best book for presentation

16 public speaking books you need to read

• James Haynes
• August 12, 2022

Table of Contents

Introduction.

Starting a speaking business is exhilarating and rewarding… and very stressful. Being a public speaker isn’t easy, and if you’re like most people you’ve probably looked for public speaking tips to help you become a better speaker.

These 16 public speaking books — now updated in 2024 with four new resources! — listed below can help you learn how to become a public speaker, how to improve your public speaking skills, and how to develop a talk for an audience. Books on public speaking are plentiful, but these ones have stood out, some over decades, as great guides and resources for your public speaking career.

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Want to learn how to become a better public speaker? Read on for 16 public speaking books that you need to read. (Book descriptions from Amazon)

1. The Successful Speaker by Grant Baldwin (2020)

We’d be remiss not to mention this one! Do you have a message you want to get out into the world? Have you ever dreamed of speaking for a living? Is there something you have to say, but you just aren’t sure what to do next? The Successful Speaker is a proven, easy-to-follow guide to helping you do just that.

Whether you want to speak at your next board meeting or community gathering, start making some extra money on the side, or become a full-time professional speaker, Grant Baldwin knows how to get you from here to there. Why? Because he’s done it himself and has coached over 2,000 speakers.

In The Successful Speaker, you will learn the five-step road map to start and scale a speaking business from the ground up, including

– how to hone your message and know exactly who it’s for – the preparation process to help your next speech move an audience to action – what it takes to establish yourself as an in-demand expert – practical steps to finding and booking paid speaking gigs – how to know when it’s time to grow your impact and income

In each chapter, you will get specific action steps and case studies from professional speakers to put you on the fast track to booking gigs, getting paid, and building your speaking platform.

2. How to Develop Self-Confidence and Influence People by Public Speaking by Dale Carnegie (1976)

Drawing on Dale Carnegie’s years of experience as a business trainer, this book will show you how to overcome the natural fear of public speaking , to become a successful speaker, and even learn to enjoy it.

His invaluable advice includes ways to:

-Develop poise -Gain self-confidence -Improve your memory -Make your meaning clear -Begin and end a presentation effectively

Interested in going deeper in the mechanics of how to give a talk? Here are 25 tips to help you become a better speaker.

3. Ted Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking by Chris Anderson (2017)

Since taking over leadership of TED in 2001, Chris Anderson has worked with all the TED speakers who have inspired us the most. In this book, he shares insights from such favorites as Sir Ken Robinson, Salman Khan, Monica Lewinsky, and more— everything from how to craft your talk’s content to how you can be most effective on stage.

Want to learn more about TED Talks? Check out our blog post on how to get and give a TED Talk here!

4. How to Tell a Story: The Essential Guide to Memorable Storytelling (2022)

Over the past twenty-five years, the directors of The Moth have worked with people from all walks of life—including astronauts, hairdressers, rock stars, a retired pickpocket, high school students, and Nobel Prize winners—to develop true personal stories that have moved and delighted live audiences and listeners of The Moth’s Peabody Award–winning radio hour and podcast. A leader in the modern storytelling movement, The Moth inspires thousands of people around the globe to share their stories each year.

Now, with  How to Tell a Story , The Moth will help you learn how to uncover and craft your own unique stories, like Moth storytellers Mike Birbiglia, Rosanne Cash, Hasan Minhaj, Betty Reid Soskin, John Turturro, and more.

Whether your goal is to make it to the Moth stage, deliver the perfect wedding toast, wow clients at a business dinner, give a moving eulogy , ace a job interview, be a hit at parties, change the world, or simply connect more deeply to those around you, stories are essential.

Wondering how do you tell stories that stick long after you’ve finished speaking? Have a listen to our podcast on how to tell stories that stick with Kindra Hall.

5. How to Win an Argument: An Ancient Guide to the Art of Persuasion by James May (2016)

6. speak with no fear by mike acker (2019).

It can easily seem like everyone is a gifted speaker when you watch TED talks or compare yourself to skilled co-workers giving presentations. But you don’t have to get caught up in the costly comparison trap. Instead, you can take action to improve your ability and to overcome your fear.

Through this book  you will learn 7 strategies  you can begin today. These strategies will give you a new perspective, they will prepare you, and they will give you actions to practice. As you implement these strategies, your fear will begin to fade.

THE SEVEN STRATEGIES 1. Uncover & Clean the Wound 2. Imagine the Worst 3. You Be You 4. Speak to One 5. It’s Not About You 6. Channel The Power 7. Be in the Moment

Are you struggling to develop a stage presence? Check out this article on how to overcome fear of public speaking.

7. Win Every Argument: The Art of Debating, Persuading, and Public Speaking by Mehdi Hasan (2023)

Win Every Argument shows how anyone can communicate with confidence, rise above the tit for tats on social media, and triumph in a successful and productive debate in the real world.

Arguments are everywhere―and especially given the fierce debates we’re all embroiled in today, everyone wants to win. In this riveting guide to the art of argument and rhetoric, Hasan shows you how. As a journalist, anchor, and interviewer who has clashed with politicians, generals, spy chiefs, and celebrities from across the world, Hasan reveals his tricks of the trade for the first time.

Whether you are making a presentation at work or debating current political issues with a friend, Mehdi Hasan will teach you how to sharpen your speaking skills to make the winning case.

8. How Your Story Sets You Free by Heather Box and Julian Mocine-McQueen (2019)

Everyone has a story to tell. Sharing that story can change you, your community, or even the world. But how do you start?

Discover the tools to unlock your truth and share it with the world: Storytelling coaches Heather Box and Julian Mocine-McQueen reveal how to embrace the power of personal storytelling in a series of easy steps. You’ll learn how to share your experiences and invaluable knowledge with the people who need it most, whether it be in a blog post, a motivational speech, or just a conversation with a loved one. How Your Story Sets You Free is the path to finding the spark that ignites the fire and reminds you just how much your story matters.

Personal storytelling is insanely powerful when done well. For more tips here, check out this new podcast episode with Ravi Rajani on how to create and share powerful stories!

9. How to Speak, How to Listen by Mortimer J. Adler (1983)

With over half a million copies in print of his classic How to Read a Book  in print, intellectual, philosopher, and academic Mortimer J. Adler set out to write an accompanying volume on speaking and listening, offering the impressive depth of knowledge and accessible panache that distinguished his first book.

In  How to Speak, How to Listen , Adler explains the fundamental principles of communicating through speech, with sections on such specialized presentations as the sales talk, the lecture, and question-and-answer sessions and advice on effective listening and learning by discussion.

10. Resonate: Present Visual Stories that Transform Audiences by Nancy Duarte (2010)

Presentations are meant to inform, inspire, and persuade audiences. So why then do so many audiences leave feeling like they’ve wasted their time? All too often, presentations don’t resonate with the audience and move them to transformative action.

Nancy Duarte created the slides in Al Gore’s Oscar winning  An Inconvenient Truth. In this book, she unpacks how to apply visual media to your talk. Her book Resonate helps you make a strong connection with your audience and lead them to purposeful action. The author’s approach is simple: building a presentation today is a bit like writing a documentary. Using this approach, you’ll convey your content with passion, persuasion, and impact.

11. The Public Speaking Bible: A Survival Guide for Standing on Stage by Marcus Alexander (2020)

The Public Speaking Bible; a Survival Guide for Standing on Stage is a depository of essential speaker’s knowledge designed to further your career whether you aim to be a full time speaker, undertake management roles or simply wish to improve your voice and stage presence. All the tips within come via the author and guest performers, adding up to a combined three hundred years of essential speakers’ know-how.

Within this bible:

Technical advice: how to effortlessly project your voice, audience manipulation, crowd control, body language, hand gestures and more.

Additionally: a frank approach for overcoming stage fright, a foolproof recipe for memorising a speech, how to overcome a sore throat and using the physics of sound to your advantage.

Business advice: how to price your speech, approaching agencies, talking overseas, understanding unique selling points, the most complete list of global public speakers’ agencies and more.

12. How To Talk To Anybody :14 Speaking Techniques To Instantly Connect With Anyone by Ryan Harrison (2022)

How many opportunities, relationships, and experiences have you missed out on because you didn’t know how to talk to people with confidence and skill?

Well, from now on, you will know exactly what to say and how to say it in a way that makes people open their eyes with surprise and delight as you talk. You’ll capture the attention of everyone you engage with. Your words will have impact and influence, and your opinion will make a difference.

The author – Ryan Harrison – has spent 30 years studying linguistics and communication and has distilled his knowledge into these 3 books.

13. Confessions of a Public Speaker by Scott Berkun (2009)

In this hilarious and highly practical book, author and professional speaker Scott Berkun reveals the techniques behind what great communicators do, and shows how anyone can learn to use them well. For managers and teachers — and anyone else who talks and expects someone to listen —  Confessions of a Public Speaker  provides an insider’s perspective on how to effectively present ideas to anyone. It’s a unique, entertaining, and instructional romp through the embarrassments and triumphs Scott has experienced over 15 years of speaking to crowds of all sizes.

With lively lessons and surprising confessions, you’ll get new insights into the art of persuasion — as well as teaching, learning, and performance — directly from a master of the trade.

Highlights include:

• Berkun’s hard-won and simple philosophy , culled from years of lectures, teaching courses, and hours of appearances on NPR, MSNBC, and CNBC
• Practical advice , including how to work a tough room, the science of not boring people, how to survive the attack of the butterflies, and what to do when things go wrong
• The inside scoop  on who earns $30,000 for a one-hour lecture and why
• The worst — and funniest — disaster stories  you’ve ever heard (plus countermoves you can use)

Filled with humorous and illuminating stories of thrilling performances and real-life disasters,  Confessions of a Public Speaker is inspirational, devastatingly honest, and a blast to read.

14. Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds by Carmine Gallo (2015)

Public speaking coach and bestselling author Carmine Gallo has broken down hundreds of TED talks and interviewed the most popular TED presenters to reveal the nine secrets of all successful TED presentations. Gallo’s step-by-step method makes it possible for anyone to deliver a presentation that is engaging, persuasive, and memorable.

Many people have a fear of public speaking or are insecure about their ability to give a TED-worthy presentation. Carmine Gallo’s top 10  Wall Street Journal  Bestseller  Talk Like TED will give them the tools to communicate the ideas that matter most to them, the skill to win over hearts and minds, and the confidence to deliver the talk of their lives.

15. Speak Like Churchill, Stand Like Lincoln by James Hume (2002)

Ever wish you could captivate your boardroom with the opening line of your presentation, like Winston Churchill in his most memorable speeches? Or want to command attention by looming larger than life before your audience, much like Abraham Lincoln when, standing erect and wearing a top hat, he towered over seven feet? Now, you can master presentation skills, wow your audience, and shoot up the corporate ladder by unlocking the secrets of history’s greatest speakers.

Author, historian, and world-renowned speaker James C. Humes—who wrote speeches for five American presidents—shows you how great leaders through the ages used simple yet incredibly effective tricks to speak, persuade, and win throngs of fans and followers. Inside, you’ll discover how Napoleon Bonaparte mastered the use of the pregnant pause to grab attention, how Lady Margaret Thatcher punctuated her most serious speeches with the use of subtle props, how Ronald Reagan could win even the most hostile crowd with carefully timed wit, and much, much more.

16. Unleash the Power of Storytelling: Win Hearts, Change Minds, Get Results by Rob Biesenbach (2018)

Unleash the Power of Storytelling offers a practical roadmap to crafting and delivering more powerful, persuasive stories that you can use to get more of what you want out of your career and your life.

Taking a fun, no-nonsense approach, Unleash the Power of Storytelling will teach you:

•The hard science behind why stories work •A simple three-part structure for telling any story •The role of emotion in fueling great stories •How to cut the clutter and focus your story on the essentials •How and where to find great stories •Tips for delivering your stories in the most effective way possible

Want to learn how to create your own underdog Rocky story? Have a listen to our podcast with Clint Pulver, who used his story to build powerful relationships with speakers he admires and respects, and how he created his own board of directors as a result.

Ready to Get Your First (Or Next) Paid Speaking Gig?

Download our free 26-page guide and get the 14 exact steps you can follow to book a paid speaking gig right now!

Are 16 books not enough for you? Check out our podcast archive for more tips and lessons on public speaking. Still want more? Satiate your desire to learn more about public speaking by checking out The Speaker Lab blog here.  Happy reading!

• Last Updated: March 6, 2024

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Top 35 Presentation Books: Expert Ratings

Some are bad. Some are good. And some are outstanding!

We want to help you find the outstanding books — books which truly help you build your presentation skills . That’s why we publish book reviews on Six Minutes .

So, when Gonzalo Álvarez invited me to join in a survey of experts to rate a collection of the best presentation books, I was happy to participate.

This article reports the results of this survey: the top 35 books on presentations .

Analysis and Participants

From the analysis summary:

We wondered: “What do the top presentation experts in the world read?” They told us. We asked 7 of the top presentation experts in the world to tell us what books most inspired them to be better presenters. Seven judges, including four published authors, provided feedback to a list of books. We present, for your consideration, their ranked list of the top 35 presentation books.

• Survey analysis was performed by Gonzalo Álvarez and Bruce Gabrielle. Their methodology and full results can be found in the embedded document later in this article. Thanks to both of them for leading this effort!
• Nancy Duarte
• Bruce Gabrielle
• Dr. Michael Alley
• Gonzalo Alvarez
• Nolan Haims
• Andrew Dlugan  (me)

Summary of the Results

• It’s very difficult to quantitatively compare speaking books, particularly when those books excel in very different ways.
• Books were scored according to their presentation focus along several criteria (content, structure, visual design, delivery). The total of the individual scores was used to rank the books overall.
• These totals can be misleading as they reward books with a very broad focus (books that touch on many speaking skills), and penalize books with a narrow focus. As an example, books like Made to Stick or The Story Factor  (which are both excellent books which focus almost entirely on storytelling) receive low overall scores.
• Each of these two groups are listed in the tables below.
• The “Amazon Rating” column in the tables below gives the “stars” ranking and the number of reader reviews.
• Most books (27 out of 35) are priced between $14 and $28 . Four books are less than $14, and one book is over $28. Three books are no longer carried by amazon, so no price is given.
• Links to these reviews are given in the tables below.
• Most of the remaining 21 books are on my personal wishlist, so it’s quite likely you’ll be seeing reviews for some of them in the future.

Books with a Content/Delivery Focus

Books with a Focus on Visuals

The Full Ratings Data

If you do not see the embedded document below, please visit the web version of this article .

How about you? Which are your favorites?

How many of these 35 have you read? Which ones do you like most? Why? Which book(s) would you add to the list?

Please share in the comments . I’d love to hear from you.

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14 comments.

The Art of the Explanation is my favorite. It’s written by Lee LeFever. He’s got steps on how to explain complicated things and ideas so NO ONE in the audience gets left behind.

Thanks Jaime.

I love Lee LeFever’s video explanations, and am curious to read his book.

2 Done; 33 to go. Wonderful timing. I was just looking for books to improve on my presentation skills. Andrew, you just handed over me the magic wand. 🙂

Thanks Andrew. Look forward to completing these.

Oh wow, that’s quite the list. I’ll be going over this and determining which ones I need to read NOW and which ones I’ll save for later. Thanks for taking the time to put together such a great list.

The one book I have never seen written is how to develop presentations for others to give. Many times I am faced with developing a corporate or sales presentation for the sales team to give to prospects – what are the best practices for this kind of presentation?

Thank you for providing an extremely useful list. However, it’s hard for anyone to keep up with what else those authors have been doing since the listed books were published. Check before you buy. For example, Stephen M. Kosslyn’s 2010 book Better PowerPoint: Quick Fixes Based on How Your Audience Thinks might be a better choice than the 2007 Clear and to the Point. Also, this year Dave Paradi published Present It So They Get It . I liked his The Visual Slide Revolution enough to post a review of it .

I’d add Dona M. Wong’s The Wall Street Journal Guide to Information Graphics to the list of books about visuals. I reviewed it briefly here .

Thanks for the detailed comments, Richard. I’ll have to check out those books.

considero una parte esencial de la vida el leer y leer pero el decidir cual o cuales libros son los mejores es dificil. por lo que agradezco esta presentacion seis minutos un momento de informacion que engrandece nuestro pensamiento. gracias

Since i am a scientist, my favorite is the craft of scientific presentation. I guess this one was intended for presenting scientific data and conference. For design, I prefer The non designer design book. For story telling, confessions of a public speaker is excellence. I read several other book, like the zen etc, but in my opinion they are for business-type presentation

a great list, but you left out a GEM. Gail Larsen’s Transformational Speaking . Truly, the best speaking book I’ve read.

MUST- ADD ALERT! Transformational Speaking , by Gail Larsen. This book is a comprehensive and unique guide to speaking with the most authentic voice we can bring forth. Gail’s teachings have not only helped me to become a better speaker, but have also helped me name and claim personal attributes that make me a better artist, workshop leader, friend, and mother. As former leader of the National Speaker’s Association, Gail knows the speaking world well. She can give a great speech any day at any time; but what interests her is the special ability we each possess to connect with people on a deeper level, through storytelling. In her book, Gail makes the case that if we don’t honor our unique offerings by sharing them, they will be lost to the world forever. She goes on to explain that this is a critical time in our world, a time we need everyone. Calling all voices! Please add this truly transformational gift to the world to your list of bests. I have never read a book that has changed my life more!

I think this is a great list you and your team have compliled. One I would add would be Jeremy Donovon’s How To Deliver A TED Talk which is a easy read that takes the best Ted Talks and dissects them.

I just read your ratings on the 35 presentation books and I can see I have a lot of reading a head of me.

I’m writing to you to ask if you would like to write a guest blog for our website? In return we can give you access to our PowerPoint Templates database and give you some room to promote your own product.

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Business School Presenting – Especially Powerful Books for 2013! — Jan 17th, 2013

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• Majora Carter (TED, 2006) Energy, Passion, Speaking Rate
• Hans Rosling (TED, 2006) 6 Techniques to Present Data
• J.A. Gamache (Toastmasters, 2007) Gestures, Prop, Writing
• Steve Jobs (Stanford, 2005) Figures of speech, rule of three
• Al Gore (TED, 2006) Humor, audience interaction
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• By Illiya Vjestica
• - September 30, 2020

What are the Must-Read Essential Presentation Books?

We have put together, six of the best must-read presentation books on everything presenting and PowerPoint design. We began our own journey from these presentation books, and they can teach you too.

We’ve got to hand it to the internet. 

It teaches us a lot of things. On YouTube alone, there are tutorials for everything from doing eerily realistic special effects makeup to building a house. Elsewhere – at just a click of your mouse – you can find forums and websites full of insights across every skill imaginable. 

But there’s some knowledge you can only get from books. 

Books have a wealth of knowledge available to you, the feeling of turning the pages in your hand can’t be beaten. 

You can access specific interviews with leading figures in your industry. Learn tips and methodology that have been refined over decades – compiled precisely in the right order, in clear chapters, to help you digest it all. 

With that in mind, we’re always on the lookout for the best presentation books on presenting and presentation design. 

There are some brilliant titles out there that’ll help you to boost your presentation design and public speaking skills to a staggering degree – giving you an edge over your competitors.

The books we have selected will help you to deliver talks that capture hearts as well as minds. 

Here are our six must-read presentation books we’d recommend you add to your home library.

1. Talk Like TED: The 9 Public Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds, Carmine Gallo

In this book, Carmine Gallo puts forward a straightforward step-by-step method for anyone to deliver a presentation that is engaging, persuasive, and most importantly, memorable.

If you’re familiar with us at The Presentation Designer, you’ll already know we’ve created slides for TED talks before. They’re the gold standard when it comes to public speaking… and with this book, you can learn all the tricks of the trade from some of the best TED presenters around. 

From interviews with popular TED speakers to insights on how to design and deliver your presentation, this handy guide will help you to present like a pro. Are you ready to knock your audience’s socks off?

2. Presentation Zen Design: A simple visual approach to presenting in today’s world, Garr Reynolds

There’s probably nobody better qualified to give presentation advice than Garr Reynolds (other than us, of course!). 

A best-selling author and popular speaker, he’s got wisdom on tap when it comes to delivering terrific talks – and nailing every element of your presentation design. I’ve read every single book Garr has published.

Presentation Zen Design is the book I would recommend to anyone thinking about creating more effective presentation slides.

Throughout, you’ll find simple design principles and techniques that are guaranteed to enhance your presentations. In Garr’s book you will also gain an insight into Japanese Zen and how you can apply some of its principles to improve engagement with your audience.

It doesn’t matter how smart and a detailed a slide design can be, Garr’s methods prove that ‘keeping it simple is best’.  

Check out his tips on the best ways to use colour, data, mixed mediums (including video) and more to create simple, synergistic and stunning presentations. Check it out. 

3. slide:ology: The Art and Science of Creating Great Presentations: The Art and Science of Presentation Design, Nancy Duarte

In slide:ology, communications expert Nancy Duarte delivers innovative advice around “visual thinking” – helping your audience to understand your key messages through imagery. 

Connect with specific experts, create easy-to-understand graphics and use the power of art to persuade. Using her intriguing insights and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to master the craft of presenting. 

There are plenty of case studies to refer too, which demonstrate how some of the world’s leading brands have used Duarte’s visual theories and methods to achieve their goals. 

Want to learn how to create slides an audience can process? 

Then, this is the book for you, it’s difficult not to also recommend ‘Resonate’, her follow-up, as another must-read book.

Her second book will take your learning further to help you create better stories for your presentation and develop supporting visuals that fit your narrative.

Thank you, Nancy! You have taught me so much! 

4. Confessions of a Public Speaker, Scott Berkun 

Stage fright. Bored audiences. Forgetting your lines. Even the most confident of us have fears when it comes to giving presentations. Fortunately, author and public speaking specialist Scott Berkun is sympathetic to that – and between his practical advice and hilarious, insightful anecdotes, Scott teaches you how to present perfectly… without the panic element. Sounds good to us. 

Through his years of experience speaking to crowds of all different sizes, you’ll gain an insight to:

• How to work a tough audience
• The science of not boring people to sleep
• How to survive the attack of nerves or worry
• What to do when things go wrong

5. Show and Tell: How Everybody Can Make Extraordinary Presentations, Dan Roam

There are two decades worth of presentation wisdom in Dan Roam’s  Show and Tell . His theory is that we’re all natural-born storytellers.

In his book ‘Show and Tell’ he guides our focus on unlocking our innate presenting abilities in a fun, engaging and informative way. Through fundamental truths (including our personal favourite: “passion = self-confidence”), hand-drawn pictures and simple-to-remember tips, you’ll find a fantastic foundation for both your presentation design and delivery.

There’s a lot of informative content about telling better stories in our presentation and how to structure them to make them engaging. 

Cheers, Dan.

6. Interaction of Color, Josef Albers

At The Presentation Designer, we’re serious when it comes to harnessing the power of colour in presentation design. It’s a good thing, too, as colour theory and psychology play massive roles in the potential impact of your slides. 

Josef Albers’ famous book,  Interaction of Colour , is testament to that fact: a comprehensive guide on the principles of colour theory that’s been in circulation since the 60s. 

Age certainly equals wisdom, here, because Albers’ in-depth manual – which discusses everything from colour relativity to the illusion of transparency – is chockablock with all the information you’ll ever need to know about using colour. You’ll be the Picasso of presentations in no time. 

I’ve included this video from painter Albert van der Zwart who explains the concepts around Josef Albers principles of colour theory well.

There you go, I hope you’ve enjoyed our recommended presentation books. Let us know any you think we’ve missed in the comments.

Other Recommend Reading:

If you have enjoyed this post we’ve also included some helpful links to our blog posts that you might find useful:

• 5 PowerPoint Tips You Should Know
• How to Improve Presentation Retention Rates
• How to Overcome Your Fear of Public Speaking
• 5 Classic Presentation Fonts

Don’t want to go it alone? We’ve got a  brilliant process in place  to help you build your presentation… and we’ll give you a free quotation, too. Come say hi!

Illiya Vjestica

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100 Best Presentation Books of All Time

We've researched and ranked the best presentation books in the world, based on recommendations from world experts, sales data, and millions of reader ratings. Learn more

Presentation Zen

Simple Ideas on Presentation Design and Delivery

Garr Reynolds | 5.00

See more recommendations for this book...

Made to Stick

Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die

Chip Heath, Dan Heath | 4.97

Cristian-Dragos Baciu I highly recommend all the books written by the Heath brothers, especially Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive And Others Die. This one's a must-read for marketers. The reason I enjoyed their work so much is because they offer real-life stories and insights that makes it so much easier for the reader to imprint that information in his mind (Source)

Tudor Mihailescu First thing first, finance people need to be decent communicators, ideally awesome communicators. There is an art in building a case or in delivering a presentation and we need to treat this step as seriously as we have treated the other steps. I do believe this is a top priority for an aspiring or practicing CFO - There are plenty of books on this topic, I would recommend the works of Chip and... (Source)

Steve Lance Made to Stick is about what makes a message memorable. Why is it that we can all say ‘Call me Ishmael’ and remember this opening line to Moby Dick, and yet none of us can say the second sentence. Made to Stick is a thoughtful, fact-based empirical study about this idea of stickiness. (Source)

The Psychology of Persuasion

Robert B. Cialdini | 4.96

Charles T. Munger Robert Cialdini has had a greater impact on my thinking on this topic than any other scientist. (Source)

Dan Ariely It covers a range of ways in which we end up doing things, and how we don’t understand why we’re doing them. (Source)

Max Levchin [Max Levchin recommended this book as an answer to "What business books would you advise young entrepreneurs read?"] (Source)

slide:ology

The Art and Science of Creating Great Presentations

Nancy Duarte | 4.94

Crucial Conversations

Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High

RON MCMILLAN JOSEPH GRENNY, AL SWITZLER, KERRY PATTERSON | 4.75

Max Levchin A now-venerable guide to having tough conversations in a way that engages the debaters. (Source)

Deke Bridges Picked up this great book @Powells to read. Better conversation and listening enables you to get deeper into subjects at hand. When talking with people, this makes your communication skills a very powerful tool. Always be learning. #growth #education #leadership https://t.co/r0ujX9IPqh (Source)

Present Visual Stories that Transform Audiences

Nancy Duarte | 4.75

Brian Burkhart But the book which really hit home was “Resonate: Present Visual Stories that Transform Audiences,” by Nancy Duarte. It’s interesting, I didn’t agree with her methodology or like much of what I read. It was too complex and not realistic for people to use in everyday life. That said, it did help confirm to me that I was onto something. It was a different kind of validation than Godin—that the... (Source)

Start with Why

How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action

Simon Sinek | 4.66

Tony Robbins The basis of this book is so important to anyone looking to increase their influence, profits or impact. People won't truly buy into a product, service, movement, or idea until they understand the WHY behind it. When you start with the why, everything else falls into place. This book is so impactful, I consider it required reading. (Source)

Richard Branson Today is World Book Day, a wonderful opportunity to address this #ChallengeRichard sent in by Mike Gonzalez of New Jersey: Make a list of your top 65 books to read in a lifetime. (Source)

Tony Hsieh Over the years he’s [] recommended well over 20 business books — including his own, the 2010 bestseller Delivering Happiness and you can always find what he’s currently reading atop his cluttered desk. Start with Why is amogst those titles. (Source)

The official TED guide to public speaking

Howard Hughes | 4.65

Chris Anderson In Apollo week, a great book recommendation: this more than a story of a computer--it's about the first shot in the man vs machine battles (should astronauts be pilots or "spam in a can"?) that foreshadowed today's debates about drones & self driving cars https://t.co/CidYughKHz (Source)

Talk Like TED

The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds

Carmine Gallo | 4.63

Emma Wedekind @yannln I love that book! (Source)

Shaen Yeo In the book Talk like TED, there were a few suggestions on how to make my speech better. I tweaked the way I speak using the advice, and produced a speech like never before. I had many people coming up to shake my hands and offer me name cards! (Source)

Radu Marcusu A book that most recently made a difference for me was Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds. My IMWorld speech this year benefited tremendously from Carmine Gallo's framing of the nine secrets of all time successful TED presentations. I believe Gallo's step-by-step method makes it possible for anyone to sell their ideas persuasively when delivering a presentation.... (Source)

Walter Isaacson | 4.61

Elon Musk Quite interesting. (Source)

Bill Gates [On Bill Gates's reading list in 2012.] (Source)

Gary Vaynerchuk I've read 3 business books in my life. If you call [this book] a business book. (Source)

Don't have time to read the top Presentation books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

• Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
• Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
• Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.

The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs

Carmine Gallo | 4.59

Jack H. M. Wong Question: What five books would you recommend to young people interested in your career path & why? Answer: Rich Dad Poor Dad - Robert Kiyosaki Second Chance - Robert Kiyosaki Why the Rich Are Getting Richer - Robert Kiyosaki The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs: How to Be Insanely Great in Front of Any Audience - Carmine Gallo The Little Voice Mastery - Blair Singer (Source)

Pitch Anything

An Innovative Method for Presenting, Persuading, and Winning the Deal

Oren Klaff | 4.59

Jeff Gibbard This book single-handedly changed my life. BY learning the principles of "Frame Control" I have had much greater success in sales, public speaking, and in managing my team. (Source)

Michael Herrmann Great book on pitching, and more generally, sales. Funny too. Has some ideas very reminiscent of Thinking Fast and Slow. (Source)

Presentation Zen Design

Simple Design Principles and Techniques to Enhance Your Presentations

Garr Reynolds | 4.59

Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook

How to Tell Your Story in a Noisy Social World

Robert T. Kiyosaki, Tim Wheeler, et al | 4.57

Marvin Liao My list would be (besides the ones I mentioned in answer to the previous question) both business & Fiction/Sci-Fi and ones I personally found helpful to myself. The business books explain just exactly how business, work & investing are in reality & how to think properly & differentiate yourself. On the non-business side, a mix of History & classic fiction to understand people, philosophy to make... (Source)

Bill Widmer In general, I recommend Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki to learn more about assets and liability and how to view money. (Source)

Sa El This book started everything for me and put me on a path to a rich mindset, it helped me understand that dreaming wasn't enough, you had to actually place that dream into reality if you ever want to achieve it. (Source)

Never Split the Difference

Chris Voss, Tahl Raz | 4.57

Dustin Moskovitz [Dustin Moskovitz recommended this book on Twitter.] (Source)

Daniel Pink Emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence without sacrificing deal-making power. From the pen of a former hostage negotiator—someone who couldn’t take no for an answer—which makes it fascinating reading. But it’s also eminently practical. In these pages, you will find the techniques for getting the deal you want. (Source)

Adam Grant eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'theceolibrary_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_6',164,'0','1'])); This book blew my mind. It’s a riveting read, full of instantly actionable advice—not just for high-stakes negotiations, but also for handling everyday conflicts at work and at home. (Source)

The Visual Display of Quantitative Information

Edward R. Tufte | 4.51

Michael Okuda Edward Tufte's classic book, The Visual Display of Quantitative Information is a fascinating, surprisingly readable treatise for anyone interested in infographics. When I hired artists for the Star Trek graphics dept, I sometimes asked them to read it.https://t.co/cK4GQqBDxp (Source)

The Non-Designer's Presentation Book

Principles for Effective Presentation Design

Robin Williams | 4.44

The Naked Presenter

Delivering Powerful Presentations with or Without Slides

Garr Reynolds | 4.43

Confessions of a Public Speaker

Scott Berkun | 4.43

Storytelling with Data

A Data Visualization Guide for Business Professionals

Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic | 4.43

Roger D. Peng It’s important to think in terms of what your audience needs, and what would be best for them among the many choices you could make when analysing data. (Source)

Envisioning Information

Edward R. Tufte | 4.37

Kevin Rose The master when it comes to taking complicated data and turning it into beautiful charts and graphs that are easy to understand. If you’re into graphic design, print design, web design, you name it, you’re going to get some really good information and how tos out of these books. He has a whole series of these books. (Source)

Where the Sidewalk Ends

The Poems and Drawings of Shel Silverstein

Shel Silverstein | 4.37

On Writing Well

The Classic Guide To Writing Nonfiction

William Zinsser | 4.37

Mark Manson I read a bunch of books on writing before I wrote my first book and the two that stuck with me were Stephen King’s book and “On Writing Well” by Zinsser (which is a bit on the technical side). (Source)

Tim O'Reilly On Writing Well, by William Zinsser. I wouldn't say this book influenced me, since my principles of writing were established long before I read it. However, it does capture many things that I believe about effective writing. (Source)

Derek Sivers Great blunt advice about writing better non-fiction. So inspiring. (Source)

Show and Tell

How Everybody Can Make Extraordinary Presentations

Dan Roam | 4.36

Nonviolent Communication

A Language of Life

Marshall B. Rosenberg, Deepak Chopra | 4.35

Satya Nadella Upon becoming CEO, Nadella confronted Microsoft’s legendarily combative culture by urging his new reports to read this book, which preaches the power of empathy, self-awareness, and authenticity in collaboration in the workplace, at home, and beyond. Like many of his favorites, it was first recommended to him by his wife, Anu: “I’m heavily influenced by the books she reads more than the books I... (Source)

Dustin Moskovitz Seek first to understand. (Source)

Esther Perel I think that this book is a classic for anyone who is thinking relationships. (Source)

Presenting to Win

The Art of Telling Your Story

Jerry Weissman | 4.32

The Back of the Napkin

Solving Problems and Selling Ideas with Pictures

Dan Roam | 4.31

HBR Guide to Persuasive Presentations

Nancy Duarte | 4.28

How to Deliver a Ted Talk

Secrets of the World's Most Inspiring Presentations, Revised and Expanded New Edition, with a Foreword by Richard St. John and an Afterword by Simon Sinek

Jeremey Donovan | 4.28

The Elements of Style

William Jr. Strunk | 4.27

Tobi Lütke [My] most frequently gifted book is [this book] because I like good writing. (Source)

Bill Nye This is my guide. I accept that I’ll never write anything as good as the introductory essay by [the author]. It’s brilliant. (Source)

Jennifer Rock If you are interested in writing and communication, start with reading and understanding the technical aspects of the craft: The Elements of Style. On Writing Well. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft. (Source)

Presentation Secrets

Do What You Never Thought Possible with Your Presentations

Alexei Kapterev | 4.26

Blah Blah Blah

What To Do When Words Don't Work

Dan Roam | 4.23

The Art of Explanation - Making Your Ideas, Products and Services Easier to Understand

Lee LeFever | 4.22

Everyone Communicates, Few Connect

What the Most Effective People Do Differently

John C. Maxwell | 4.22

The Writer's Journey

Mythic Structure for Writers

Christopher Vogler | 4.22

Darren Aronofsky It’s the Bible for screenwriters. I think it’s the best book on how to write a screenplay ever written. It helped me get through so many roadblocks as a writer. (Source)

Business Model Generation

A Handbook for Visionaries, Game Changers, and Challengers

Alexander Osterwalder and Yves Pigneu | 4.22

Kaci Lambe Kai This was a great book, because it opened up the idea of what a business model is supposed to be vs what it can be. It doesn't have to be a stuffy, boring document. (Source)

Alexandra Stroe [I'd recommend] The Lean Startup by Eric Ries, Business Model Generation by Alexander Osterwalder and Yves Pigneur and Zero to One by Peter Thiel when they are in the starting phase of a business that needs to validate its business model. (Source)

Ashley Hathaway I could probably name a dozen books here, but I’ll point out The Business Model Generation and Value Prop Design from Strategyzer. I steal from these constantly and are engrained in my work process. These books put into practice really taught me how to think. As soon as I saw that everything should have a foundation of empathy, what good user-testing looks like, how to test and iterate it changed... (Source)

Trees, maps, and theorems

Jean-Luc Doumont | 4.20

Beautiful Evidence

Edward R. Tufte | 4.20

The Pyramid Principle

Logical Writing, Thinking and Problem Solving

Barbara Minto | 4.18

Patricia Reed The Minto Pyramid Principle: For would-be consultants, a (very dry) book on how to write effectively for business. (Source)

Unfolding the Napkin

The Hands-On Method for Solving Complex Problems with Simple Pictures

Dan Roam | 4.18

Visual Meetings

How Graphics, Sticky Notes & Idea Mapping Can Transform Group Productivity

David Sibbet | 4.17

Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting

Robert McKee | 4.17

Bill Liao The human world occurs in language so best get good at it! (Source)

Culinary Artistry

Andrew Dornenburg and Karen Page | 4.17

Better Presentations

A Guide for Scholars, Researchers, and Wonks

Jonathan Schwabish | 4.17

The Sketchnote Handbook

The Illustrated Guide to Visual Note Taking

Mike Rohde | 4.16

Give Your Speech, Change the World

How To Move Your Audience to Action

Nick Morgan | 4.16

Indistractable

How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life

Nir Eyal | 4.15

Cal Newport Indistractable is a master class in understanding the root cause of distraction. Recommended for anyone looking to do more deep work. (Source)

Arianna Huffington This is such an important book. Indistractable is the best guide I’ve read for reclaiming our attention, our focus, and our lives. (Source)

Mark Manson Indistractable is the most practical and realistic approach to balancing technology with well-being. A must-read for anyone with a smartphone. (Source)

The Charisma Myth

How Anyone Can Master the Art and Science of Personal Magnetism

Olivia Cabane, Lisa Cordileone | 4.15

Marissa Mayer Proud of our friend and neighbor Olivia Fox Cabane - her book 'The Charisma Myth' launched today and is already #122 of all books on Amazon. It went into its second printing even before launch! (Source)

Laura Lang Olivia Fox Cabane offers hands-on advice and a practical guide to humanizing leaders without comprising integrity or authority. She focused on the ‘it’ factors that can make a real difference. (Source)

Dr. Monali Y. Desai Currently, my favorite business book is The Charisma Myth (Olivia Fox Cabane) because I feel it has so many small but impactful takeaways about improving how you communicate with others, I try to reread it once a year. (Source)

The Non-Designer's Design Book (Non Designer's Design Book)

Robin William | 4.14

Lead with a Story

A Guide to Crafting Business Narratives That Captivate, Convince, and Inspire

Paul Smith | 4.14

Beyond Bullet Points

Using Microsoft PowerPoint to Create Presentations that Inform, Motivate, and Inspire

Cliff Atkinson | 4.13

Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges

Amy Cuddy | 4.13

Ryan Foland Finished listening to Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest ... by @amyjccuddy via #Audible. Great book 👍👍 Want it? Get it free: https://t.co/Q0kbPqqJuF (Source)

Visual Thinking

Empowering People and Organisations through Visual Collaboration

Williemien Brand | 4.12

Walleye Presentation

#3 Core Techniques

In-Fisherman Staff | 4.12

Show Me the Numbers

Designing Tables and Graphs to Enlighten

Stephen Few | 4.11

The Art of the Pitch

Persuasion and Presentation Skills that Win Business

Peter Coughter | 4.11

Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised, 11th edition

Henry M. Robert III | 4.11

Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised In Brief

Henry M. III Robert | 4.11

The 45 Second Presentation That Will Change Your Life

Don Failla | 4.10

La Sociedad De Santafé Colonial

ENGELMANN ET AL. | 4.10

The Craft of Scientific Presentations

Critical Steps to Succeed and Critical Errors to Avoid

Michael Alley | 4.09

100 Things Every Presenter Needs to Know About People

Susan Weinschenk | 4.09

The Story Factor

Inspiration, Influence, and Persuasion through the Art of Storytelling

Annette Simmons, Doug Lipman | 4.08

Flip the Script

Getting People to Think Your Idea Is Their Idea

Oren Klaff | 4.07

Daymond John In Flip the Script, Oren Klaff gives readers powerful tools that will help them get what they want. Instead of trying to convince people to buy what you’re selling, his techniques will show you how to create an entirely different dynamic. A game changing read (Source)

Jonah Berger Flip the Script is the rare book that shows you how to increase your influence, at work and at home. Oren Klaff's methods are both intuitive and completely actionable. This book is loaded with real-world examples, some radical, some surprising, but all incredibly useful. (Source)

Perfect Pitch

The Art of Selling Ideas and Winning New Business

Jon Steel | 4.07

Bogdana Butnar I thought I might put my money where my mouth is. I keep whining that young people are not in touch with some essential books on advertising that have helped me shape the way I practise my trade today, but I never did anything about it. So I am starting here the ultimate books to read list. I will add to it as I get suggestions and as more good books get written. (Source)

Power Presenter

Jerry Weissman | 4.07

Speak With No Fear

Go from a nervous, nauseated, and sweaty speaker to an excited, energized, and passionate presenter

Mike Acker | 4.07

Good Charts

The HBR Guide to Making Smarter, More Persuasive Data Visualizations

Scott Berinato | 4.07

Presentation Now

Prepare a first rate presentation when you're short of time

Andrew Lighthear | 4.07

Storyworthy

Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life through the Power of Storytelling

Matthew Dicks, Dan Kennedy | 4.06

Do You Talk Funny?

7 Comedy Habits to Become a Better (and Funnier) Public Speaker

David Nihill | 4.06

Neal O'Gorman I found when reading a book from my friend David Nihill called "Do You Talk Funny?:7 Comedy Habits to Become a Better (and Funnier) Public Speaker" there were lots of learnings. Not just learnings, but actually simple things I've been able to put into practice when presenting. For example, I'm even more conscious of the rule of three, using stories and reconstructing sentences to leave the final... (Source)

Death by Meeting

A Leadership Fable...about Solving the Most Painful Problem in Business

Patrick Lencioni | 4.06

Css: The Definitive Guide

Visual Presentation for the Web

Eric A. Meyer and Estelle Weyl | 4.06

Just My Type

A Book About Fonts

Simon Garfield | 4.06

Marius Ciuchete Paun Question: What books would you recommend to young people interested in your career path? Answer: “Just My Type” by Simon Garfield “Thinking with Type” by Ellen Lupton “Don't Make Me Think” by Steve Krug “Geometry of Design” by Kimberly Elam “Grid Systems in Graphic Design” by Josef Müller-Brockmann “ReWork” by Jason Fried These titles should be a good start, I think. (Source)

The Functional Art

An Introduction to Information Graphics and Visualization

Alberto Cairo | 4.05

The Wall Street Journal Guide to Information Graphics

The Dos and Don'ts of Presenting Data, Facts, and Figures

Dona M. Wong | 4.05

Communication Skills

A Practical Guide to Improving Your Social Intelligence, Presentation, Persuasion and Public Speaking

Ian Tuhovsky and Wendell Wadsworth | 4.05

The Storyteller's Secret

From TED Speakers to Business Legends, Why Some Ideas Catch On and Others Don't

CARMINE GALLO | 4.05

Julia Enthoven Since Kapwing is still a very young company, The Storyteller’s Secret helps me think about how I can communicate the origin story of Kapwing to our users and other people. I’m enjoying both! (Source)

Craft Your Story, Build the Perfect Pitch Deck, and Launch the Venture of Your Dreams

Evan Baehr, Evan Loomis | 4.05

15 Minutes Including Q & A

A Plan to Save the World from Lousy Presentations

Joey Asher | 4.05

Storytelling Zen

The Art of Using the Power of Story to Create & Deliver Engaging Presentations

Garr Reynolds | 4.04

Evil by Design

Interaction Design to Lead Us Into Temptation

Chris Nodder | 4.04

101 Sample Write-Ups for Documenting Employee Performance Problems

A Guide to Progressive Discipline and Termination

Paul Falcone | 4.04

Ignite Change Through Speeches, Stories, Ceremonies and Symbols

Nancy Duarte, Patti Sanchez | 4.03

Let's Practice!

Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic | 4.02

I Can See You Naked

Ron Hoff | 4.02

TED Talks Storytelling

23 Storytelling Techniques from the Best TED Talks

Akash Karia, Matt Stone, et al | 4.02

The Big Book of Dashboards

Visualizing Your Data Using Real-World Business Scenarios

Steve Wexler, Jeffrey Shaffer, et al. | 4.02

The 3-Minute Rule

Say Less to Get More from Any Pitch or Presentation

Brant Pinvidic | 4.01

How to Make an Impact

Influence, Inform and Impress With Your Reports, Presentations and Business Documents

Jon Moon | 4.01

The Articulate Advocate

Persuasive Skills for Lawyers in Trials, Appeals, Arbitrations, and Motions

Marsha Hunter, Brian K. Johnson, et al. | 4.01

Michael Symon's Carnivore

120 Recipes for Meat Lovers

Michael Symon | 4.01

Gamestorming

A Playbook for Innovators, Rule-breakers, and Changemakers

Dave Gray, Sunni Brown, James Macanufo | 4.01

Ola Olusoga Skimmed in the past, rereading. It has great examples of frameworks that help move you from fuzzy ideas to tangible output. (Source)

Advanced Presentations by Design

Creating Communication That Drives Action

Andrew Abela | 4.01

Largemouth Bass Presentation

Dynamic Lure Trends That Boat Bass Anywhere

In-Fisherman Staff | 4.00

Draw to Win

A Crash Course on How to Lead, Sell, and Innovate With Your Visual Mind

Dan Roam | 4.00

The Art of Rhetoric

Aristotle | 4.00

Presentation Patterns

Techniques for Crafting Better Presentations

Neal Ford, Matthew McCullough, Nathaniel Schutta | 4.00

Stories That Move Mountains

Storytelling and Visual Design for Persuasive Presentations

Martin Sykes, A. Nicklas Malik, Mark D. West | 3.99

Bringing you weekly presentation productivity pointers to help you finish that deck faster and deliver more impact at work.

Top 9 Presentation Design Books (2023)

Hey there, slide slayer! 🦸‍♂️ Looking for the perfect resource to level up your presentation design game? Look no further! I've compiled a list of the best (and my favorite) presentation design books that will turn your slides from 'meh' to 'WOW.' Say goodbye to boring presentations and hello to captivating, engaging visuals. Let's dive in!

What Are the Best Presentation Design Books?

I've handpicked these amazing books, packed with insights, tips, and techniques to help you create stunning presentations. Whether you're a new grad or a working professional, these books have got you covered. Let's explore them one by one.

Slide:ology: The Art and Science of Creating Great Presentations

Written by presentation expert Nancy Duarte, Slide:ology is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their slide design skills. This comprehensive guide covers everything from storytelling to slide layout and design principles.

What I Liked

• Step-by-step guidance on designing effective presentations
• Beautiful visuals and examples from well-known companies
• Great case studies highlighting the people
• Clear authority in the field since she designed Al Gore's famous climate change slide deck that was the basis for an Inconvenient Truth film
• Clear explanations of design concepts
• Focus on storytelling and audience engagement
• Good focus on timeless ideas
• The print book is beautifully designed
• More hands-on exercises and activities

Bottom Line

This book is perfect for anyone looking to master the art of creating visually stunning and impactful presentations, regardless of their design background.

Resonate: Present Visual Stories that Transform Audiences

Another gem from Nancy Duarte, Resonate focuses on the power of storytelling to create memorable and persuasive presentations. Learn how to connect with your audience and leave a lasting impact.

• Unique approach to visual storytelling
• Incorporation of narrative structure in presentations
• Emphasis on audience engagement and connection
• Variety of case studies from different fields
• Tips for effective slide design and layout
• Expanded section on slide design tools and resources

If you want to learn the art of storytelling in presentations and captivate your audience, this book is a fantastic choice.

DataStory: Explain Data and Inspire Action Through Story

DataStory, also by Nancy Duarte, is a valuable guide for those looking to effectively communicate complex data through storytelling. Discover how to turn numbers into compelling narratives that drive action.

What I Liked:

• Clear explanations of data visualization concepts
• Practical tips for transforming data into stories
• Examples from various industries
• Focus on audience understanding and decision-making
• Techniques for creating persuasive data-driven presentations
• More detailed guidance on data visualization tools
• Expanded coverage of data analysis techniques

Ideal for professionals working with data, this book will help you present complex information in a clear, engaging, and persuasive manner.

Everyday Business Storytelling: Create, Simplify, and Adapt A Visual Narrative for Any Audience

Authors Janine Kurnoff and Lee Lazarus provide practical guidance on using visual storytelling to create effective business presentations. Learn how to simplify complex ideas and adapt your message for any audience.

• Step-by-step process for crafting visual narratives
• Emphasis on audience-centered communication
• Real-world examples and case studies
• Tips for adapting messages to different audiences and contexts
• Techniques for simplifying complex information
• Plenty of examples with before and afters
• The section about email communication because not everything has to be a presentation
• Even more examples at the end

This book is perfect for business professionals who want to create engaging and persuasive visual narratives that resonate with any audience.

Storytelling with Data: A Data Visualization Guide for Business Professionals

Written by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic, Storytelling with Data teaches readers how to present data in a clear and compelling way. Gain valuable insights on data visualization techniques and best practices for business professionals.

• In-depth coverage of data visualization best practices
• Focus on audience-centric presentation design
• Strategies for simplifying complex data
• Tips for selecting the most effective chart types
• Guidance on using color and design elements effectively
• Additional exercises and activities for hands-on practice

This book is ideal for business professionals who want to master data visualization and deliver clear, compelling data-driven presentations.

Good Charts: The HBR Guide to Making Smarter, More Persuasive Data Visualizations

Authored by Scott Berinato, Good Charts is a comprehensive guide to creating data visualizations that effectively communicate complex information. Learn best practices and techniques for creating persuasive and informative charts and graphs.

• Practical guidance for creating effective charts and graphs
• Harvard Business Review's credibility and expertise
• Tips for improving existing data visualizations
• Strategies for engaging and persuading audiences with data
• Expanded coverage of advanced visualization techniques

This book is perfect for professionals seeking to improve their data visualization skills and create more persuasive presentations using data.

Good Charts Workbook: Tips, Tools, and Exercises for Making Better Data Visualizations

A companion to Good Charts, the Good Charts Workbook by Scott Berinato offers hands-on exercises and practical tools to help you create better data visualizations. Improve your skills with engaging activities and real-world examples.

• Interactive exercises and activities
• Focus on hands-on learning and skill development
• Complements the concepts covered in Good Charts
• Tips for refining and improving existing visualizations
• Greater variety of data visualization tools covered
• Inclusion of digital resources and templates

Ideal for those looking to practice and improve their data visualization skills, this workbook is a valuable resource for creating more effective and persuasive data-driven presentations.

The Elegant Pitch: Create a Compelling Recommendation, Build Broad Support, and Get It Approved

Written by Mike Figliuolo, The Elegant Pitch provides a structured approach to crafting persuasive business recommendations. Learn how to build support and get your ideas approved with a clear, compelling pitch.

• Step-by-step process for creating persuasive pitches
• Focus on clarity and simplicity in communication
• Tips for overcoming objections and building support
• Techniques for tailoring your pitch to different audiences
• Well written book with very actionable advice
• More of a hidden gem that isn't talked about as much
• Greater emphasis on visual presentation techniques

This book is perfect for professionals who want to learn how to create compelling recommendations and get their ideas approved in a business setting.

Presentation Zen Design: Simple Design Principles and Techniques to Enhance Your Presentations

In Presentation Zen Design, Garr Reynolds shares his expertise on creating visually stunning and engaging presentations. Discover simple design principles and techniques to transform your slides and captivate your audience.

• Focus on clean, minimalist design principles
• Practical tips for improving slide design
• Real-world examples from various industries
• Strategies for incorporating visuals effectively
• Techniques for engaging and connecting with audiences
• Very culturally sensitive
• Eastern cultural themes and analogies
• An updated edition is needed because, visually, some of the examples feel very out of date

This book is ideal for those looking to enhance their presentation design skills and create visually engaging slides that resonate with their audience.

So there you have it, my top picks for the best presentation design books. Whether you're just starting or want to polish your skills, these books will help you create captivating, engaging slides that leave a lasting impression.

Ready to get started? Grab one of these books and watch your presentations transform! 🚀

Decktopus AI Review 2023

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Books on Presentation Skills: Essential Books and Resources for Effective Communication

• Presentation Skills
• April 16, 2024

Ever found yourself totally hooked by someone’s talk, wondering, “How do they do that?” Well, effective presentation skills aren’t just a workplace thing; they’re a game-changer in life because they present visual stories. Think about it—being able to share ideas in a way that really sticks. In a world where good communication is gold, being a great presenter is a skill worth having. 

So, here’s the plan: we’re diving into a bunch of books that spill the secrets of nailing presentations and building meaningful connections. Stick around as we explore the best presentation skills books, where every page has some new practical tips to teach us about presentations. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

1. Talk Like TED

Author: Carmine Gallo

Description:

In “ Talk Like TED ,” Carmine Gallo takes readers on a journey behind the scenes of some of the most impactful TED Talks, unravelling the elements that transform a presentation from ordinary to extraordinary. Gallo explores the power of storytelling, the significance of emotional connection, and the art of making complex ideas accessible. Through real-life inspiring examples and in-depth analysis, the book provides a blueprint for crafting talks that not only inform but deeply resonate with the audience.

Favourite Quote: “Great speakers are not born. They’re not natural. They’re not lucky. Great speakers work hard.”

Why To Read This Book

If you’re looking to amplify your communication skills, this book is a goldmine. “Talk Like TED” equips you with the tools to captivate your audience, whether you’re presenting ideas at work, pitching a project, or simply aiming to communicate with impact. Gallo’s valuable insights from the world of TED Talks offer practical strategies applicable to a wide range of professional and personal scenarios.

One Key Learning

A practical technique emphasised in the book is the “Twitter Test.” Gallo suggests that if your idea or message can’t be condensed into 140 characters, it might lack clarity. This encourages presenters to distil their core message to its essence, ensuring that it is concise, memorable, and easily digestible by the audience.

2. Resonate

Author: Nancy Duarte

Nancy Duarte’s “ Resonate ” is a deep dive into the art of storytelling within presentations. Duarte contends that great presentations are essentially stories, and she guides readers on how to structure narratives that emotionally engage audiences. Through the lens of iconic speeches, she reveals the structures and techniques that make presentations truly resonate.

Favourite Quote: “Audiences need a map that allows them to figure out where they are and where they are going.”

Read “Resonate” if you want to master the craft of storytelling in presentations. Duarte not only shares the theory but also provides practical tools to create a narrative arc that connects with your audience on a profound level. This book is a game-changer for anyone seeking to make their presentations more compelling and memorable.

A hands-on technique Duarte introduces is the “Sparkline.” This is a visual tool to map the emotional journey of your audience throughout your presentation. By strategically placing highs and lows on a graph, presenters can ensure their narrative is emotionally resonant, creating great presentations with a more impactful and memorable experience for the audience.

3. Presentation Zen

Author: Garr Reynolds

In “ Presentation Zen ,” Garr Reynolds challenges conventional approaches to presentations by advocating for simplicity, clarity, and the power of visuals. The book emphasises the Zen philosophy in presentation design and presentation, urging readers to create slides that are visually engaging and complement the spoken message.

Favourite Quote: “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”

If you’re tired of bullet-point slides and want to transform your presentations into visually stunning experiences, “Presentation Zen” is your guide. Reynolds provides a fresh perspective on design, urging presenters to embrace simplicity, focus on the message, and let visuals enhance rather than distract.

Reynolds introduces the concept of “zenware” – a minimalist approach to presentation software. He suggests using tools that allow for simplicity and avoiding overloading slides with unnecessary features. Adopting zenware encourages presenters to prioritise content and engage the audience through a clean and visually appealing presentation style.

4. The Presentation Secrets Of Steve Jobs

In this insightful book , Carmine Gallo decodes the presentation prowess of the legendary Steve Jobs. Gallo identifies the techniques Jobs used to captivate audiences and unveil products. From creating a compelling narrative to incorporating visuals effectively, the book offers a blueprint inspired by the iconic Apple presentations.

Favourite Quote: “Great leaders are also great speakers.”

For those seeking to understand what made Steve Jobs an unparalleled presenter, this book is highly recommended. Gallo distils the presentation strategies employed by Jobs, providing practical insights that can be applied to captivate and inspire audiences in various professional settings.

A key takeaway is Jobs’ emphasis on creating a memorable and clear message. Gallo highlights the Rule of Three, a technique Jobs frequently employed. This involves structuring content around three main points, making it easier for the audience to grasp and remember. Adopting the Rule of Three can significantly enhance the impact of your persuasive presentations.

5. Confessions Of A Public Speaker

Author: Scott Berkun

In “ Confessions of a Public Speaker ,” Scott Berkun provides a candid and humorous account of his experiences as a public speaker. Berkun shares the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned from years on the speaking circuit, offering a behind-the-scenes look into the world of public speaking.

Favourite Quote: “A great speaker is not one who speaks well, but one who is well spoken about.”

Read this book if you want a dose of reality about public speaking skills. Berkun’s candid storytelling and practical insights make this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve communication skills. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just starting, Berkun’s confessions provide wisdom that resonates with public speakers at every level.

An actionable tip from the book is Berkun’s advice on handling nerves. He suggests viewing nervous energy as a positive force that can enhance your performance. Instead of trying to eliminate nerves, embrace them and channel that energy into enthusiasm, turning a potential obstacle into a powerful asset during your presentation.

6. The Art Of Explanation

Author: Lee LeFever

Lee LeFever’s “ The Art of Explanation ” delves into the science and art of making complex ideas simple. LeFever introduces the concept of “explanation thinking” and provides a framework for crafting clear and engaging explanations. The book is a practical guide for anyone looking to communicate ideas in a way that is easily understood.

Favourite Quote: “The best explanations bring clarity to the confused.”

Read this book if you find yourself struggling to explain complex concepts. LeFever’s insights will empower you to break down intricate ideas into digestible pieces, making your own presentations more accessible and resonant. Whether you’re a teacher, a business professional, or anyone who communicates complex information, “The Art of Explanation” is a valuable resource.

A practical technique highlighted in the book is the “Explanation Scale.” LeFever suggests gauging the level of understanding your audience has on a particular topic and adjusting your explanation accordingly. This allows presenters to tailor their communication to the audience’s knowledge level, ensuring a more effective and engaging presentation.

7. Slide:ology

In “ Slide:ology ,” Nancy Duarte takes a deep dive into the world of presentation slide design. Focusing on the visual aspect of presentations, Duarte emphasises the importance of creating slides that enhance the speaker’s message. The book offers practical advice on designing compelling visuals that support and strengthen the overall presentation.

Favourite Quote: “Audiences should be focused on you and your message, not your slides.”

Read this book if you want to revolutionise the way you design presentation slides. “Slide:ology” provides a wealth of insights on visual storytelling, guiding presenters to create compelling slides that are not just background visuals but integral components of a powerful presentation. Whether you’re a design novice or a seasoned pro, this book has something to offer.

A key concept introduced in the book is the “Information Pyramid.” Duarte suggests structuring information on slides in a hierarchical manner, with the most critical information at the top. This technique helps presenters prioritise content, ensuring that the audience absorbs the most important messages first, creating a more impactful and organised presentation. Remember, the pyramid ensures your audience takes away the key points, preventing information overload on slides.

8. Speak to Win

Author: Brian Tracy

In “ Speak to Win ,” Brian Tracy provides a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of public speaking. Tracy shares strategies for creating and delivering powerful presentations, emphasising the importance of persuasive communication to achieve success in personal and professional life.

Favourite Quote: “The ability to speak persuasively is the key to wealth, influence, and power.”

Read this book if you aspire to become a persuasive and influential speaker. Tracy’s insights cover every aspect of public speaking, from structuring your content to delivering it with confidence. Whether you’re presenting in the boardroom or speaking at a public event, “Speak to Win” equips you with the tools to captivate your audience and achieve your communication goals.

An actionable tip from the book is the “Visualise Your Audience” technique. Tracy suggests mentally picturing a friendly and supportive audience before your presentation. This visualisation helps reduce anxiety and boosts confidence, allowing you to connect more effectively with your audience. Remember, a positive mental image can transform nervous energy into powerful, confident delivery.

9. Putting Stories To Work

Author: Shawn Callahan

“ Putting Stories to Work ” by Shawn Callahan is a guide to harnessing the power of storytelling in professional settings. Callahan explores how narrative techniques can enhance communication, build connections, and convey complex ideas. The book provides practical strategies for incorporating storytelling into presentations to make them more engaging and memorable.

Favourite Quote: “Stories are the original virtual reality.”

Read this book if you want to elevate your presentations through the art of storytelling. Callahan demonstrates how stories can make your messages more impactful, fostering a deeper connection with your audience. Whether you’re in business, education, or any field that involves communication, “Putting Stories to Work” unlocks the secrets to creating compelling narratives.

A practical storytelling technique suggested by Callahan is the “Six Stories Every Leader Should Be Able to Tell.” These include stories of origin, failure, values in action, customer stories, employee stories, and future stories. Incorporating these narrative archetypes into your presentations can add depth and resonance, creating more engaging and memorable presentations for your audience.

10. Made To Stick

Author: Chip Heath and Dan Heath

In “ Made to Stick ,” Chip Heath and Dan Heath explore the anatomy of simple ideas that stick in people’s minds. The book delves into why some ideas thrive while others fade away, providing a framework for creating messages that are memorable, persuasive, and enduring. With engaging stories and practical insights, the Heath brothers reveal the essential elements of sticky ideas.

Favourite Quote: “To make our communications more effective, we need to shift our thinking from ‘What information do I need to convey?’ to ‘What questions do I want my audience to ask?'”

Read this book if you want to understand the principles behind unforgettable ideas. “Made to Stick” offers a blueprint for crafting messages that resonate with your audience, whether you’re a communicator, marketer, or anyone seeking to make their ideas stick. The Heath brothers’ insights provide a fresh perspective on effective communication.

An actionable concept presented in the book is the “SUCCESs” model, where ideas that are Simple, Unexpected, Concrete, Credible, Emotional, and Story-driven tend to stick in people’s minds. Applying these principles to your presentations can significantly enhance their impact, ensuring that your messages are not only heard but remembered.

Conclusion: Guide to Creating Great Presentations

As we conclude our exploration of these influential books on presentation skills, we find ourselves armed with a treasure trove of knowledge and practical techniques. From the engaging storytelling of TED Talks to the simplicity and clarity advocated by design gurus, each book contributes a unique thread to the presentation mastery.

There are other books as well that may offer additional insights and strategies, further enriching our understanding and enhancing our ability to deliver impactful presentations.

Whether you’re a seasoned presenter or just starting your journey, these literary companions can guide you toward becoming a more confident, persuasive, and impactful communicator. These best presentation books serve as companions, offering guidance, inspiration, and practical tools to help you navigate the dynamic landscape of effective presentations. As you absorb the wisdom within these pages, may your extraordinary presentations become more than just a delivery of information – may they be moments of connection, resonance, and lasting impression.

Extensive research into these resources ensures that you are equipped with the most valuable insights and techniques for your next presentation. Cheers to your next presentation!

Rishabh Bhandari

Rishabh Bhandari is the Content Strategist at Kapable. Rishabh likes to transform complex ideas into captivating narratives relatable to the target audience. He loves telling stories through his content. He believes that stories have the power to shift mindsets and move mountains. He has 3 years of experience in educational blog writing and copywriting.

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11 of the Best Public Speaking Books

February 19, 2024 - Sophie Thompson

These 11 public speaking books discuss a number of methods and techniques to help you improve your public speaking skills. The books are a mix of both in-depth speaking strategy and storytelling through the difficult journey of learning to speak in public.

There are many articles on public speaking you can find online, however to really learn and understand how to improve, more detailed research needs to be conducted. That’s why these books are great, the authors have put in hundreds of hours of research so you don’t have to.

These books teach you how to speak at conferences and TED events, present at meetings, interact at networking events and much more.

Here’s our compiled list of the best public speaking books (so you don’t have to trawl through a hundred pages of reviews for the best ones!).

Public speaking books

The Art of Public Speaking

Stephen lucas.

This book focuses on the practical skills of public speaking and the contemporary theories of rhetoric. All major aspects of speech preparation and presentation are covered – students learn to internalise the principles of public speaking, build confidence through speech practice, and prepare for success in the classroom and beyond.

Rating: 4.4/5

Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds

Carmine gallo.

TED brings together the world’s leading thinkers and speakers who inspire people and give them the confidence to overcome their fear of public speaking. This public speaking book reveals the nine secrets of successful TED presentations by going through hundreds of TED talks and interviewing top presenters and researchers.

Rating: 4.6/5

Confessions of a Public Speaker

Scott berkun.

This book provides an insider’s perspective on how to effectively present ideas to anyone. It’s a unique and entertaining story through the embarrassments and triumphs Scott has experienced over 15 years of speaking to crowds of all sizes. You’ll get new insights into the art of persuasion, teaching, learning, and performance.

Do You Talk Funny?: 7 Comedy Habits to Become a Better Public Speaker

David nihill.

The author overcomes his speaking fears by pretending to be an accomplished comedian for a year, while learning from other stand-up comedians about how to speak in public. This public speaking book will teach you how to craft a story your audience will laugh at and want to listen to, as well as helping you master the timing and delivery of your performance.

Out With It: How Stuttering Helped Me Find My Voice

Katherine preston.

After battling with her stutter for 17 years, Katherine travels around America meeting hundreds of stutterers, including celebrities, psychologists, writers, speech therapists and researchers. Her journey helps debunk the misconceptions shrouding the condition that affects 60 million people worldwide, while learning to embrace the voice within.

Rating: 4.7/5

TED Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking

Chris anderson.

This book explains how the miracle of powerful public speaking is achieved, and equips you to give it your best shot. There is no set formula; no two talks should be the same. The goal is for you to give the talk that only you can give. But don’t be intimidated. You may find it more natural than you think.

Rating: 4.1/5

The Quick and Easy Way to Effective Speaking

Dale carnegie.

The book consists of many technique of Effective Public Speaking. The author has transformed public speaking into a life-skill which anyone can develop. The book consists of basic principles of effective speaking, technique of effective speaking, and the 3-aspects of every speech and effective methods of delivering a talk.

Speak With No Fear

Throughout this book you will learn 7 strategies for coping with public speaking anxiety. These strategies will give you a new perspective, prepare you, and give you actions to practice. As you implement these strategies, your fear will begin to fade. The 7 strategies include ‘Imagine the Worst’, ‘It’s Not About You’ and ‘Be in the Moment’.

Rating: 4.5/5

Speak like Churchill, Stand like Lincoln

James c. humes.

Ever wish you could captivate your boardroom with the opening line of your presentation, like Winston Churchill in his most memorable speeches? Or want to command attention much like Abraham Lincoln? Now, you can master presentation skills, wow your audience, and shoot up the corporate ladder by unlocking the secrets of history’s greatest speakers.

Think Faster, Talk Smarter

Matt abrahams.

Matt Abrahams, Stanford lecturer, podcast host, and communication expert, offers practical and actionable techniques to empower even the most nervous speakers to excel in spontaneous speaking situations. Abrahams offers evidence-based tactics for handling anxiety, adapting to the atmosphere of the room, and ensuring that content is succinct, pertinent, engaging, and memorable.

Charismatic Public Speaking: Passion, Power, Proximity, and Positivity: A History of Charisma with a Practical Application to Leadership

Javier bernad.

Charisma defies precise definition, yet it’s sought after by many. Javier Bernad focuses on refining charisma in public speaking, emphasizing rhetoric’s dual aspects: content and delivery. Exploring the concept’s historical evolution, his book offers practical guidance to embody charisma by mastering Power, Passion, Proximity, and Positivity in communication

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6 Must-Read Books on Public Speaking That Will Perfect Your Pitch

Make your pitches, presentations, and speeches more effective with these must-reads.

Think of the best presentation or speech you'd ever seen. Whether it a famous TEDTalk , a conference keynote by a professional speaker , or a colleague's all-star client presentation, it likely stuck with you because the presenter delivered their message with the confidence and authority that can only come with careful practice.

No matter what industry you work in, or what role you play at your company, speaking and presenting is undoubtedly part of the job. Even if you don't routinely have to pitch clients, woo potential investors, or present reports to your entire department, honing your public speaking skills can have a powerful impact on the more subtle interactions you face every day.

These top-notch books on public speaking and persuasion will help you take center stage, whether you're trying to have a tough conversation with your boss, ace an important client meeting, work the room at a party, or make a good impression on a date.

1.  Art of the Pitch: Persuasion and Presentation Skills That Win Business

by Peter Coughter

The author of this narrative book has worked with some of the best advertising agencies in the world, so he knows the elements of a good pitch. Through relatable stories of real experiences, he walks you through the elements of an effective pitch, from how to practice so that you know the material (versus the presentation), how to support your fellow presenters, and how to be as authentic as possible.

2.  Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion, Revised

by Robert B. Cialdini, PH.D

This book isn't intended as a speaker's playbook, but understanding how persuasion works is a must for every effective presenter. In this book, Cialdini draws on his impressive background studying influence and persuasion to present six truths you can draw on to improve your own persuasiveness and quickly detect when someone is trying to shift your beliefs.

3.  TED Talks: The Official TED Guide To Public Speaking

by Chris Anderson

TEDTalks are notoriously clear, concise and powerful, and the head of TED shares his tips for taking your own presentations to the next level in this insights-packed book. He not only addresses the way you should carry yourself as you deliver your message, but also offers advice for honing the actual content of your presentation to maximize your message's impact.

4.  To Sell Is Human: The Surprising Truth About Moving Others

by Daniel H. Pink

So many of our normal interactions are essentially acts of sales; We're convincing, persuading, and converting others to support our vision, opinion or plan. In this book, Daniel Pink unpacks the factors that impact the way we interact with one another and offers tactical and actionable advice--based on a wealth of scientific studies--on how to be more persuasive, relatable, and clear when sharing your message.

5.  Steal the Show: From Speeches to Job Interviews to Deal-Closing Pitches, How to Guarantee a Standing Ovation for All the Performances in Your Life

by Michael Port

In "Steal The Show," Michael Port--also the author of the bestselling " Book Yourself Solid "--applies lessons from acting and theater to the world of sales, speaking, and presenting. He offers tips on properly integrating humor into your speaking, how to modulate your voice and tone, and more to help you make all your "everyday performances" more compelling.

6.   The Quick and Easy Way To Effective Speaking

by Dale Carnegie

This classic book, revised and updated, echoes the style of Carnegie's most famous book, " How To Win Friends And Influence People ." Carnegie gives insights into the ways that your behavior impacts the way others perceive you and interact with you, and offers tips for shifting your actions to make it more likely that you'll get the response you want, whether you're on stage, in a boardroom or just having a heart-to-heart. 

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Presentation Skills

9 Best Presentation Skills Books

Discover the best presentation skills books to improve your communication and captivate your audience. Enhance your public speaking abilities today!

HBR Guide to Persuasive Presentations

by Nancy Duarte

What is HBR Guide to Persuasive Presentations about?

The book offers a comprehensive guide to crafting and delivering persuasive presentations. Drawing on her expertise in communication and visual storytelling, the author provides practical tips and strategies to captivate audiences, structure compelling narratives, and effectively use visuals to enhance the impact of presentations. With insights from successful speakers and real-world examples, this book equips readers with the skills needed to deliver persuasive presentations that leave a lasting impression.

Who should read HBR Guide to Persuasive Presentations

Business professionals seeking to enhance their presentation skills.

Students and educators looking to improve their persuasive communication abilities.

Individuals interested in mastering the art of influential public speaking.

The Successful Speaker

by Grant Baldwin

What is The Successful Speaker about?

In this practical guide, the author shares his expertise on becoming a successful speaker. With five essential steps, he provides valuable insights on how to book speaking engagements, negotiate fees, and establish a strong platform. Packed with actionable advice and real-life examples, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to thrive in the competitive world of public speaking.

Who should read The Successful Speaker

Aspiring speakers looking to break into the speaking industry.

Established speakers seeking to enhance their booking strategies and income.

Individuals interested in building a strong personal brand and platform.

Talk Like Ted

by Carmine Gallo

What is Talk Like Ted about?

In this insightful book, the author reveals the secrets behind captivating and influential public speaking by analyzing the techniques used by some of the world's most successful individuals. Drawing from extensive research and real-life examples, Gallo presents nine essential strategies that can transform anyone into a powerful and persuasive speaker. Packed with practical tips and inspiring stories, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills and leave a lasting impact on their audience.

Who should read Talk Like Ted

Aspiring public speakers looking to improve their presentation skills.

Professionals seeking to captivate and inspire their audience through public speaking.

Individuals interested in learning from the world's most successful speakers.

Pitch Anything

by Oren Klaff

What is Pitch Anything about?

In "Pitch Anything," the author presents a groundbreaking approach to delivering persuasive presentations and closing deals. Oren Klaff shares his innovative method, which combines neuroscience, psychology, and storytelling techniques to captivate and engage the audience. With real-life examples and practical strategies, this book provides valuable insights on how to effectively pitch ideas, negotiate, and ultimately win over clients and investors.

Who should read Pitch Anything

Sales professionals looking to enhance their presentation and persuasion skills.

Entrepreneurs seeking to win over investors and secure funding.

Business professionals aiming to improve their negotiation and deal-making abilities.

by Chris Anderson

What is TED Talks about?

In this insightful guide, the author, who is the curator of TED, shares his expertise on public speaking. Drawing from his experience of coaching numerous speakers, he reveals the secrets behind delivering powerful TED Talks. Packed with practical tips, techniques, and inspiring examples, this book equips readers with the tools to captivate audiences, convey ideas effectively, and leave a lasting impact through their public speaking skills.

Who should read TED Talks

Aspiring public speakers seeking expert guidance on delivering impactful TED Talks.

Professionals looking to enhance their public speaking skills and captivate audiences.

Individuals interested in understanding the art of persuasive communication.

Power Questions

by Andrew Sobel, Jerold Panas

What is Power Questions about?

"Power Questions" is a practical guide that offers valuable insights on how to effectively build relationships, win new business, and influence others. Written by Andrew Sobel and Jerold Panas, this book provides a comprehensive collection of thought-provoking questions that can be used in various professional and personal settings. With a focus on enhancing communication skills and fostering meaningful connections, this book equips readers with the tools to achieve success in their interactions and achieve their goals.

Who should read Power Questions

Sales professionals looking to enhance their communication and persuasion skills.

Business leaders seeking to strengthen their relationship-building abilities.

Individuals interested in improving their influence and networking capabilities.

by Joseph McCormack

What is Brief about?

In this insightful guide, Joseph McCormack explores the power of brevity in communication. He emphasizes the importance of cutting through the noise and getting to the point, offering practical strategies to convey messages effectively and make a lasting impact. With real-life examples and actionable tips, "Brief" equips readers with the tools to streamline their communication, captivate audiences, and achieve greater success in both personal and professional interactions.

Who should read Brief

Professionals seeking to enhance their communication skills and influence.

Business leaders looking to streamline their messaging and increase efficiency.

Individuals who want to make a lasting impression with concise communication.

Unleash the Power of Storytelling

by Rob Biesenbach

What is Unleash the Power of Storytelling about?

In this captivating guide, Rob Biesenbach explores the art of storytelling and its transformative impact on communication. With practical tips and engaging anecdotes, he reveals how storytelling can captivate audiences, influence opinions, and drive meaningful change. Whether you're a business professional, marketer, or simply seeking to enhance your storytelling skills, this book will empower you to harness the power of narrative and achieve remarkable results in any endeavor.

Who should read Unleash the Power of Storytelling

Business professionals seeking to enhance their communication and persuasion skills.

Public speakers and presenters looking to captivate and engage their audience.

Marketers and advertisers aiming to create compelling and memorable brand narratives.

TED Talks Storytelling Techniques

by Akash Karia

What is TED Talks Storytelling Techniques about?

In this insightful guide, Akash Karia delves into the art of storytelling by analyzing 23 captivating TED Talks. Drawing from the techniques used by the best speakers, Karia provides practical tips and strategies to help readers master the art of storytelling. Whether you're a professional speaker or simply want to enhance your communication skills, this book offers valuable insights to engage and inspire your audience through the power of storytelling.

Who should read TED Talks Storytelling Techniques

Aspiring public speakers looking to improve their storytelling skills.

TED Talk enthusiasts seeking to understand the techniques behind captivating presentations.

Individuals interested in learning from the best TED Talks for personal growth.

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10 Amazing Books to Boost Your Presentation Skills

• By Mirna Šmidt
• April 5, 2023

Whether you want to gain value for your trainer’s career, you want to improve your presentation skills generally in work and life, or you are training others in their presentation skills, we have some great approaches for you to explore.

You are always invited to also train your presentation skills with us at Trainers Toolbox ( discover more here or get in touch to discuss what works best for you) (make this embedded links to pres skills workshop and to contact form) – but in the meantime, these books will give you great new ideas, tools and insights on how to create an amazing, impactful and memorable presentations.

Bring your presentations to the next level!

Structure your presentation and make it memorable

1. Chip Heath, Dan Heath: Made to Stick

Why do some ideas stick with us and others don’t? In an entertaining and eye-opening way, you will receive advice on how to make your ideas and communication more memorable.

2. Carmine Gallo: Talk Like TED

Amazing insights on the secrets of public speaking. The author interviewed to most successful TED presenters and various scientists to form the ideas that will help you succeed as a speaker.

3. Carmine Gallo: The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs

Get passionate about the possibilities of your audiences! Using Steve Jobs as an example, you will discover lively techniques of the popular presenter.

4. Scott Berkun: Confessions of a Public Speaker

Immerse in the world of great communication. Follow Berkun through 15 years of authentic experience, learning from his mistakes and understand what leads to his triumphs.

Building a clear message

5. Roger Mavity, Stephen Bayley: Life’s a Pitch

Not only in the business world but also in your private life, sharing ideas and handle human transactions is necessary and important. You agree? Explore the art of persuasion and strengthen your skills, both in your presentations and in everyday communication!

Boost your design with the help of PowerPoint, on Whiteboard, or as drawing

6. Nancy Duarte: Resonate

Build a strong connection with your audience by presenting visual stories. If you want to become a visual communicator, grab this one! It is one of the most amazing books on presentation skills - highly recommended!

7. Nancy Duarte: slide:ology

This Nancy Duarte book is focused on designing you slides, and amazes with “walking the talk” throughout the book. It is highly practical, as well as rich in inspiring examples presented in a visual way.

8. Garr Reynolds: Presentation Zen

Get ready for a new, creative and effective way you think about your presentations. Aiming for simplicity yet deep impact, this book is full of memorable lessons, but also beautiful examples how to make presentations stand out.

9. Garr Reynolds: Presentation Zen Design

Deep dive into effective PPT design, with many inspiring examples and practical tips.

10. Dan Roam: The Back of the Napkin

If you are particularly interested in whiteboarding and drawing, don’t miss this opportunity to improve your skills. It is fascinating how visual representations can help solve complex problems.

Did you know that you can train your presentation skills with us at Trainers Toolbox?

Discover more about presentation skills workshops  or get in touch to discuss how we can support you with your presentation skills development.

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CLAUDIO SENNHAUSER

Five must-read presentation skills books.

When you search Amazon.com for presentation skills books, you will get almost 18,000 results. It is difficult to choose which one to read.

Many of these presentations skills books are very good and will undoubtedly help you improve you presentations. A few of them, however, are absolute gems that should be in every presenter’s bookshelf.

In this post, I review five of my most treasured presentation skills books. Each one has a slightly different focus, ranging from how to add a stories to your presentation to tips for better slide designs.

“Resonate” by Nancy Duarte

This is Nancy Duarte’s first book, although it has been published two years after her “ slide:ology: The Art and Science of Creating Great Presentations “, which taught presenters how to give more visually appealing presentations.

In “ Resonate: Present Visual Stories that Transform Audiences ,” Duarte shows just how important stories are for compelling presentations. She has studied great presenters and their presentations and suddenly it clicked: Those presentations all followed some form of pattern. A pattern that is not just found in great presentations, but also literary work and blockbuster movies. Drawing from this research, Duarte outlines these patterns and gives useful tips on how to add that special something to your presentations.

One of the most profound tips in the book is what Nancy calls the intentional placement of a S.T.A.R. Moment:  S omething  T hey’ll  A lways  R emember.  This moment should be so profound or so dramatic that it becomes what the audience chats about at the water cooler or appears as the headline of a news article. Planting a S.T.A.R. moment in a presentation keeps the conversation going even after it’s over and helps the message go viral.

“Presentation Zen” by Garr Reynolds

Presentation designer and internationally acclaimed communications expert Garr Reynolds, creator of the most popular Web site on presentation design and delivery on the net —  presentationzen.com  — shares his experience in a provocative mix of illumination, inspiration, education, and guidance that will change the way you think about making presentations with PowerPoint or Keynote.

Presentation Zen  challenges the conventional wisdom of making “slide presentations” in today’s world and encourages you to think differently and more creatively about the preparation, design, and delivery of your presentations. Garr shares lessons and perspectives that draw upon practical advice from the fields of communication and business. Combining solid principles of design with the tenets of Zen simplicity, this book will help you along the path to simpler, more effective presentations.

“The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs” by Carmine Gallo

Apple CEO Steve Jobs’s wildly popular presentations have set a new global gold standard. This step-by-step guide shows you exactly how to use his crowd-pleasing techniques in your own presentations.

The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs  is as close as you’ll ever get to having the master presenter himself speak directly in your ear. Communications expert Carmine Gallo has studied and analyzed the very best of Jobs’s performances, offering point-by-point examples, tried-and-true techniques, and proven presentation secrets that work every time. With this revolutionary approach, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to sell your ideas, share your enthusiasm, and wow your audience the Steve Jobs way.

The author, Carmine Gallo, writes a bi-weekly column for Businessweek.com and has been a featured contributor to several other major websites including MSNBC, Military.com, Always On, AOL and Yahoo Finance. Gallo personally coaches leading executives for keynote speeches, media interviews, product launches, and book tours.

To read my detailed book review,  click here .

“Presentation Skills 201” by William R Steele

Presentation Skills 201  is for the good presenter who is determined to get even better. Containing over 70 pieces of detailed advice for higher performance,  Presentation Skills 201  can be read from cover-to-cover or used as a reference guide. It includes valuable, easy-to-implement tips for every facet of the presentation process from planning to delivery. It’s all here at an advanced level for high-performing professionals who desire that extra edge by increasing confidence and engaging audiences.

Readers will learn how to increase both the impact and memorability of their presentations. Included with the tips are scores of real-life examples and stories from the author’s over 16 years of helping highly-accomplished presenters find that one more thing that they can do to take it up notch and build their careers by making strong, positive impressions on their presentation audiences.

Confessions of a Public Speaker by Scott Berkun

Scott Berkun is a former Microsoft executive who turned writer and professional speaker.  Confessions  is Berkun’s first-hand account of many years of public speaking, teaching, and television appearances.

In the book, he shares his successes, failures, and some frustrating experiences, to help readers with their delivery of their own presentations.  Confessions  contains practical advice in every chapter of the book. It teaches what to do when things go wrong: whether it is a tough crowd you are facing or technical difficulties you encounter.

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10 Best Public Speaking Books to Become a Confident Communicator

Public speaking is a crucial skill that can help you in many facets of life. Whether you’re delivering a presentation in front of your colleagues, speaking at a conference, or pitching a business idea to potential investors, the ability to communicate effectively can set you apart from the crowd. But for most people, the thought of speaking in front of a large audience can be daunting. That’s where public speaking books come in.

Why Public Speaking Skills Are Essential

Improving your public speaking skills can benefit you in numerous ways, both personally and professionally. Here are three reasons why:

Boosting Your Career

Public speaking is a valuable skill in many industries. Whether you’re aiming for a leadership position in your current company or looking to establish yourself as an expert in your field, being able to deliver compelling presentations and communicate your ideas effectively can help you stand out.

For example, in the business world, public speaking is often a crucial part of pitching ideas to investors, presenting proposals to clients, and leading team meetings. By mastering the art of public speaking, you can increase your chances of success in these high-stakes situations.

In addition, public speaking skills can also help you advance your career by making you a more effective networker. Being able to confidently introduce yourself, share your ideas, and engage in meaningful conversations can help you build valuable connections and open up new opportunities.

Enhancing Your Communication Skills

Public speaking encompasses more than just giving speeches. It’s also about everyday communication, such as engaging in productive conversations with colleagues or delivering feedback to your team. By improving your public speaking skills, you can become a more effective communicator in all areas of your life.

For instance, public speaking can help you learn to listen actively, read body language, and respond thoughtfully to questions. These skills can translate into better communication and collaboration with coworkers, improved relationships with friends and family, and even more satisfying personal interactions.

Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

For many people, the fear of public speaking is rooted in a lack of confidence. By honing your public speaking abilities, you can face your fears head-on and develop the confidence to take on new challenges.

Public speaking can also help you build self-esteem by giving you a sense of accomplishment and validation. When you deliver a successful presentation or receive positive feedback from your audience, you can feel proud of your abilities and more confident in your skills.

Moreover, public speaking can help you overcome anxiety and stress by teaching you how to manage your emotions and stay calm under pressure. These skills can be invaluable in both personal and professional situations, helping you navigate difficult conversations, negotiate effectively, and succeed in high-pressure environments.

Top Public Speaking Books

If you’re looking to improve your public speaking skills, there’s no better place to start than with a good book. Here are the ten best public speaking books to help you become a confident speaker:

“Talk Like TED” by Carmine Gallo

In this book, communication guru Carmine Gallo breaks down the techniques used by some of the world’s most successful speakers to deliver TED Talks that captivate their audiences. From storytelling to body language, Gallo teaches readers how to deliver powerful presentations that leave a lasting impact.

You can find this book here .

“The Art of Public Speaking” by Dale Carnegie

Considered a classic in the field of public speaking, this book by the legendary Dale Carnegie provides practical advice on everything from preparing your speech to dealing with stage fright. Carnegie’s timeless tips and techniques have helped countless speakers overcome their fears and deliver confident, engaging presentations.

“Speak With No Fear” by Mike Acker

Written by professional speaker Mike Acker, this book offers techniques and strategies to help you overcome the fear of public speaking and deliver confident, effective presentations. Acker’s approach is based on his own experiences as a speaker, and he provides practical advice that readers can apply immediately.

“Steal the Show” by Michael Port

In “ Steal the Show ,” Michael Port teaches readers how to use performance-based techniques to deliver memorable presentations that engage and inspire their audiences. From using humor to creating a strong stage presence, Port’s techniques are designed to help speakers stand out from the crowd.

“The Quick and Easy Way to Effective Speaking” by Dale Carnegie

Another classic from Dale Carnegie, this book focuses on providing practical strategies for becoming a more effective speaker in various situations. From impromptu speeches to formal presentations, Carnegie’s advice is designed to help speakers communicate their ideas clearly and confidently.

“Confessions of a Public Speaker” by Scott Berkun

In this humorous and insightful book, former Microsoft employee Scott Berkun shares his personal experiences and lessons learned from his time as a professional public speaker. Berkun’s stories provide readers with a behind-the-scenes look at the world of public speaking, as well as practical advice on how to succeed as a speaker.

“The Power of Communication” by Helio Fred Garcia

This book by communication expert Helio Fred Garcia emphasizes the importance of clear communication in all areas of life, from personal relationships to professional settings. Garcia’s approach is based on the idea that effective communication is essential for success in all aspects of life, and he provides readers with practical strategies for improving their communication skills.

“How to Develop Self-Confidence and Influence People by Public Speaking” by Dale Carnegie

Another classic from Dale Carnegie, this book focuses specifically on building self-confidence and using public speaking as a tool for personal and professional growth. Carnegie’s advice is designed to help readers overcome their fears and develop the skills they need to succeed as speakers.

“Presentation Zen” by Garr Reynolds

In “ Presentation Zen ,” designer and speaker Garr Reynolds teaches readers how to create visually stunning presentations that are simple, effective, and memorable. Reynolds’ approach is based on the idea that good design is essential for effective communication, and he provides readers with practical tips and techniques for creating presentations that stand out.

“The Exceptional Presenter” by Timothy J. Koegel

In this book, communications consultant Timothy J. Koegel provides practical tips and techniques for delivering powerful, persuasive presentations that influence and inspire your audience. Koegel’s approach is based on the idea that effective communication is essential for success in all areas of life, and he provides readers with practical strategies for improving their presentation skills.

These ten books are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to resources for improving your public speaking skills. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, investing in your public speaking abilities can pay dividends in both your personal and professional life.

But what if you’re not sure where to start? One great way to improve your public speaking skills is to join a local Toastmasters club. Toastmasters is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people improve their communication and leadership skills through public speaking. At Toastmasters meetings, members give speeches, receive feedback, and participate in impromptu speaking exercises. It’s a great way to build confidence and improve your skills in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Another way to improve your public speaking skills is to seek out opportunities to speak in public. This could mean volunteering to give a presentation at work, joining a local debate club, or even just practicing your speeches in front of friends and family members. The more you speak in public, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become.

Finally, it’s important to remember that public speaking is a skill that can be learned and improved with practice. By reading books, joining Toastmasters, and seeking out opportunities to speak in public, you can become a confident and effective speaker who can captivate any audience.

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• Public Speaking

7 Public Speaking Books You Need to Read

• By  Emily Numa
• Aug 14, 2024
• Freelance Tips

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If you’re considering undertaking some professional development , look no further than compelling and informative public speaking books. Improving your public speaking skills can help you in all aspects of communication, whether you’re delivering a keynote speech to a crowded auditorium or asking your supervisor for a promotion at work.

As a freelancer , you should think about developing a strong public speaking ability. It’s a handy skill to have in your competency toolbox, no matter what your freelance niche is. Solid public speaking skills can help you communicate effectively with clients, make a lasting first impression, and expand your professional network .

In this guide, we’ve highlighted seven of the most effective books on public speaking. They’ll help you boost your confidence and captivate your audience (even if it’s an audience of one). Choose your favorite from the list or read all seven for a well-rounded, balanced perspective. 

1. The Art of Public Speaking

Originally published in 1983, Dale Carnegie’s The Art of Public Speaking is considered a classic and one of the best books on public speaking. Carnegie discusses the importance of developing yourself, choosing a subject you’re passionate about, and engaging in preparation and practice . He covers topics such as using gestures effectively, conquering stage fright, and organizing your content. Each chapter covers a different tenet of public speaking, including the importance of inspiring emotion in your audience and avoiding monotony.

2. Out With It: How Stuttering Helped Me Find My Voice

Katherine Preston’s Out with It: How Stuttering Helped Me Find My Voice is a memoir that explores Preston’s personal journey with stuttering and the way it shaped her life. Rather than being a step-by-step guide or a list of public speaking tips , this story offers several unique perspectives on the journey to self-acceptance and ways to turn adversity into strength. In her memoir, Preston interviews a variety of specialists and researchers as well as celebrities, writers, musicians, etc., about battling and overcoming speech difficulties. If you’re looking for an engaging story with an inspirational message, then this book is a valuable addition to your professional and personal development library.

3. Talk Like TED

Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds , by Carmine Gallo, discusses the key factors that make TED Talks so powerful and influential. By analyzing some of the most popular TED Talks, Gallo identifies nine secrets that anyone can apply to their own speeches and presentations to make them more persuasive and memorable. Gallo offers advice on what he considers the most effective elements of public speaking:

• Being passionate about your topic
• Mastering the art of storytelling
• Embracing concision (TED Talks are typically no longer than 18 minutes) 
• Providing a unique perspective on a topic
• Delivering memorable moments
• Implementing an informal, conversational tone of voice  
• Using a multisensory approach
• Injecting humor when appropriate
• Staying authentic

If you’re a fan of TED Talks and want your presentations to leave a lasting impression, consider adding this book to your collection.

4. Presentation Zen

Presentation Zen , by Garr Reynolds, focuses on the visual and design aspects of public speaking. Reynolds advocates for a mindful and minimalist approach to presentations, emphasizing simplicity, clarity, and a focus on the audience. Storytelling is also a central theme in Presentation Zen – Reynolds stresses structuring presentations as stories with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

5. Do You Talk Funny?: 7 Comedy Habits to Become a Better (and Funnier) Public Speaker

David Nihill’s Do You Talk Funny?: 7 Comedy Habits to Become a Better (and Funnier) Public Speaker shares techniques from the world of stand-up comedy that help improve your public speaking skills. Nihill outlines seven key habits: creating an opening hook, using stories, adding humor, practicing delivery, editing ruthlessly, engaging with the audience, and closing strong. He also provides practical exercises and tips for incorporating these habits into presentations.

6. Communication Skills Training

In Communication Skills Training , Ian Tuhovsky offers a comprehensive guide to improving various aspects of communication, from verbal and nonverbal cues to active listening and empathy. He underscores the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in effective communication and provides practical exercises throughout the book. Tuhovsky also explores techniques for tackling tricky social interactions. For example, handling difficult conversations, giving and receiving feedback, and avoiding misunderstandings. This book is a great choice for anyone interested in developing their everyday social skills as a way to become a better communicator in their personal and professional lives. 

7. Speak With No Fear

In Speak With No Fear , Mike Acker provides practical strategies to overcome the fear of public speaking and build confidence. This includes acknowledging and embracing your fear, preparing thoroughly, and focusing on your message rather than yourself. Acker also emphasizes the importance of practicing regularly to reduce the stress and fear surrounding public speaking. He describes how to accept constructive feedback to improve. If fear of public speaking is holding you back from achieving your goals, this is a great guide to improving your mindset and becoming more comfortable in front of an audience. 

Becoming A Public Speaker

If you want to sharpen your presentation skills and learn how to better engage your audience, check out our comprehensive Becoming A Public Speaker course. It’ll help you conquer your nerves and ensure you’re ready for any public speaking scenario, from presentations to job interviews. Claim your free lessons to get started today!

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What It Takes to Give a Great Presentation

• Carmine Gallo

Five tips to set yourself apart.

Never underestimate the power of great communication. It can help you land the job of your dreams, attract investors to back your idea, or elevate your stature within your organization. But while there are plenty of good speakers in the world, you can set yourself apart out by being the person who can deliver something great over and over. Here are a few tips for business professionals who want to move from being good speakers to great ones: be concise (the fewer words, the better); never use bullet points (photos and images paired together are more memorable); don’t underestimate the power of your voice (raise and lower it for emphasis); give your audience something extra (unexpected moments will grab their attention); rehearse (the best speakers are the best because they practice — a lot).

I was sitting across the table from a Silicon Valley CEO who had pioneered a technology that touches many of our lives — the flash memory that stores data on smartphones, digital cameras, and computers. He was a frequent guest on CNBC and had been delivering business presentations for at least 20 years before we met. And yet, the CEO wanted to sharpen his public speaking skills.

• Carmine Gallo is a Harvard University instructor, keynote speaker, and author of 10 books translated into 40 languages. Gallo is the author of The Bezos Blueprint: Communication Secrets of the World’s Greatest Salesman  (St. Martin’s Press).

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Table of Contents

A list of the top 40 books on presentation skills.

With recent the passing of Casey Kasem , I allowed nostalgia to grab hold of me this week and decided to dive into a Top 40 list.

Following are the top 40 books listed under the category of “ Running Meetings & Presentations ” as ranked by Amazon.com on Monday, June 16, 2014. A few of these are classics and must-reads. I had never heard of some of these books and have added them to my reading list. It surprised me to find some of these titles so high on Amazon’s rankings. And a word of advice: if you want a highly ranked book on the topic of presentations, you might want to put “TED” in your title.

If you think there’s an important, influential or classic book on presentation skills not included on this list, let me know in the comments section at the end of this article .

• How to Win Friends & Influence People: The Only Book You Need to Lead You To Success (Dale Carnegie)
• Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking when Stakes are High (Kerry Patterson)
• Power Cues: The Subtle Science of Leading Groups, Persuading Others, and Maximizing your Personal Impact  (Nick Morgan)
• Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us  (Daniel Pink)
• Talk Like TED: The 9 Public Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds  (Carmine Gallo)
• How to Design TED Worthy Presentation Slides: Presentation Design Principles from the Best TED Talks  (Akash Kana)
• Pitch Perfect: How to Say it Right the First Time, Every Time  (Bill McGowan)
• A Social Strategy: How We Profit from Social Media (Mikolaj Jan Piskorski)
• Just Listen: Discover the Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone  (Mark Goulston)
• World Class Speaking in Action: 50 Certified Coaches Show You How to Present, Persuade and Profit  (Craig Valentine)
• Whoever Tells the Best Story Wins: How to Use Your Own Stories to Communicate with power and Impact  (Annette Simmons)
• Secrets of the Voice: Read People and Influence Others Using the Voice  (Ehud Segev)
• Sell from the Stage: Without Toasting Rubber Chickens  (Sam Crowley)
• Positioning: The Battle for Your Mind (Al Ries)
• Humble Inquiry: The Gentle Art of Asking Instead of Telling  (Edgar Schein)
• Death by Meeting: A Leadership Fable… About Solving the Most Painful Problem in Business  (Patrick Lencioni)
• Pitch Anything: An Innovative Method for Presenting, Persuading and Winning the Deal  (Oren Klaff)
• How to Deliver a TED Talk: Secrets of the World’s Most Inspiring Presentations  (Jeremy Donovan)
• Crucial Accountability: Tools for Resolving Violated Expectations, Broken Commitments and Bad Behavior  (Kerry Patterson)
• Public Speaking: Storytelling Techniques for Electrifying Presentations  (Akash Karia)
• How Successful People Think Differently (Akash Karia)
• Body Language Expert, Male Focus: How to SUCCESSFULLY READ & SHOW a Man’s Body Language in Business, Social Skills and Dating  (F. R. Lifestyle)
• The Power of Presence: Unlock Your Potential to Influence and Engage Others  (Kristi Hedges)
• Conversational Intelligence: How Great Leaders Build Trust & Get Extraordinary Results  (Judith Glaser)
• Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (Henry Robert)
• It’s the Way You Say It: Becoming Articulate, Well-spoken and Clear  (Carol Fleming)
• Magic of Impromptu Speaking: Create a Speech that will be Remembered for Years in Under 30 Seconds  (Andrii Sedniev)
• Designing for Growth: A Design Thinking Toolkit for Managers  (Tim Ogilvie)
• How to Deliver a Great TED Talk: Presentation Secrets of the World’s Best Speakers  (Akash Karia)
• Presentation Zen: Simple Ideas on Presentation Design and Delivery  (Garr Reynolds)
• Liespotting: Proven Techniques to Detect Deception  (Pamela Meyer)
• The Sketchnote Handbook: The Illustrated Guide to Visual Notetaking  (Mike Rohde)
• Resonate: Present Visual Stories that Transform Audiences  (Nancy Duarte)
• The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace: Empowering Organizations by Encouraging People  (Gary Chapman)
• slide:ology (Nancy Duarte)
• Networking is Dead: Making Connections that Matter  (Melissa Wilson)
• The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs: How to be Insanely Great in Front of any Audience  (Carmine Gallo)
• Show and Tell: How Everybody Can Make Extraordinary Presentations  (Dan Roam)
• HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Communication (Harvard Business Review)
• Emotional Intelligence – The Ultimate Guide to Develop your Emotional Intelligence and Improve Your Communication Skills Now   (Patrick Cogen)

So there you have it. Go forth, read a lot, apply what you’ve learned and amaze your audiences. As Casey would say: keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars.

Brian Washburn

Brian has over 25 years of experience in Learning & Development including the last 7 as CEO of Endurance Learning.

Brian is always available to chat about learning & development and to talk about whether Endurance Learning can be your training team’s “extra set of hands”.

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Reviews of The Best Books on Every Subject

20 Best Public Speaking Books (2022 Review)

September 15, 2020 by James Wilson

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, I receive a commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Public speaking is an efficient tool in society for a number of reasons. People write speeches for a number of readers. People deliver speeches at ceremonies like graduations and weddings. They deliver speeches at work for meetings, or at events. Professors have to be public speakers every day. They address their students, and also have to help them understand the information they are teaching them. Public teaching is something that everyone uses at some point. And those who don’t have to speak at public events still have to communicate in day to day life.

What are the Best Public Speaking Books to read?

Public speaking books help readers speak at events, but they also help them communicate and socialize so efficiently. The books listed below are helpful books on teaching readers public speaking skills, tips, and techniques. The books cover a number of topics on public speaking, and provide a lot of quality advice for public speakers of all levels. The books will help readers improve their public speaking, but also understand how public speakers they’ve seen deliver and create their own speeches.

Best Public Speaking Books: Our Top 20 Picks

Here are some of the best public speaking books that you can consider to expand your knowledge on the subject:

1. Talk Like Ted

Talk Like Ted by Carmine Gallo is the perfect guide for helping readers mimic the public speaking techniques of Ted Talks. This book is full to successful Ted Talk examples and the techniques they used to deliver great speeches. Gallo himself is a public speaking coach, so he is an expert on this topic. He has done his research. He interviewed many Ted Talk speakers for this book to properly identify how they prepare for their events.

The book then provides a step by step guide for achieving a successful speech. Readers of this book should not feel trepidation about their upcoming speech. This book will guide them through it, and make them feel confident.

• Authors : Carmine Gallo (Author)
• Publisher : St. Martin’s Griffin; Reprint Edition (March 10, 2015)
• Pages : 288 pages

2. Ted Talks: The Official Guide to Public Speaking

Ted Talks are incredible talks given by experts on a number of topics. The talks include advice, tips, and experiences. Ted Talks: The Official Guide to Public Speaking by Chris Anderson is essentially a ted talk exclusively for improving public speaking that is based on the way people deliver ted talks. Anderson discusses ted talks and how eloquently the expert’s speak. That is because they practice speaking, and learn how to address an audience. This book analyzes the way Ted Talk speakers speak, and identifies the tricks they use for their speeches.

This book covers every detail about public speaking. It helps readers identify their strengths and create a speech that works best for them. There is no clear cut way to deliver a speech. This book discusses some of the best strategies for speaking at large events, and anywhere else. Whether the reader is giving a speech at a big lecture or a wedding reception, this book will help them perfect it.

• Authors : Chris Anderson (Author)
• Publisher : Mariner Books; Reprint Edition (April 4, 2017)

3. The Art of Public Speaking

Public speaking is scary, but it also can be exciting. It is an unknown art that can be difficult to master. The Art of Public Speaking by Stephen E. Lucas wants to help readers overcome the challenges of speaking at public events. This book was specifically created to teach students public speaking in a classroom setting. Students can use this book to prepare for class and deliver the best speech possible. This book is personable, interesting, and fun to read. This book is great for students studying communication.

However, at times it can be over-simplified. It seems that this book is great as an introduction, but should only be read by beginners. People with a background in communications or have taken a few classes on communications should skip this book, and choose something with more information.

• Authors : Stephen Lucas (Author)
• Publisher : McGraw-Hill Education; 12th Edition (October 9, 2014)
• Pages : 388 pages

4. The Art of Public Speaking

The Art of Public Speaking by Stephen Lucas has many editions. On its 11th edition it covers the basics of public speaking. The book focuses on the introductory parts of planning a speech, like the preparation and presentation. The book helps readers do many things. It helps them build confidence, prepare for their inevitable success, and strive in a classroom setting and beyond.

With the 11th edition of this book, teachers and professors can customize the sections they want their students to study and read. They can use small sections of the book instead of the whole thing. They can arrange the book in the order they want it and make their classes run smoothly. This book helps students pay for the material they are actually reading, instead of a huge, unnecessary book.

• Publisher : McGraw-Hill Education; 11th Edition (October 4, 2011)
• Pages : 382 pages

5. Speak With No Fear

Speak With No Fear by Mike Acker is the perfect book for elevating public speaking. This book helps those who are anxious, nervous speakers go from sweaty to superb. This book helps readers gain confidence when communicating in private and public. This book is full of great strategies that help readers speak out and proud. No one speaks flawlessly without practice and perfection.

Those who speak on Ted Talks have techniques they use and implement. This book identifies those techniques, and helps the readers use them in their speeches. This book uses seven strategies to find each reader’s inner undeterred speech. It’s an easy read that is straight to the point, and fun. It has so many examples and tools that help build effortless speeches.

• Authors : Mike Acker (Author)
• Publisher : ADVANCE, Coaching and Consulting (May 22, 2019)
• Pages : 183 pages

6. Speak Up!: An Illustrated Guide to Public Speaking

Pictures make educational books more alluring and easier to read. Speak Up!: An Illustrated Guide to Public Speaking by Douglas M. Fraleigh and Joseph S. Turman is a book that uses drawings to teach public speaking. The book combines illustrations, research, and humor to help readers create and deliver the perfect speech.

The book does tend to state the obvious, but it has lots of great information for beginners who have never had to speak in public. In addition to this, the pictures ease nerves and minds. They help readers focus on the content and get quality information without fretting about their speech. This book can be biased at times. The authors often speak from a place of opinion instead of fact, but overall, this book is great for learning how to speak at public events.

• Authors : Douglas M. Fraleigh (Author), Joseph S. Tuman (Author)
• Publisher : Bedford/St. Martin’s; Fourth Edition (October 14, 2016)
• Pages : 768 pages

7. A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking

Like many books, A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking by Dan O’ Hair, Hannah Rubenstein, and Rob Stewart has many editions. It is currently on its fifth edition. This edition has practical coverage on public speaking. The book discusses many topics, like research and organization, invention, and so much more.

The book also discusses the different speech types, and how to define the speech each reader is writing. This edition focuses more on the fundamentals of speechmaking in the ever-changing digital world. The book has readable chapters, as well as powerpoint presentations that link with the book. This is a great book for professors teaching public speaking and communication. It’s portable, cheap, and in line with the digital world.

• Authors : Dan O’Hair (Author), Hannah Rubenstein (Author), Rob Stewart (Author)
• Publisher : Bedford/St. Martin’s; Fifth Edition (November 27, 2015)
• Pages : 336 pages

8. Public Speaking for Success

Being able to communicate well and speak efficiently is important to succeed. Public Speaking for Success by Dale Carnegie discusses the importance of public speaking as both a work skill and a life skill. Carnegie had originally written this book in 1926. The book was then revised and shortened in 1956 and 1962. This book is the same one, but with yet another revision.

The book was revised most recently in 2006 by a consultant at Dale Carnegie and Associates. The book has many ideas on speech and diction exercises, and how to properly speak at events. The book is cut down from its original content, but that’s okay. The revisions made to this book has made it more modern and cohesive.

• Authors : Dale Carnegie (Author)
• Publisher : TarcherPerigee; REV and Updated ed. Edition (May 4, 2006)
• Pages : 464 pages

9. The Public Speaking Playbook

Public speaking is an essential component to life. Even though many jobs don’t require public speaking skills, it’s nice to have them. It may even help with a best man or maid of honor speech down the road. The Public Speaking Playbook by Teri Kwal Gamble and Michael W. Gamble has all the essential tips for succeeding with public speeches. This book is great for students, particularly those at the high school level, to create speeches. This book helps them prepare, practice, and present their speeches in a confident setting.

The book discusses speeches on a variety of topics and helps students best prepare for each of them. A speech on politics should not be prepared the same as a speech on music. This is an easy read, and has lots of great information that will help students thrive through communication.

• Authors : Teri Kwal Gamble (Author), Michael W. Gamble (Author)
• Publisher : SAGE Publications, Inc; Second Edition (January 23, 2017)
• Pages : 536 pages

10. A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking

There is so much to know about public speaking, but carrying around heavy books is far from ideal. With A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking by Dan O’Hair, Hannah Rubenstein, and Rob Stewart is the perfect book for public speaking to take on the go. The book is small and compact and includes many tips and tricks for speaking in public.

The book is short, concise, and sweet. The book includes an introduction to all aspects of public speaking: research and organization, practice, delivery, and invention. This book is perfect for anxious readers who want to brush up on some study tips right before this speech. The book has all kinds of information. It is smart and simple. The book has templates and examples, too. Anderson includes all kinds of advice in this teeny tiny book.

• Publisher : Bedford/St. Martin’s; Sixth Edition (October 17, 2018)

11. Public Speaking: Finding Your Voice

Public speaking is a great skill to have at work, and in life. It is great to be able to lead events and give speeches, but the skills learned from public speaking can help with socialization in general. Public Speaking: Finding Your Voice by Michael Osborn, Suzanne Osborn, Randall Osborn, and Kathleen J. Turner is a book that teaches readers how to speak in every setting.

The book is on its 10th edition, so it has up to date information and advice for speaking well everywhere people go. This book is available in paperback, but also as an ebook. This book is often used for college level classes, so professors should consider it when planning their class. Anyone can read this book, but it’s mostly used for college classes.

• Authors : Michael Osborn (Author), Suzanne Osborn (Author), Randall Osborn (Author), Kathleen J. Turner (Author)
• Publisher : Pearson; 10th Edition (January 16, 2014)
• Pages : 450 pages

12. The Art of Public Speaking (International Edition)

The Art of Public Speaking by Stephen E. Lucas is a great book for public speaking advice, and it comes in an international version, too. The international edition of this book is for international students. It uses simple language and has the same basic content as the original issue of this book. This book has great information on public speaking, as well as advice for teaching public speaking.

The book has plenty of aids and advice for teaching public speaking, and helping students be successful. The international version of this book also coordinates with the 13 edition of the book, so it has all the up to date information necessary. This book is professional, straight to the point, and easy to read. This is the perfect guide book for those who teach public speaking, as well as those taking a public speaking class.

• Publisher : McGraw-Hill Education; 13th Edition (February 22, 2019)

13. Master Public Speaking

Mastering Public Speaking by George L Grice, John F Skinner, and Daniel H. Mansson is on its 9th edition. This book is a standalone product, but it can be paired with a communications lab. This book discusses public speaking in the 21st century and how speakers can actively prepare for their speeches.

The book combines speaking techniques with media and technology. It’s important that a speech reflects the time readers are living in. This book helps readers adequately write speeches, improve self-confidence, and communicate efficiently. Readers can use exercises and examples in this book to practice public speaking. They can compare the strategies in this book with the state of their own speech, or speeches they have made in the past. This book is great for beginner and advanced public speakers alike.

• Authors : George L. Grice (Author), John F. Skinner (Author), Daniel H. Mansson (Author)
• Publisher : Pearson; 9th Edition (February 7, 2015)
• Pages : 384 pages

14. Public Speaking: Concepts and Skills for a Diverse Society

Public Speaking: Concepts and Skills for a Diverse Society by Clella Jaffe is a conceptual book that prepares readers with the training to speak on a number of topics. Some of these topics are: arts and culture, politics, and technology. The book has incredible coverage on a number of ideas.

This book helps readers create their speeches with the sensitivity of the audience in mind. So often public speakers write and prepare for their speech without thinking about the people they are addressing. There are plenty of hands on exercises and examples of speeches that will give readers a visual aid when learning how to speak in front of an audience. This is a very good book for learning all kinds of speeches for all kinds of topics.

• Authors : Clella Jaffe (Author)
• Publisher : Cengage Learning; 8th Edition (January 1, 2015)
• Pages : 352 pages

15. Public Speaking

Public Speaking by Steven A. Beebe and Susan J. Beebe is on its 10th edition. This book is a comprehensive guide for creating speeches, presenting them, and workshopping them to be the best they can be. This book is really good because it focuses more on providing examples instead of lecturing readers on how to speak. The content in this book is contemporary and up to date. The book is also available online as an interactive book.

The book helps readers speak well in the real world. Instead of taking the tips from this book to meetings, the reader can also take it to the streets. This is a great book for college students because it has quality information with plenty of visuals and examples. It is easy to learn and study from this book.

• Authors : Steven A. Beebe (Author), Susan J. Beebe (Author)
• Publisher : Pearson; 10th Edition (January 22, 2017)
• Pages : 400 pages

16. Public Speaking- Speaking Like A Professional

Public Speaking– Speaking Like A Professional by Julius Lowenstein is a book that helps readers improve their speech, speak confidently, present themselves in a professional light, and communicate effortlessly.

The book includes many strategies that will help readers speak confidently and devise well-written speeches. This book is vivid, detailed, and interesting. Lowenstein leads readers to deliver strong speeches and practice those speeches. Readers will enjoy learning about public speaking with this book. It has many examples, tools, and research that helps them succeed. This book is perfect for speakers of all levels. Everyone can stand to gain something from the advice in this book. It’s great for beginners, but advanced speakers will enjoy it, too.

• Authors : Julius Loewenstein (Author)
• Publisher : Independently published (April 12, 2019)
• Pages : 127 pages

17. Public Speaking Handbook

Public speaking comes naturally to some, but not to everybody. Public Speaking Handbook by Steven A. Beebe and Susan J. Beebe is a great book for creating speeches for specific audiences. This book has quick and easy information on how to create a speech and deliver it well. The Beebes want readers to create a flawless speech, but also to consider the audience they are delivering the speech to. These books teach readers to communicate effectively and get their ideas across in the best way possible.

This book is also available through Revel which is an immersive digital learning experience. This book is great for public speakers of all levels and ages.

• Publisher : Pearson; 5th Edition (January 18, 2015)
• Pages : 512 pages

18. Public Speaking

Public Speaking: Strategies for Success by David Zarefsky is an effective book for teaching readers to improve their public speaking skills. This book helps them think critically, write effective speeches, and present them well. This book is on its eighth edition so it is up to date and compares public speaking to the modern world.

This book helps public speakers interact with audience members, and create a speech that benefits them. Speakers wont audience members to engage with them, and enjoy their speeches. This book focuses on pleasing the audience while still staying true to the reader’s own speech. This is a great book for teaching public speaking.

• Authors : David Zarefsky (Author)
• Publisher : Pearson; 8th Edition (January 16, 2016)
• Pages : 432 pages

19. Public Speaking

The book Public Speaking by Kathleen J. Turner, Randall Osborn, and Suzanne Osborn are on its 11th edition. This book is great for students who wish to communicate confidently and efficiently, especially in a public setting. The book teaches students how to better analyze other people’s speeches, and use it to improve their own. Because this book is on its 11th edition, it has an interactive component. Students and teachers can use this book to connect with accompanying material online.

This online component helps students practice what they have learned with visuals and examples. They can read and study online, too. This is great for those who don’t want to lug a heavy book down to the library. They can take their book on the go with a phone, tablet, or computer. The digital element of this book takes it to the next level.

• Authors : Kathleen J. Turner (Author), Randall Osborn (Author), Michael Osborn (Author), Suzanne Osborn (Author)
• Publisher : Pearson; 11th Edition (September 6, 2017)
• Pages : 448 pages

20. The Best Public Speaking Book

The Best Public Speaking Book by Matt Deaton may claim to be the best public speaking book, but is it? Let’s see. To start, this book does a lot of things right. Deaton is a former comedy host as well as a keynote speaker and a philosophy professor. This means he is funny, intelligent, and knows how to teach. Those qualities could lead to a great book. Deaton wrote the book to capture three commandments he abides by: Know Thyself, Be Thyself, and Practice.

The book wants readers to adequately study their topic, make a speech, and rehearse it over and over again. The book is an interesting read. It is both educational and humorous. However, whether or not it is the “best public speaking book” is up to the reader. It has many great qualities and information, but the book’s notability is up to the reader.

• Authors : Matt Deaton (Author)
• Publisher : Notaed Press; 2nd Edition ed. (October 17, 2019)
• Pages : 246 pages

Choosing the Best Public Speaking Books

These are some of many books on public speaking. That’s because there are many different techniques for speaking in public. It is completely dependent on what speakers are discussing, how long the speech is, and who the audience is. No speech is the same. There are many different components that go into a speech. These books help identify those components and create and implement a speech that works with those components. Readers will enjoy learning how to communicate effectively with these books.

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Tips for creating the best presentation

Tips Trick and Technique for creating and delivering Powerpoint and Keynote Presentation

The Best Presentation Books That Can Make You a World Class Presenter

July 26, 2013 by Muhammad Noer

Books that will help them to be world-class presenters. Thank god they asked me this question! Had they asked me questions like “where can I find the best horror illustrators for hire ?” or “Who is the perfect choice for an editor?”, then I might not be able to answer most of it and might most likely require a lot of research from my end to answer it. However, in regards to presentation books, I guess it should be a cakewalk.

After reading so many books, I confidently recommend 9 of the best books in presentation for your reference. Learn the book and practice the lessons from these best books. Undoubtedly, your presentation skills will improve and you will be a remarkable presenter that will impress your audience .

1. The Non Designer’s Presentation Book – Robin Williams

You don’t have to be a designer to be able to design attractive and communicative slides.

In The Non – Designer’s Presentation Book – Principles for Effective Presentation Design , Robin explain CRAP approach (Contrast, Repetition, Alignment and Proximity). This concept is very powerful. You can easily remember and implement it directly when creating your presentation slides.

If you are interested in learning more, I also suggest you to read “ The Non Designer’s Design Book – Design and Topographic Principles for the Visual Novice “. This is Robin’s most famous and the best book, which explains basic principle in design for those who are not designers like you and me. Additionally, you can learn the typography aspects such as choosing the right font, size and using colors.

Get The Non- Designer’s Presentation Book at Amazon.Com

2. Slideology – Nancy Duarte

The team who designed presentation for Al Gore was Nancy Duarte , the writer of Slideology –The Art and Science of Creating Great Presentation

This book summarizes almost the entire Nancy’s experiences as a communication consultant at Duarte Design. Interestingly, Nancy has been able to incorporate the corporate presentation approach which is mostly boring with the aesthetical design that makes the message comprehensible and visually beautiful.

Nancy teaches us how to focus on ideas rather than on slides. This book also guides you how to create diagram and present data in an interesting way. You will learn how to present a complex business issue and make it visually simple and understandable.

Get The Slideology at Amazon.com

3. The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs – Carmine Gallo

The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs – How to be Insanely Great in Front of Any Audience shows you the secrets behind Job’s great presentation.

Carmine Gallo conscientiously analyses all presentations delivered by Steve Jobs during his entire career. He writes down the techniques used by this great presenter. The way how Jobs creates headline, how he divides story into three sections, incorporates the demonstration into presentation, and generates momentum to amaze the audience.

I strongly recommended this book, particularly if you hold a high position in the company and you wish to deliver an inspirational corporate presentation like Jobs.

Get The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs at Amazon.com

4. Presentation Zen – Garr Reynolds

Garr who owns the Presentation Zen Blog, explains the philosophy and the culture principles practiced in Japan and Zen, particularly on design approach.

In his book of Presentation Zen- Simple Ideas on Presentation Design and Delivery , Garr points out the importance of simplicity, visual strength and harmony.

Frankly, I might say that this book is slightly difficult compare to the Robin Williams’ one which is simple and to the point. But, if you want to grasp the aesthetical art and to learn how to make presentation slides like the world class designer, then I suggest reading this book.

You can learn more from Presentation Zen Design – Simple Design Principles and Techniques to Enhance Your Presentations which is also written by Garr Reynolds who resides in Japan.

Get Presentation Zen (2nd Edition) at Amazon.com

5. Presentation Secrets – Alexei Kapterev

Alexei is not a designer such as several writers mentioned previously. He even started to focus on presentation in the last few years. However, the book he has written describes how to create and to convey a good presentation.

In this book he tells his recent and previous experiences. Moreover, Alexei is known as the writer of the famous “Death by PowerPoint” which also talks about presentation. He is now working as a consultant and teaching visual communication in Graduate School of Business Administration, at Moscow State University.

Get the Presentation Secrets at Amazon.com

6. Beyond Bullet Points – Cliff Atkinson

One of the strength of this book is it explain presentation structure as unity. You can also separate your slides if you intend to convey your presentation completely or only as a summary.

In Beyond Bullet Points – Using Microsoft PowerPoint to Create Presentations That Inform, Motivate and Inspire , Cliff teaches us the simple way to observe flow of presentation from the audience point of view. He encourages you to create story based on the audience’s perception. Then move the audience from current condition to the better one.

Cliff is also a speaker and a consultant who has been helping many prominent lawyers and Fortune 500 companies. He created a presentation design which had successfully convinced the Juries in a court and won the file suit that was worth of $ 253 million, in 2005.

Get the Beyond Bullet Points Book at Amazon.com

7. Sticky Presentation – Ang Tian Teck

Sticky Presentation – A Different Approach to Presentation Design and Delivery will teach you the concept and the “sticky” approach. It shows you how to convey ideas that could stick and get into the mind of your audience.

This book is unique, because it does not follow the usual format. Reading this book feels like watching a set of slides and practical tips presented in interesting designs.

Get the Sticky Presentation at Kinokuniya Singapore

8. The Visual Slide Revolution – Dave Paradi

Perhaps the slides used as examples are not as attractive as those in other books. But don’t make a wrong conclusion; you will learn so many useful things from this book. For instance, you will learn how to show data changes visually, how to explain complex process in a simple way, and how to choose the right diagram to explain complicated data.

Get The Visual Slide Revolution at Amazon.com

9. Presentasi Memukau (Amazing Presentation) – Muhammad Noer

To overcome this issue, I wrote a book which contains thorough explanation about presentation. This book had been prepared after having accomplished necessary matters. Such as doing research based on valuable resources relating to presentation subject, watching the video of remarkable presentations by great presenters and delivering presentations including the one at the TEDx Jakarta . Hence, I specially present this book for all the loyal visitors of Presentasi.net.

Presentasi Memukau (Amazing Presentation) – Bagaimana Menciptakan Presentasi Luar Biasa (How to Create a Remarkable Presentation) explains comprehensively the aspects that you should acknowledge in order to deliver a great presentation.

You can freely download this book , but other books will require payment. This intention is for good cause, which aims to educate anyone. Hopefully, this book will be a valuable inspiration for presenters in Indonesia to be able to deliver a world class presentation. We are in the process of translating this book into English so you can also enjoy it.

Those are the selected books about presentation that I recommend. Collect and read those best books in presentation. You will learn many things to be a capable presenter who could make a world class design and perform like presenters at TED.

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About Muhammad Noer

Muhammad Noer is a Human Resources Professional who has passion in sharing how to create and deliver a great presentation.

Best Presentation is aiming to give you practical tips on how to create a great presentation. We believe everyone can learn how to create a better presentation, deliver a great speech and show amazing visual slides.

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30 Most Inspirational Books to Read in Your Search for More Meaning

These reads will make you laugh, cry and find a new perspective on life.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

These inspirational books offer a refreshing new way of looking at life to help you feel unstuck. They cross genres including fiction, self-help, poetry and memoir, and they will make you laugh, cry and feel ready to face new challenges. Some of these books have feel-good lessons. Others grapple with terrible tragedies, but remember, it's from overcoming adversity that we build resilience and hope. Whether upbeat or serious, every book on this list has something to teach you about life.

Self-help books like Atomic Habits will help you embrace the power of change and build better habits for life, while spiritual books like Siddhartha offer meditations on happiness and meaning. Some of the best memoirs like Glennon Doyle's Untamed show the importance of embracing yourself, while the best fiction like Life of Pi teaches us the power of storytelling and survival.

No matter the genre, these inspirational reads will help give you new ideas, a change in perspective and a new appreciation for the beauty of life, even with its hardships. What more could you want from a book?

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson

This blunt book tells it like it is, encouraging you to care less about most things so you can focus more on what is actually important to you. It will inspire you to stop sweating the small stuff, stop feeling sorry about your problems and start building resilience and satisfaction in your life.

Life of Pi by Yann Martel

When a ship sinks in the middle of the ocean, there is only one survivor: Pi, a 16-year-old boy who shelters on a lifeboat with a zebra, an orangutan, a hyena and a Bengal tiger. This incredible story of love and survival shows off the awe-inspiring forces of nature and the power of stories to help make sense of hardship.

RELATED: Join the Good Housekeeping Book Club

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

In this fable about following your dreams, an Andalusian shepherd boy named Santiago goes on a quest to discover a hidden treasure in the pyramids. But along the way, he finds a different treasure altogether as he learns more about life, wisdom and the importance of listening to your heart.

I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai with Christina Lamb

Everybody knows the story of Malala, the brave Pakistani girl who stood up against the Taliban for her right to an education and was shot in the head at point blank range on her school bus. Now the youngest Nobel Laureate ever, winning the recognition at only 17, she is an education activist and a champion for girls everywhere.

RELATED: 120 Women Who Changed Our World

Atomic Habits by James Clear

This self-help book offers a straightforward framework for starting new habits and ending bad ones to change your life. Drawing on biology, psychology and neuroscience, this book will help catapult your progress forward to accomplish your goals.

RELATED: Best Self-Help Books to Buy

Untamed by Glennon Doyle

Part memoir, part self-help book, Glennon Doyle's Untamed is a manifesto for women to live their best and boldest life . She encourages you to leave people pleasing at the door, listen to your inner voice and practice the bravery to chase what you want, living a life untamed.

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo

Marie Kondo is a name that has become synonymous with decluttering — and for good reason. Her trademark strategies of only keeping items that spark joy and thanking items for their service when you are done with them will inspire you to have a cleaner home and simpler life.

RELATED: Must-Read Books by Asian and Pacific Islander Authors

The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

A classic beloved by children and adults alike, The Little Prince is a French fable about a young prince's travels through space. Exploring themes of love, loss, loneliness and friendship, this book has been touching hearts for generations.

Becoming by Michelle Obama

This former-First Lady's memoir describes her childhood with her working class family on the South Side of Chicago all the way through her years in the White House. Throughout, she handles challenges with poise, becoming a role model for achieving your dreams and maintaining grace under pressure.

The Essential Rumi translated by Coleman Barks

Rumi was a 13th century Persian poet and Islamic Sufi mystic. Touching on love, faith, nature and freedom, his work is full of beautiful images and inspirational lines you are sure to take with you long after you close this volume of poetry.

A Man Called Ove: A Novel by Fredrik Backman

A curmudgeonly old man terrorizes the neighborhood until a chatty young couple and their daughters move in next door and truly get to know him. This funny and heartwarming tale highlights the impact one life can have on countless people.

Siddhartha: A Novel by Herman Hesse

Siddartha is the philosophical story of a young man's search for wisdom during the time of the Buddha. He leaves his family to find his own path, trying meditation, asceticism, worldly indulgences, love and more to find the path to true enlightenment and happiness.

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

Unhappy in her marriage and her life, Elizabeth Gilbert divorces her husband and travels the world to find herself in this memoir. With humor and compassion, she searches for pleasure in Italy, spirituality in India and love in Bali, ultimately finding what she needs to start her life again.

Devotions: Selected Poems by Mary Oliver

Mary Oliver is a contemporary American poet inspired by the natural world and its links to the sacred. Her beautiful imagery and simple language offer moving meditations on love and nature, painting the world around us in a clearer light. This volume contains her favorite works from across her career.

Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl

This harrowing memoir of Frankl's time in a Nazi concentration camp is an intense but powerful read. Although it's a difficult subject, Frankl writes both psychologically and philosophically about finding meaning even in the face of unimaginable circumstances.

Walden by Henry David Thoreau

In 1845, Henry David Thoreau moved to live in a small shack he helped build on the shores of Lake Walden in Massachusetts. He lived there for two years in isolation, seeking to better understand the world, society and nature. Meditative and insightful, these are his observations.

The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion

Following the sudden loss of her husband while their daughter was in a coma, Joan Didion wrote this book about her grief. Raw and heart wrenching, it's a moving meditation on love, illness and family.

The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz Don Miguel Ruiz

In this classic book of wisdom, Don Miguel Ruiz shares four key insights from his Mexican Toltec ancestors to stop self-limiting behaviors and improve your life.

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

How do you gracefully face your own death? And what makes life worth living? These are the questions neurosurgeon Paul Kalanithi must ask when he is diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer while he has a young son. This is a wrenching but profound look at life and death.

Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles

The Japanese concept of ikigai means purpose: It's what happens when what you love, what you’re good at, what you can make money doing, and what the world needs overlap. This volume delves into how to find it, and how it's brought long life and happiness to the Japanese village that has the highest percentage of 100-year-olds.

Sarah Vincent (she/her) covers the latest and greatest in books and all things pets for Good Housekeeping . She double majored in Creative Writing and Criminal Justice at Loyola University Chicago, where she sat in the front row for every basketball game. In her spare time, she loves cooking, crafting, studying Japanese, and, of course, reading.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} All the Best Books to Read Next

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Why Republicans are calling Walz 'Tampon Tim' — and why Democrats embrace it

Rachel Treisman

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, pictured at a campaign rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday, is getting attention for a law he signed last year requiring public schools to provide free period products. Matt Rourke/AP hide caption

For more on the 2024 election, head to the NPR Network's live updates page.

Republican critics of Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz have given him a new nickname: “Tampon Tim.”

After Vice President Harris announced her pick , Stephen Miller, a former adviser to former President Donald Trump, tweeted , “She actually chose Tampon Tim.” Chaya Raichik, who runs the far-right social media account Libs of TikTok, photoshopped Walz’s face onto a Tampax box.

#TamponTim pic.twitter.com/eBPyEOSWPC — Chaya Raichik (@ChayaRaichik10) August 6, 2024

“Tampon Tim is hands down the best political nickname ever,” tweeted conservative commentator Liz Wheeler. “It’s so… savagely effective. In one word tells you EVERYTHING you need to know about Tim Walz’s dangerous radicalism.”

The moniker refers to a law that Walz, the governor of Minnesota, signed last year, requiring public schools to provide menstrual products — including pads and tampons — to students in 4th through 12th grades.

The products are free for students, with the state paying about $2 per pupil to keep them stocked throughout the school year.

Takeaways from Tim Walz's introduction to the national stage

The law, which was the result of years of advocacy by students and their allies, took effect on Jan. 1, though students say the rollout has so far been smoother in some school districts than others .

It makes Minnesota one of 28 states (and Washington D.C.) that have passed laws aimed at giving students access to menstrual products in schools, according to the Alliance for Period Supplies.

The issue enjoys broad popular support: 30 states have eliminated state sales tax on menstrual products, and Trump himself signed a 2018 package that requires federal prisons to provide them.

But Republicans appear to be taking issue with the wording of the legislation, which says the products must be available “to all menstruating students in restrooms regularly used by students.”

Some Minnesota Republicans initially tried to limit the initiative to female-assigned and gender-neutral bathrooms, but were unsuccessful. Even the author of that amendment ultimately voted for the final version of the bill, saying his family members “felt like it was an important issue I should support.”

The bill’s inclusive language reflects that not all people who menstruate are women, and not all women get periods, which was important to those who lobbied for the legislation.

“It will make it more comfortable for everyone … then people can use whatever restroom they want without being worried,” Bramwell Lundquist, then 15, told MPR News last year.

But some in the Republican Party — which has increasingly promoted anti-transgender policies and rhetoric — see that aspect of the bill as a reason to attack Walz.

“Tim Walz is a weird radical liberal,” the MAGA War Room account posted on X, formerly Twitter. “What could be weirder than signing a bill requiring schools to stock tampons in boys' bathrooms?”

'Midwestern Nice' and 'Fun Dad' posts abound after Tim Walz is named VP pick

Trump campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt made a similar argument in a Tuesday appearance on Fox News .

“As a woman, I think there is no greater threat to our health than leaders who support gender-transition surgeries for young minors, who support putting tampons in men’s bathrooms in public schools,” she said. “Those are radical policies that Tim Walz supports. He actually signed a bill to do that.”

LGBTQ rights groups have cheered Walz’s selection and praised his track record, which includes a 2023 executive order making Minnesota one of the first states to safeguard access to gender-affirming health care, as dozens of states seek to ban it .

Walz, who once earned the title “ most inspiring teacher ” at the high school where he taught and coached football, hasn’t responded publicly to the “Tampon Tim” taunts. But he had strong words for his Republican opponents on Tuesday night.

“I'll just say it: Donald Trump and JD Vance are creepy and, yes, weird,” he tweeted , repeating the put-down he helped popularize in recent days. “We are not going back.”

Many on the left see “Tampon Tim” as a compliment

Democratic Minnesota Rep. Sandra Feist, the chief sponsor of the bill in the state House, sold it as a "wise investment" , explaining to her colleagues last year that “one out of every 10 menstruating youth miss school” due to a lack of access to menstrual products and resources.

She defended it again in a tweet on Wednesday morning, saying she was grateful to have partnered with Walz to address period poverty .

“This law exemplifies what we can accomplish when we listen to students to address their needs,” she wrote. “Excited to see MN representation at the top of the ticket!”

Feist ended the tweet with the hashtag #TamponTim.

Other Democratic figures have embraced both the hashtag and the policy behind it.

The case for free tampons and pads in schools

Many social media users responded that providing tampons in schools isn’t the bad thing that Republicans are making it out to be — and in fact, they see it as the opposite.

Former presidential candidate Hillary Clinton said it was “nice of the Trump camp to help publicize Gov. Tim Walz’s compassionate and common-sense policy,” adding, “Let’s do this everywhere.”

Former Georgia State Rep. Bee Nguyen said Walz, as a former teacher, understands how the lack of access to menstrual products impacts educational outcomes.

“This makes me an even bigger fan of Tampon Tim,” she added.

Nearly 1 in 4 students have struggled to afford period products in the United States, according to a 2023 study commissioned by Thinx and PERIOD. Experts say period poverty is more than just a hassle : It’s an issue of public and personal health, dignity and more.

The Minnesota students who lobbied for the bill testified last year about having to miss class because they were unable to afford menstrual products, being distracted from schoolwork and tests and feeling that adults didn’t take their concern seriously.

“We cannot learn while we are leaking,” high school student Elif Ozturk, then 16, told a legislative hearing in 2023. “How do we expect our students to carry this burden with them during the school day and still perform well? The number one priority should be to learn, not to find a pad.”

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A Bill Gates-Recommended Read Is The Bestselling Book Of The Year So Far

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A brand new historical fiction read from veteran New York Times bestselling author and Forbes 50 Over 50 honoree Kristin Hannah has easily sold more copies than any other book released in 2024 so far, according to data provided to Forbes by Circana Bookscan, a standout among a list that is otherwise dominated by fantasy, thrillers and romance novels.

Kristin Hanna, author of "The Women."

“The Women” by Kristin Hannah, which tells a fictional story of military nurses serving in Vietnam, is the bestselling book released in 2024 so far with 829,115 print copies sold, Circana data shows, almost more than the next two bestsellers combined.

The billionaire co-founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, included "The Women" as the only fiction book on his suggested summer reading list , calling the novel a "beautifully written tribute to a group of veterans who deserve more appreciation for the incredible sacrifices they made."

“House of Flame and Shadow,” the third book in Sarah J. Maas ’s fantasy Crescent City series, is the second-best-selling new release with 536,346 print sales and “Funny Story,” a romance by Emily Henry, has sold 300,289 print copies in third place.

"The Teacher," a thriller from bestselling author Freida McFadden, and “Bride,” a paranormal romance by Ali Hazelwood, are the No. 4 and 5 bestselling new releases with 289,949 and 233,955 print copies sold, respectively.

This list of bestselling 2024 releases counts adult U.S. print sales from Dec. 31, 2023 through June 8 by Circana BookScan.

Top 10 Books Of 2024 (fiction And Nonfiction)

• "The Women" by Kristin Hannah (829,115 print copies sold)
• "House of Flame and Shadow" by Sarah J. Maas (536,346 print copies sold)
• "Funny Story" by Emily Henry (300,289 print copies sold)
• "The Teacher" by Freida McFadden (289,949 print copies sold)
• "Bride" by Ali Hazelwood (233,955 print copies sold)
• "Just For the Summer" by Abby Jimenez (229,989 print copies sold)
• "First Lie Wins" by Ashley Elston (208,730 print copies sold)
• "The Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haidt (192,535)
• "The Demon of Unrest" by Erik Larson (163,063 print copies sold)
• "You Like It Darker" by Stephen King (154,645 print copies sold)

300 million. That's how many print books sold in 2024 through the week of June 1, according to Circana, down 1.9 million units from the same time last year. Of that, 1.6% can be attributed to a single author: Maas.

Suprising Fact

Overall print book sales are down almost 2 million from this time last year, according to Circana data. Fiction books make up eight of the top 10 new bestsellers so far this year and contributed to a 3.6% rise in adult fiction sales in the first quarter of 2024, Publishers Weekly reported, while nonfiction sales dropped 5.8% from the same sale period last year. "The Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haidt and “The Demon of Unrest" by Erik Larson were the only two nonfiction books to rank among the top of 2024’s new releases so far.

Key Background

"The Women" is not Hannah's first bestselling book. The 63-year-old wrote her first book in her 20s, but has released a series of bestsellers in her 50s and 60s, earning her a spot on Forbes 50 Over 50. Her 2008 release "Firefly Lane," which was later turned into a Netflix original series, spent more than 20 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list and she found further success in the last decades with "The Nightingale" (2015), "The Great Alone" (2018) and "The Four Winds" (2021). "The Nightingale" was a No. 1 New York Times bestseller and was named a Wall Street Journal Best Book of the Year. Elle and Dakota Fanning are set to star in a film adaptation of the novel. Hannah has sold more than 25 million books in almost 40 languages, according to Macmillan Publishers .

Three of the authors whose 2024 releases are among the year's bestsellers are also listed as 2024’s bestselling BookTok authors , a collection of writers who have shot to fame on the video sharing app. Sarah J. Maas, Emily Henry and Freida McFadden are also among the year's bestselling BookTok authors of the year with 7.2 million combined sales so far this year (of their new releases and of books released before 2024).

Further Reading

One BookTok Author Sold More Books This Year Than The Top 10 New Books Combined (Forbes)

Here’s What Billionaire Bill Gates Recommends You Read And Watch This Summer (Forbes)

50 Over 50 - Lifestyle 2023 (Forbes)

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Sauda Mitchell is a community supporter, certified archivist, educator, and multidisciplinary artist who has dedicated over twenty years to the arts, libraries, and archives. Sauda Mitchell holds an MS in Library and Information Science from Drexel University, a BA in Communication Art with a minor in Art History, and an AA degree in Elementary Education. Sauda is pursuing an EdD at Drexel University, furthering her research on student access to archives-based engagement and primary source analysis as a catalyst for elevated cognitive development. Mitchell is a lead archivist at The Winthrop Group Inc. and a Sawtooth School for Visual Art, printmaking, and book arts instructor.

Sauda’s work uses a unique approach that combines primary source research with printmaking and QR code technology, serving as a creative, non-traditional access method. This method links viewers to archival repositories, curated exhibitions, and aggregated data, providing a visual response to archival collection materials and the diverse stories they hold.

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How to Find the Best Events for YOU at the National Book Festival

August 8, 2024

Posted by: Sasha Dowdy

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This is a guest post by Nora Smolonsky, a 2024 Junior Fellow on the Literary Initiatives Team.

With a vast selection of 83 books featured at the 2024 National Book Festival, how can you find out which ones feature a topic you want to read about? Attendees can search the Festival schedule using keywords to make the most out of their day and discover books and authors they may not have otherwise encountered.

The Literary Initiatives team, including the Junior Fellows and interns, curated keywords to tag each session. There are 51 keywords festival attendees can use. These were created to provide insight into the content of the work and background of the authors—below are some useful examples:

You asked and we delivered! Based on feedback from past festival attendees, we created the “ Dragons ” tag so you can search the Festival schedule to find events spotlighting everyone’s favorite scaly, flying, fire-breathing mythical creature.

In addition to tags describing the content and genre of each book, there are also keywords describing the identities of authors and characters represented in their work. Searching with the keyword “ LGBTQ +” will allow attendees to discover all books written by openly LGBTQ+ authors or authors who represent that community in their work.

The “ Science and Technology ” keyword allows attendees to learn which events have content related to STEM. In addition to featuring books about science and technology, the STEM District area on the expo floor will bring science to life with live demonstrations. Searching the schedule with the keyword “Science and Technology” will provide attendees with every event in this category.

The Story District area on the expo floor will also feature children’s, middle grade and young adult authors presenting live readings from their books! Searching the schedule for “ Story Readings ” will allow you to plan your day around the live readings you and the young reader in your life are most excited for.

This year’s National Book Festival truly has something for everyone, and we hope you can find exactly what you’re looking for via our keyword filters. We can’t wait to see you for the Festival at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on August 24, 2024!

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