Sorry, Sorry, Sorry: The Case for Good Apologies

Ingall and McCarthy, creators of SorryWatch, a website that has tracked public apologies since 2012, have compiled the best and worst of modern “apology culture” into a helpful volume organized by category and type. They explain the science and psychology of apologies, give excellent examples of why and how they fail, and provide tips for success. There are six and a half simple steps to an appropriate apology. In addition to explaining how to issue them correctly, the authors showcase how and when it’s appropriate for the recipient to respond, including how to navigate the complicated levels of forgiveness. Celebrity culture provides the best examples for the book, and there are recognizable names, such as Ellen DeGeneres and Kevin Spacey. There are chapters that provide an analysis of political and government apologies, focus on children, probe doctors and the medical world, and examine corporate accountability. All of the seriousness is rounded out with mad libs, bingo cards, and checklists.