I just finished reading Confessions of a Public Speaker, it is a very personal and practical look at public speaking. I give about 20 public talks a year not including another 30 to 60 in class lectures. I wish I had read a book like this before I started public speaking. This book is filled with practical advice and real insights into what it means to be an orator. I strongly recommend this book to anyone that gives public talks. Here is a longer video review:

Quick review note:

  • very strong behind the scenes look at the world of public speaking
  • this book has one must Chapter 4 the Science of not boring people, chapter 6!
  • the book focus on practical advice
  • learn by example, watch the best TED talks like Wade Davis one of my heroes, steal their techniques

Grade: 3.6 out of 4

Recommended for anyone that gives more then 2 public talks a year, this include teachers.

As a Bonus: one of Scott’s talks on the myths of  innovation:

This is one of Scott’s best talk it is very interactive given the group size and uses several techniques he talks about in the book.

Disclosure: My wife Sarah Davies and I were interviewed when Scott was writing the book. Scott is also a friend from the local Seattle tech scene.