Getting your player ready...
“Town & Country’s Handbook for Hosts – A Practical Guide to Party Planning and Gracious Entertaining,” by Adam Bluestein (Hearst Books, $17.95)
Even the most expertly-planned parties would not be complete without some small calamity. Here, seasoned hosts and professional party planners share tips on dealing with inebriated guests, offensive jokesters and the klutz around your best china. This comprehensive guide to handling awkward situations with style includes such great hosting tips as how to jump-start a conversation and how to make the perfect martini.

