cover image Old School Love: And Why It Works

Old School Love: And Why It Works

Joseph and Justine Simmons with Amy Ferris. Dey Street, $26.99 (240p) ISBN 978-0-06-293972-2

Joseph Simmons (aka Rev Run from Run-DMC) and his wife, Justine, who have been married for 25 years, offer advice for a lasting union in this sincere and heartfelt collaboration. The couple—known for their reality show, Run’s House—trade chapters on what makes their “Old School” style of marriage successful. Joseph, who was previously married and a father of three, began dating Justine when he was in his 20s; they remained celibate for two years until they married in 1994 and had three children together, one of whom they adopted. Their relationship, they explain, is based upon love for each other and love of God; many chapters begin with biblical quotes (Rev Run is an ordained Pentecostal minister), and the authors acknowledge that not every reader will be a “believer.” The couple share amusing anecdotes (Rev tells of forcing himself to go to Hooters to satisfy his pregnant wife’s chicken wing craving), but their declarations of mutual admiration can be overly sentimental (Justine includes a treacly love poem to Rev). The traditional values the authors espouse will appeal to young couples working to remain true to their wedding vows. (Jan.)