Thank You for Coming to My TED Talk

The "Head of TED" [see note 1] delivers general advice and inspiring examples aimed at helping young people speak to audiences "with confidence and courage." [2] Distilled, or in spots transferred with minor massaging, from his adult oriented Ted Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking (2016) [see note 2] the broad guidelines (summarized as "breathe, play, and practice, practice, practice.") [3] echo those in similar handbooks--but as the long time curator of the TED series Anderson does bring authority to his observations and name recognition, or at least unusual cogency, to his examples: "If it's worth Bill Gate's time to rehearse, it's probably worth your time too."[67] Though he does offer some practical tips on preparing and using scripts and slides, his chief focus is on defining principles of "presentation literacy" [6] that will serve in any situation from class reports or podium lectures to job interviews--starting out with an interest building teaser, [83ff] for instance, having a topical or thematic "throughline," [14] and framing talks to leave audiences with the "gift of delight" [73] rather than "compassion fatigue." [21] The result is more exhortation than checklist or worksheet, but may help readers frozen by anxiety or fear of failure over the hump.Pared down, but still an effective pep talk: "Are you ready? Let's go light a fire." [8] (Index) (Self help. 11-14)

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February 1, 2020

Gr 6-9-Anderson, the curator of TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design), and co-writer Oberweger provide an accessible guidebook to prepare teens for public speaking. This concise yet comprehensive book is filled with tips, tricks, and constructive guidelines. Brief, organized chapters offer very specific ideas and suggestions. A variety of famous writers and presenters, including those who have taken the TED stage, are quoted and referenced throughout the text. Although some of the featured people may not be familiar to all readers, their words and advice are useful and fascinating. This readable and informative work contains many elements that could be useful beyond a TED Talk. VERDICT Recommended for general purchase. A quick read and helpful reference source for anyone planning to conduct a public presentation.-Kristyn Dorfman, The Nightingale-Bamford School, New York City

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February 15, 2020
Grades 7-12 Most people?whether young or adult?fear speaking before an audience, regardless of its composition or size. Anderson, head of TED Conferences, seeks to mitigate this fear through this teen-oriented crash course in public speaking and presentation. He captures readers' attentions in the compelling introduction by relating the experience of a 12-year-old girl as she steps on stage to give a TED talk to an audience of 1,200 people. Moving into his message, he asks readers to consider the point of their talk, noting that at least one person in your life is sure to be a Rambler. How can one avoid this dreaded designation? Focus and tell the truth of your story. Then, prepare, prepare, prepare. Short chapters with bullet-point lists and anecdotes prompt teens to share their presentation or speech with another person, seek input and criticism, make corrections, and prepare some more. Anderson's tips and tools for onstage presentation are solid, practical, and easily adaptable. This approachable, encouraging guide will help teens step on stage or behind a podium with confidence.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)