Everyone knows someone who is impossible to please, critical, judgmental, picky, and stubbornly closed-minded. These are symptoms of a disorder called obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), but it's common for people to have subclinical levels of some or all of these qualities.

Impossible to Please, is a manual for dealing with these difficult people without sitting through stressful arguments, and passive-aggressive behaviour. It empowers readers to take charge of the relationship and regain their dignity and confidence in interactions with the individual.

This book features specific strategies that are immediately effective when conversing with critical people, through the setting of boundaries, improving communication, and asserting themselves. Readers learn to deal with the impossible to please in romantic relationships, friendships, family, and work relationships.

Neil J. Lavender, PhD, is professor of psychology at Ocean County College in New Jersey. He specializes in personality, child, and abnormal Psychology. He is co-author of Toxic Coworkers and recipient of four Innovative Developmental Grants.

Alan Cavaiola, PhD, is associate professor of psychology at Monmouth University and co-author of Toxic Coworkers.