HOW TO MAKE A SPEECH

A practical, succinct self-help book on speech-making. Allen knows the game and has some intelligent, straightforward things to say about the art. He knows the pitfalls and is adept at showing you how to avoid them. You could pay a consultant a large fee for the sensible information Allen herein provides. The comedian and author gets to the heart of the matter quickly. Are you terrified of facing an audience? Do you mumble, fidget, ramble? Then this book is for you. The novice has plenty to work with here, and even a wizened veteran of the lecture circuit could pick up a few helpful hints. In a logical progression, Allen takes us through writing, rehearsing and delivering a speech, as well as the use of humor, fact, emotions, digressions and much else besides. He is deft at interspersing pertinent anecdotes and personal experiences, some amusing, but all relevant. He has a profound respect for the English language and is clearly a man who believes in adequate preparation. Most of all, this book is written by a kindly and experienced man who has an instinct for the torments and problems of the average speaker. He is like a coach who is always pressing you to do your best, but supportive when you stumble. This man knows what he's up to, as this helpful work amply proves.