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Written by a noted cultural observer and critic, the book gives readers an enjoyable, eye-opening profile of the risks one finds at many levels, ranging from life-threatening recreations (parachuting, mountain climbing, tight-rope walking) to the seemingly passive but emotionally charged risks of everyday life (building careers, achieving intimacy, etc.). Keyes keeps his analysis fresh and lively by frequently interspersing interviews with famous daredevils and uncelebrated day-to-day risk-takers ... An informative and exciting exploration.

BOOKLIST

An entertaining writer with a light touch ... In Chancing It, Mr. Keyes presents abundant and interesting descriptions of risk takers, from the skydiver who died trying to land on the Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the entrepreneur who turned her love for lace into an antique clothing business ... Mr. Keyes writes about high-wire artists, gamblers, smugglers, shoplifters, sexual adventurers, actors, freelance writers and a family jazz band. He draws his examples from his own interviews and an impressively wide range of published sources.

NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW

Fortunately for the reader, Keyes has written neither a dry academic tract nor a drippy "go for it" self-help book. His interest is in examining risk, not promoting it, and he carries out his task in a lively style that is laced with humor.

MILWAUKEE SENTINEL

Ralph Keyes's new book provides an entertaining, insightful tour through the psychology of risk-taking ... Probably the greatest values of Chancing It are two. It helps readers recognize the contradictions in their own risk-taking behavior, and it makes the case that accepting risk is an essential part of a full and healthy life ... a richly exampled, well-written account.

PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER BOOK REVIEW

In this splendidly written book, author Keyes asks the question "risk what?" For too many of us, what is considered taking a risk is sometimes nothing moe than taking an easier course. As Keyes defines risks, it is an act involving fear of possible loss. So, for example, he questions: If you don't fear losing your life is it a risk to play Russian roulette? If commitment to a relationship is a low priority, is getting a divorce risky? ... This book is hopeful and candid, but gives us all a call to re-examine what, when and how we "go for it." The point we have yet to reach, as seen by this author, is one in which frenetic psychological risk-taking is not only looked on more skeptically, but also where the risks of commitment -- to raising a family especially -- are better appreciated. ... Our goal is one of reaching a healthy balance in risking, making sure that some are short and exciting and others long and reassuring.

ROCHESTER (MN) POST-BULLETIN

Chancing It provides extremely useful insights into human behavior patterns that partially explain why so many continue to expose themselves and others to such health risks as cigarette smoking, not wearing automobile seat belts, driving while under the influence of alcohol, and many others. It is a thought provoking and well written book ...

JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY HEALTH

The general reader will find much to empathize with and the opportunity to gain some insight into his/her own perception of and attitude toward risk.

LIBRARY JOURNAL

In this fascinating volume, journalist Ralph Keyes delves into why individuals seek risks to their bodies, pocketbooks, egos and souls. ... This book offers an excellent overview of a very interesting subject.

CULTURE INFORMATION SERVICE