Stand-Up Comedy: The Book

From the first page I was hooked. After finishing it I'm reading parts of it again. The techniques used in this book work. I purposely tried what I used to do on stage & Judy's techniques in the same set & Judy's received more laughs. This book is in fact the bible for anyone getting in to the business from Stand up's to comedy writers, to people looking to do one man/woman shows. It spans so many areas within comedy, even developing ideas for spec scripts for sitcoms. I've already recommended this book to two aspiring writers & one comic & I will update this review with their reactions, I know they'll be impressed. If you're out there looking to get in to stand up GET THIS BOOK!!, it's straight to the point & yes its long but for those of us without A.D.D. we can handle it!. JD Hazelwood says, "The author tells you all these "no no's " that you can't do in stand up comedy, that I hear comedians doing all the time." The idea of stand up is to become your own stand up comic, not to follow the crowd. Finding your own nitch is the key, not doing what everyone else does. Otherwise you're a "HACK!" No disrespect, but I recommend JD read this book again and this time think only about what you're capable of doing & try out Judy's techniques, you've got nothing to lose & so much to gain.

I started doing stand-up after taking a class. I must say this book was better than the class! Everything you need to develop your own funny monologue. Even if you decide not to pursue a career as a comedian, you can improve your sense of humor which will help you in your communication skills. What is funny is usually something with a surprise at the end. Another funny topic is a known truth that society tries to keep under the rugs. The life as a comedian is rough, no pay and minimum required guests (at least in NYC). In addition to excerpts of monologues from famous comedians, this book also offers encouragement to beginners. It was told that during Arsenio Hall's first time at stand-up, he walked out the door when they announced his name. So don't feel bad if you get nervous.

Judy Carter gives in detail what it takes to develope ones own act for stand up comedy. Her tips and workshops are great stepping tools that allow those that find it hard to free associate begin to. Stand-Up Comedy: The Book, does not leave the reader alone with tools to become a comedian but also advice. From getting up there for the first time and the "no's" that go along with that, to the booking of your first major performance, she gives all the advice one needs. If you so desire to be a comedian than this book is a must