Review: Comforting.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 01 14, 2014
Joanna had me in tears within the first few chapters. I finally realized that, no, I am not a freak of nature for wanting to retreat into hole at the mere sight of a crowd--I am an introvert, and it's natural to feel the way I do. You definitely have to "name it to tame it" as public speaker, Clare Edwards, mentions in Part 4, where Joanna includes a few interview transcripts of other professionals in her field.I have never had the courage to speak publicly. Nor do I really have the desire to become a professional public speaker, but this book definitely made me realize that if I'm put in the situation where I do have to speak publicly, there are ways to handle it, without falling in the emotional deep end. I have always been afraid of public speaking opportunities. And I always say to myself, that I'll just turn them down. I can't hack it. But this book has made me rethink this knee-jerk reaction of mine.If you're someone who actually wants to break into public speaking professionally, this book also contains practical advice, from dealing with the technical aspects a speaker must consider, to controlling hagglers in the audience.If you need the know-how, this book will give it to you. But it's not just a know-how book. Joanna writes from personal experience in a very friendly and genuine manner--it feels like you're conversing in her very own lounge room. That's what I love most about this book. She's kind, accessible, and authentic. That is comforting for an introvert like me. I really felt like she was on my side, and that I am not the only one facing these fears. In fact, there are more out there like me than I thought.Highly recommend.*Note: I received this as a free review copy , but this has had no influence on my opinion.