A SURVIVAL GUIDE

Book Talks

Know Your Audience

Consider the interests of your audienceChoose a book with broad rather than narrow

appealSelect a book at the reading level of your

audience

Book Selection Tips

Choose a book you loveNever choose a book you haven’t readSelect a book that others will enjoy but one

they might not otherwise notice

Develop Your Speaking Skills

Wear clothes you’ll feel good about that won’t be too distracting

Make eye contact with your audienceShow your audience you like them and the

book by your tone of voice and mannerismsRelax and smile at your listenersPractice in front of a mirror

Presentation Format: Introduction

Display the book, stating the title and authorTell the genre and author details if possibleDiscuss the setting of the bookIntroduce the main character(s) and your

opinions of them

Presentation Format: Continued

Briefly discuss the conflict of the book—but never reveal the resolution; you have to “hook” your readers

Give your opinion of the book’s themeState why you would recommend this book or

to what audience you would recommend itNever book talk a book you wouldn’t

recommend

Pointers

Limit your book talk to under five minutesTry to relate an interesting event from the

book that is typical of the entire bookMake the book talk interesting so that your

audience will want to read the book Do not reveal the conclusion of the book—let

your listeners read the book to find out what happens for themselves

Recommendations

Remember: A book talk is not a review; think of it like a movie trailer

Start with an attention-grabberEnd with a cliff-hangerMake an outline on paperRead the book jacket or book reviews for

ideasPractice!