This
practical book of tips, solutions and exercises was born of a writer's angst:
how to present material in a way that was appealing to bookstore audiences,
flexible enough to use in non-traditional venues, and dramatic enough to keep
any audience awake and eager to buy. Adapting the tools actors use to a writer's
particular needs cured the angst and made readings profitable and fun.
Authors
are everywhere these days, pitching their books in bookstores, yes, but also at
libraries, in department stores, at book fairs, on local and public radio, on
every TV interview show from local access to “Oprah” and “The Daily Show with
Jon Stewart”.
As a result of this greater exposure, audiences are expecting a greater level of
performance. They want you to make a presentation. They want a
Show. You can't just stand up there and read. You must bring
something extra to the event - some special information or connection.
Your audience wants you to be comfortable, and fluent. But, you
must engage them from the very start.
A
great majority of books on presentation skills are aimed at business people and
designed for meetings. Most books on book promotion mention readings, but
do not suggest how to construct one, or how to combat stage fright. Most
books on voice development and characterization are aimed at actors and don't
say anything about closing the sale. This book is the first that combines
the experiences and skills of a stage, film and television actor, radio
personality and acting coach with those of a published author with more than a
decade of experience organizing writers conferences. The information
gathered has been enriched with impressions collected from bookstore owners,
librarians, writers, publicists and publishers.
