Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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16 of 19 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
the book that flirts..., 11 Jun 2007
So, a book that tells us quite categorically how to write? Well, no, not at all; it's a book that suggests and introduces, smiles winningly and even, at times, flirts with the reader - this is engaging not-so-common sense mixed with insight, confidently self-deprecating expertise and a very generous helping of good humour. There's no dogged insistence in this book, we are at liberty to take what we want from it. But there's a sense of smiling confidence that we will actually be taking quite a lot of it, because it is, as one might expect, a very persuasive book indeed.
The general message is that the awareness of what we say, why and how we say it and who we say it to makes the crucial difference in building effective relationships between reader and writer. This is a book primarily about persuasive writing, but with a more universal application - in this era of complex communication choices, it encourages us to step back and consider whether we actually know what we're trying to do, before we try to do it.
The information is astute, concise, well-ordered, entertaining and attractive, in all a superb illustration of it's own message - I introduced this book to my son, currently studying for GCSE's and experiencing a pronounced state of English Language cynicism; not only did he actively enjoy the read but his resultant appreciation of another, more interesting level of written communication spurred him on to greater things and 3 A's in his subsequent English exams.
This is a book that deserves respect and earns it. I very much enjoyed reading it and would recommend it to all those who want their words to count.
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13 of 17 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
An art or craft you can't do without, 29 Jun 2007
I knew that I needed some help with my writing and specifically how to engage with readers and persuade them. So, I was looking around at what there was on Amazon and was not really captivated. However, this one looked good, bearing in mind the comments and at seven quid, it was worth a punt. If nothing else, it should be fun! I have been surprised to find that not only has it inspired me to be more expressive, yet structured, with my writing it has helped me find that inner voice. (You know, that one that is speaking to you now). By giving some great ground rules and communicating the need for strong and successful writing, he has delivered a book that takes you on a linguistic journey which is engaging, informative and entertaining.
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20 of 27 people found the following review helpful:
2.0 out of 5 stars
Save 6.99, today!, 4 Nov 2008
Okay, I admit it: the five star reviews persuaded me. Yes, I thought it odd that some of the reviewers referred to the author by his first name, but I went ahead anyway. What was I thinking?
I was expecting tips on how to write catchy opening lines. Or maybe some little subliminal tricks like the one used on the front cover, behind that odd title (the author's fans may say that the title itself is a little persuasive trick. I would say it's just a bad title). Suffice it to say, good tips were hard to find.
The author's best tip? 'Remember the reader and the result.' Fine. Obvious, but fine. Another gem - 'I don't think of a compelling opening line, I feel for one.' Fair enough, but that's not really a useful tip, is it? You don't find many cookbooks that say 'Just cook the food until you feel it's ready.'
And so it goes. The author states many times that he's not telling us what to write, but how to write. But if the best advice he can offer is to feel for compelling opening lines, then he shouldn't be writing books like this. If you get the chance, read the blurb on the back of the book. For a persuasive writer, it's very poor work.
Can I Change Your Mind? AKA Go On Pick Me Up is 230+ pages of pure filler. Unfortunately, I can't offer you an alternative, since this was my first dip into the world of learning persuasive writing. Don't let it be yours. Look elsewhere and save yourself 6.99, today.
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