Say It Like Obama: The Power of Speaking with Purpose and Vision

I never noticed how structured some speeches are before reading this book. After looking at several annotated speeches in this book, it is quite clear why Obama's speeches resonate so well. When I listen to him now, I recognize that he speaks in threes and fives. Read this book to find out more. The author's love of Obama comes through in this book. However, it does not matter whether you are a fan of Obama or not. If you are trying to improve your speaking skills, this will be a great help. Try also Speak With Confidence : Powerful Presentations That Inform, Inspire and Persuade, 101 Secrets of Highly Effective Speakers, 3rd Edition: Controlling Fear, Commanding Attention, and How to Give Your Best Speech or Presentation Ever: A Step-by-Step Manual for Speaking in Public.

Whatever your political views, you will learn a lot from this book, which decontructs his talks and explains why they work so well. Learn the rule of threes; understand the power of rhetorical and non-rhetorical questions; exploit the use and nonuse of "and" in a sentance. Lots more, including the key one of "show, don't tell. She ends with his acceptance speech and challenges you to deconstruct the speech and spot the techiques. And, in a clever marketing move she does not give you the answers, but directs you to her website where she provides them. First rate stuff.

You look at Obama speak and you can't help but to be in awe of him. He captivates his audience with his passion. This book specifically focuses on how to draw in and hold the attention of your audience. It details everything from use body language to driving home your points. I wish I had this book years ago! Another great book, Dr. Leanne! Y. Stevens

This is a most compelling read. Especially the chapters on Breaking Down Barriers (3), Driving Points Home )6), and Persuading (7). It is a book that I would highly recommend to college undergrads, graduate students, professors, and anyone who aspires to become an audacious speaker like Barack Obama. Shel Leanne is an excellent author. I have read her other books, Joshua's Bible, and How to Interview Like a Top MBA. M. Geiger

I don't think anyone can dispute the fact that Senator Barack Obama is an amazing speaker and has the power to move people with his words of hope. Shel Leanne has been able to clearly and meticulously analyze some of Obama's most well known speeches and highlight for the reader various aspects of his oratory gift and the brilliance of his delivery. This is definitely a must read for anyone who wishes to connect with their audience irrespective of the setting. -- S.G. Richardson