It takes a great woman to spot greatness in other women. Have a good laugh at your own expense.

Discover how completely happy you are in your own skin.

Such experiences, says Véronique Vienne, are expressions of the art of being a woman.

In this gem of a book, Vienne gently guides women of all ages and cultures through the practical– and a few rather more whimsical– lessons in the art of womanhood and in the joy of loving life as only a woman can. Along the way, she imparts unique gifts of wisdom such as:

• An alert mind is the most eye-catching feature of a face.

• Smart compliments can improve the way you look as much as beauty products.

• Paying more to eat less is counterintuitive, yet it is the best diet around.

• Fashion is a nonsurgical nip-and-tuck technique.

• Female camaraderie keeps you healthy.

• Men should be given the benefit of the doubt (because they truly need it).

With its spirited prose and witty illustrations, The Art of Being a Woman informs and celebrates the many ways we all can release our insecurities, count our blessings, and experience what the French call “joie de vivre,” a lively tryst between heart and mind.