily of rear-view analyses and self-fulfilling conclusions. Graphologists seem to be most "successful" when analyzing the handwriting of someone they know ahead of time is a serial killer, a gifted cellist, or a saintly nun.

Still, some vestigial interest must have remained. I was eager to pick up Michelle Dresbold's book, and devoured it in a couple of sittings. Well, it was entertaining, though I didn't learn much in addition to what I already knew. Also, it confirmed that which I asserted in my initial paragraph: A graphologist's assessments are most "on target" when she has a prior familiarity with the writer and his deeds.

If you've already read up on the subject, there's little point in picking up Dresbold's "Sex, Lies, and Handwriting" (unless, like me, you have a nostalgic urge to do so). If you're new to graphology, then you'll find the book diverting and informative. Just don't think you're learning about anything that has much significance or substance. I'm happy to concede that graphology is more than a parlor trick or a form of after-dinner entertainment -- but not much more.

Happy analyzing!

I heard about this book on the "Opie and Anthony" radio po-gram on Sirius XM satellite radio. They interviewed the author and the book sounded interesting. It is an amazing read. I instantly began looking at handwriting differently and her descriptions about what to look for are dead on. Michelle Desbold writes about famous crime cases as well adding to the fascinating skill of handwriting analysis.

I am currently re-reading the book and taking notes about handwriting analysis.

A must read for anybody interested in criminal justice, law, etc.

I've been interested in handwriting analysis since I was in my teen years, but I've found so many of the books on the topic to read like dry, boring textbooks. Not so with Michelle Dresbold's book. From the first page, Dresbold grabs the readers and entertains while instructing. I read the entire book in one day because I was so enthralled with her examples, her writing, and her information.

I particularly liked the structure of the book, how she moved from some general information into more specific examples of analysis. And I felt like after finishing the book, I had a good enough grasp to begin a very rough analysis of the handwriting of those around me (hopefully we won't see any felon's hooks or pugilistic p's).

I've read 4 handwriting analysis books so far- this was the first one I picked up. Although I will say it was interesting enough to keep me reading I didn't preen much useful information from it because of the format- or lack thereof. There were introductions into topics one piece at a time and then it would jump to another or say 'you'll learn about this later/we talked about this earlier'. It never seemed like a full-on lesson. And I found it hard to trudge through the pages trying to connect this piece with that part and so on.

It was almost more of a look at what graphology can do rather than a useful tool for learning it. There were plenty of true crime cases and the handwriting profiles that went with them. However, it always seemed to me that hindsight prevailed in these profiles, even though a few times she mentions that no prior knowledge is needed or is better that you don't have any. Many times the author came off as more of a braggart, seemingly using her book as a solicitation for new clients rather than a guide to spark interest in the public about the field.

Also, in every example given, only the highlighted topic for that section was pointed out in the handwriting sample. I would have liked to see all the traits of the sample pointed out. And depending on what page you were on, the translation of a trait would mean something totally different from sample to sample even though the trait stayed the same. I'm sure it's all part of the art of translation, but for learning purposes made it very difficult to pinpoint what to look for and how to interpret it.

Overall, it was insightful into how it can be used in solving crimes and other tasks, but jumpy in lesson topics and lacking in full explanations.
If looking for an actual textbook type that's easy to read AND learn I highly reccommend
1. "Handwriting Analysis; Putting It to Work for You" by Andrea McNichol
Handwriting Analysis : Putting It to Work for You
2. "Handwriting Analysis: A Complete Self-Teaching Guide" by Scott P. Hollander (also listed in places as P. Scott Hollander)
Handwriting Analysis: A Complete Self-teaching Guide

I've read several books on Handwriting analysis and this is one of the best most recently written books by far. Handwriting analysis has many variations and nuances, but this author takes the mystery out of it. Extremely well written and easy to understand, the author gives personal stories and in -depth understanding of the basics of handwriting and how to use it in your daily life.

"Sex, Lies and Handwriting" is riveting. It is well-researched and highly-entertaining. Everything is well explained and illustrated. It is so much fun that you just don't want to be interrupted while you're reading! I particularly liked the way Michelle Dresbold combines the analysis of famous, infamous and not so famous people's handwriting. This, to me, makes the author even more credible. Her success and reputation speak volumes."

Being interested in the field of handwriting analysis for the past 35 years, I bought the hardcover of this book when it first came out. Those who know nothing about handwriting analysis might be impressed with Dresbold's effort, or maybe most of the favorable reviews have been written by one of those "good review" mills that we now know exist to pump up sales. I seriously cannot understand how ANYONE could be impressed with this book. It is a mish-mash written by someone with a bigger ego than understanding of true handwriting analysis.

Later, I read a news article that said the comparison section on the JonBenet Ramsey case had been taken from another author's work and they were suing to get it removed. Apparently, that was true, because the paperback version of Dresbold's book does not contain the same comparison charts for the Ramsey case as the hardback edition. If someone copies another person's work and passes it off as their own, what does that say about their integrity and skills?

That much aside, another reviewer says they found the book repetitive, and I agree. I also agree that the last part of the book reads more like a "Dear Abby" column than a well-written book on the subject of how handwriting analysis reveals innate personality. I have a library of handwriting analysis books, but I honestly threw Dresbold's book in the trash, especially when I learned of her deceit in regards to the Ramsey charts. The book is not worth keeping, and I wish I hadn't spent the money.

Michelle is limitless in her knowledge, she is a natural. How fortunate

for the rest of us to read this extremely interesting and revealing book.

She covers the part of handwriting analysis that many teachers won't reveal to students, and these are the most important topics we need to know. This book covers what we would learn in a year of instruction in the classroom. I studied Graphology 15 years ago and dropped out of my classes to pursue my 60 hour a week Custom Residential Building company. How lucky am I to find her book, I am re-inpired! I have now retired from my building company, and I am focusing on Graphology once again, this time with no distractions. I am reading this book for the second time. It's just to valuable, I want to absorb it all.

Great book…You will learn a lot about handwriting, history, profiling, criminology and the human mind---all while being thoroughly entertained. I have read, underlined and reread this book. Unlike a dry text book, it is easier to learn (and remember more) by the interactive exercises, examples and stories. I also enjoyed the humor that is sprinkled throughout the book. Thank you, Michelle Dresbold, for writing such a fascinating book. Can’t wait to read your next one!

I first heard about this book while listening to the author interviewed on the Opie and Anthony XM show. The interview was a must listen and the book is a must read.

This book needs to be read twice. The first time you get the general idea of how to analyze handwriting and by the second reading, you'll become very aware of others' writing to the point where you start to watch how your own writing looks. I find myself writing very carefully now!

Great read, excellent examples of historical figures' handwriting and lots of self-quizzes about your own writing habits. This is a fun book.

I was looking for a handwriting analysis book. I owned one in the early to mid 80s. I am searching for the one I originally had. My daughter bought this book for me. It's more about famous personalities, not how to actually analyze handwriting. It was disappointing in that aspect. I thank my daughter for trying, but this book does not cover the point by point detail I was hoping for. This book is good for reading....not so much for handwriting analysis.

Michelle Dresbold wrote a compelling book filled with fascinating stories, but ... what I found even more important, was the way I learned about myself and what my own handwriting revealed. For example ... when I am not fully crossing my "t"... She states that you are not good at following through on things. Wow!!! That has always been one of my frustrations!!! Now that I have been making a conscious effort ... I feel good about the progress I have made. It really does change your life when you change your handwriting. I highly recommend this book. I took my book to work. A guy in our office is really weird and we finally figured out this "nut case". From teenagers to senior citizen's ...You've got to buy this book!!!!

Excellent book, easy to read and very interesting. I had no idea handwriting revealed so much! I think everyone should read this book! I have bought copies from my family and friends, perfect gift! My brother met the author and her analysis of him was right on, perfect. I give it 10 stars. Nancy in Massachhusetts

Super entertaining. All you have ever wanted to know about everything.....and oh ya handwriting. Walk through some of the most talked about murder cases of all time (Jack the Ripper, Scott Peterson, Mark Karr) You need to see what Michelle reveals through handwriting of the mother and Karr I think mommy dearest wasn't so dear that night with her daughter in the basement--the handwriting reveals why.

Ever want to know what people really think about themselves or the world around them? Look at their Signature or a post-it note used for a grocery list. The results are shocking! Michelle gives a 101 on how that works in this amazing book. Bravo Michelle! I want to know more-write another one...make a movie...get on TV...anything. I'd love to see a book of some of your favorite "Handwriting Doctor" articles.

"Sex, Lies and Handwriting" can change your life.

Have you ever wonder what people, including yourself, are all about? If so, you've got to read this book. Anyone interested in the inner workings of the human mind will find "Sex, Lies and Handwriting" enlightening. As a scientist I tend to be skeptical about subjects like this however, I have read this book from cover to cover and can't get enough. The information is not just fascinating and informative, but the author, Michelle Dresbold, has a wry sense of humor that makes the book a fun and ente

This book is definitely worthwhile reading. I highly recommend it.

Dov

This is a cleverly constructed, highly entertaining book that teaches us what our handwriting style reveals about ourselves and others, including many notables from Jack the Ripper to Elvis Presley to whoever wrote the JonBenet Ramsey ransom note. It is an easy read that has made it around our office quickly and led to some fun-filled discissions about each other's handwritten notes. In a way it reminds us of the popular science we know about body language, although handwriting seems to tell us so much more. Dresbold is an "expert" on this subject who, characteristic of the best of those who are tops in their field, can present it in a way that is understandable and enjoyable for a wide audience. Highly recommended.

This book is so interesting. Not just what you learn about handwriting analysis but what you learn about yourself. On top of that the author tells stories that are exciting and gripping and amazingly true. This is not some scientific, clinical study. A surprise revelation in the middle was my favorite part.I was so bummed when it came to the end. I have read this book over and over again and finally had to take a break when my family begged me to share. I can not wait until she writes another book. This is definitely one of my favorites, I recommend it to anyone and everyone.

Michelle has written the absolute best book on graphology ever. Simply impossible to put down. I have told my friends about this book and they are all enthused about a subject new to most of us. They all plan to buy the book for themselves as I want to reread it and refuse to lend it out for a while longer.

Everyone will enjoy reading this. It is lots more fun than an Agatha Cristy novel and true crime was never more interesting. Thanks to Michelle for opening up a brand new way of looking at the world and the people in it. I promise no one will be disappointed.

Dolores Davis

Bought for my husband, I read instead. Very interesting! I'm hooked. Now I want to see everyones writing that I come across. This is an interactive book so you really feel like you are learning something. Also, editors notes are easy to understand.

Loved this book! This highly entertaining and instructive book reveals what ones handwriting style reveals about ourselves and others. As an Engineer, normally I'm skeptical about subjects like this, but Michelle Dresbold won me over. Now, I can't stop looking at the handwriting of everyone I meet. In addition to being entertaining, handwriting analysis has the potential to be an important business tool, with potential use in areas such contract negotiations and background screening of potential employees. Dresbold presents this subject in an easily understandable, fun and practical way. Highly recommended.

It is really amazing that handwriting can reveal so much about a person. This book tells it all and is quite convincing. I often am very wrong about peoples personalities because so many people put on good acts and later you find out how wrong you are about them. But as this author says, the handwriting cannot lie. You can see what people are really trying to hide and know peoples secret lives better. Wish I had know more so I would know who to avoid and who to trust. A nice read, and would recommend it though many out there are skeptical. (Perhaps they have something to hide!)

I spent an entire Saturday afternoon in Barnes and Noble reading this book of apparent non-fiction. Michelle Dresbold is a handwriting analyst/expert who has been employed by a variety of criminal departments for analyzing and profiling criminal suspects based on their handwriting. It is clear that she has some sort of gift in handwriting analysis, however...

Sex, Lies, and Handwriting is an attempt by the author to educate the reader about and teach the reader how to analyze handwriting by using writing and signature samples throughout the book. But while she clearly possesses this gift, she fails in teaching the reader, for she uses the easiest examples possible. That is not her major flaw, however.

Dresbold also profiles a number of serial killers and other people of infamy based on their handwriting. The problem here is that she is not able to convince the reader that she has accurately profiled them without previous knowledge - it seemed to me that she knew her subject's personality and criminal details, then made the handwriting fit the subject. Ted Bundy was a serial killer? Well, if we had only looked at his handwriting, we could have figured that out long before he killed dozens of innocent co-eds. I don't think so. And therein lies two problems.

First, as said before, she is profiling subjects of whom she already has distinct knowledge. Second, however, is the idea that a certain characteristic in one's handwriting can give way to an individual's actions, intentions, personality, perceptions of self, and relationships with his or her mother and father. I don't think so.

Uh oh...I noticed my girlfriend doesn't close her lowercase cursive `o.' This means she is untrustworthy and is likely to lie or not keep a secret. I guess I should break up with her before she cheats and lies to me. Well I don't buy it, but perhaps I will become a believer in the future if something occurs.

Her book would be more convincing if she also spoke of times where she has been completely wrong or if she gave examples of people who did not match the handwriting profile - every marketer knows the value of gaining trust by giving negative examples as well.

Despite her failure to convince the reader of profiling people based on handwriting, she fascinates when discussing her beliefs about who really killed JonBenet Ramsey and the true identity of Jack the Ripper. Her handwriting analysis combined with other circumstantial evidence in both cases is quite convincing, but I will leave you to investigate on your own.

Ultimately, Michelle Dresbold's Sex, Lies, and Handwriting is an unconvincing look at profiling a person based on handwriting but does give a scintillating new look into at least two fascinating unsolved mysteries in the history of modern times.

My father and I shared this book and talked about it to our friends, we thought it was fantastic. We bought it just to see what it was about and loved it. We laughed that now we would be analyzing ourselves, co-workers and friends. This was easy to read and understand. Very interested in learning more.

This is a fascinating book, and well researched. Michelle Dresbold has written a great book on handwriting analysis that's interesting as well as entertaining. I especially enjoyed the examples of handwriting and the different personality characteristic that were listed. If you're the type of person who's curious about human psychology, you'll find this book intriguing.

learn things about yourself and others that you might almost wish you didnt know ...but you wil be glad you do ...if you arent afraid of the truth! Written in a most enjoyable and entertaining style, though dealing with a subject of enormous depth and the potential for great enlightenment

You will read this book to get a better understanding of those around you and end up finding out more then you intended about yourself. Very insightful and easy to read. Lots to learn and to keep in mind as you review the handwriting of the people you come incontact with everyday.

My father and I shared this book and talked about it to our friends, we thought it was fantastic. We bought it just to see what it was about and loved it. We laughed that now we would be analyzing ourselves, co-workers and friends. This was easy to read and understand. Very interested in learning more.

This is a fascinating book, and well researched. Michelle Dresbold has written a great book on handwriting analysis that's interesting as well as entertaining. I especially enjoyed the examples of handwriting and the different personality characteristic that were listed. If you're the type of person who's curious about human psychology, you'll find this book intriguing.

learn things about yourself and others that you might almost wish you didnt know ...but you wil be glad you do ...if you arent afraid of the truth! Written in a most enjoyable and entertaining style, though dealing with a subject of enormous depth and the potential for great enlightenment

You will read this book to get a better understanding of those around you and end up finding out more then you intended about yourself. Very insightful and easy to read. Lots to learn and to keep in mind as you review the handwriting of the people you come incontact with everyday.

What I really wonder about is that people still believe this stuff - "graphology". Again and again, whenever put to a controlled test, graphologists failed to live up to the expectations they built up. You may consider it a diverting pastime, but it becomes really dangerous and damaging when an author, like Dresbold, tells her readers that she can help them "screen" potential mates through their handwriting. I don't want to imagine how many women ended up in bad situations due to those predictions or how many men were wrongfully accused of being psychopaths.

Or let me put it like this: Dresbold takes a bunch of samples from convicted criminals and then tells you why their handwriting shows that they are convicted criminals. Mrs. Dresbold, how about you submit to a test where you *don't know* what samples are from convicted killers and innocent citizens and then you determine who is who?

If you are interested how all this is fluffed up to seem impressive on radio on television shows, look up Skepdic's entry for graphology.