SIMPLY SPEAKING

"We are media-savvy," Peggy Noonan says in this audio guide to public speaking. She means that we, as a nation, are influenced by television, so many of us know how to behave in front of a camera. But speeches are more difficult than being on TV because audiences expect speakers to be at their best since they've had time to prepare. Noonan addresses with a strong and clear voice why public speaking is America's number one fear and how to combat this fear. Her tones seem best suited to political commentary, and that could put off listeners who need guidance in the corporate or even casual arenas. However, her pauses between major points and transitional thoughts keep the audiobook flowing and easy to understand, making it a useful tool. R.A.P. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 99]