Confessions of a Public Speaker by Scott Berkun

What I like best: This book is for ANYBODY who has to speak in front of people - teachers, managers, coaches, or actual public speakers - doesn't matter. Like Berkun says, "as superficial as public speaking can seem, history bears out that people with clear ideas and strong points are the ones we remember." He makes you realize even the most experienced get nervous and if they are not they're probably lying. He delights with humor and humility as he tells his most embarrassing speaking moments - quite a few actually, ha. He teaches valuable lessons like how to work a tough room, what to do when things go BAD, the power of silence, and how to cure a case of the butterflies - the worst! Tony Hsieh, CEO Zappos, said "Scott Berkun tells it like it is. Whether you're speaking to 10 people or 1000, you will gain insights to take your presentation skills to the next level. It's a rare book that will make you think AND laugh." I thought he was spot on. As a bonus it's right in my wheelhouse at 240 pages - love that length - just enough. Always leave them wanting more, right?

Best Quote: "We are always performing. Anytime you open your mouth and expect someone to listen, you are behaving differently than you would if you were alone. Admitting this doesn't make you a phony - it makes you honest. We are social creatures who behave differently to fit into different social situations."