Use Drama as a Tool to Give Dynamic Readings Anywhere

Paul Lerner, author
Lerner's Consumer Guide to Health Care:
How to Get the Best Health Care for Less

(as seen on a 5-part series on NBC's “Today Show”)

Bharti Kirchner, author Shiva Dancing,
Sharmila's Book, Darjeeling, Pastries

Savvy writers know if they want a book to sell, they must sell it themselves through store visits, signings, readings. In my leadership role in a large writers organization, I've seen countless writers flub appearances, and I've suffered through far too many disappointing readings. Every writer needs this book. It tells you how to sell yourself to sell your books.

Al Sampson, President, Seattle Institute of Media Arts

Peter Kahle has found the cure for the common reading.  He knows how to make his own writing come alive when read aloud and now in Naked at the Podium he shares his secrets with his fellow writers. This is a must-read for any author who wants to sell more books.

Gary Boynton, true crime writer/teacher

Co-author,Nutrition: A Balanced Plan for Health, Longevity and Well-Being

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.