The World's Best Book Summaries
What’s any story really about—regardless of its plot? What function does conflict serve in a narrative? Writer Lisa Cron contends that stories are about how we, rather than the world around us, change. That change is driven by conflict. Humans are wired to resist both conflict and change. But, ultimately, we know that this is how anything moves forward. Keep reading to learn about the element of conflict in a narrative.
What are some common uncomfortable body language cues? What might you be able to tell by observing their arms and feet? Joe Navarro, a retired FBI Special Agent, is no stranger to people feeling uncomfortable around him. Over time, he realized that certain subtle behaviors pointed to uneasiness. In The Dictionary of Body Language, he shares three cues for identifying discomfort in somebody’s body language. Keep reading to learn how to tell if someone is uncomfortable by observing their actions.
Do you want to talk about your thoughts and feelings more? What are the top Fierce Conversations quotes that stick in your head? Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott is a guide to having effective dialogue at work or in your personal life. After reading this book, you’ll have all the skills you need to solve issues and achieve happiness in life. Continue reading for the best Fierce Conversations quotes to remember.
How does a well-written story fill our need to understand the reasons behind everything? What does “Show, don’t tell” mean for writers? In Wired for Story, Lisa Cron argues that our brains evolved to absorb information through stories. So, writers must write in a way that satisfies our brains’ expectations of story. This includes creating causal links that appeal to the brain’s need for cause-and-effect structure. Continue reading to learn about the need for cause and effect in a story and how to achieve it.
Can you detect confident body language in other people? Do you exhibit subtle behaviors that communicate to others that you’re confident and comfortable? In The Dictionary of Body Language, Joe Navarro offers a reference guide that explains a wide breadth of body language cues. He argues that, with this knowledge, you can improve your relationships and understanding of other people, both at work and in your personal life. Continue reading to learn how to tell if someone is confident at the moment.
What are Fierce Conversations’ models for truthful discussions? How can you have a productive conversation in small and large groups? In Fierce Conversations, Susan Scott explains that you must choose an effective conversational model to structure important discussions. Following a conversational model is crucial because it allows you to respectfully introduce the topic and learn from all perspectives. Below are two models from Fierce Conversations that you can use for small groups or large meetings.
What’s the point of small talk? Why is it important to be skilled at it? Life is full of conversations—in both personal and professional settings. In Better Small Talk, Patrick King shows how you can improve the quality of your small talk and use it to shift conversations into more interesting and meaningful territory. Continue reading for an overview of this practical and relevant book.
Are you prepared to start meaningful conversations and keep them going? Do you have a conversation résumé? If you were to have one, what would go on it? To get better at any sort of conversation, you need to prepare to have it beforehand—in the same way you should warm up your muscles before running a race. Social interaction specialist Patrick King shares five conversation preparation techniques to set you up for greater success in conversations. Keep reading to learn how to always be prepared for quality conversations.
When a reader starts to read your story, what are they looking for? What must you give them if you want them to keep reading? Lisa Cron asserts that stories satisfy neurological needs that humans evolved over millennia. So, good writers understand these needs and satisfy them as they craft their stories. Arguably, the primary thing that readers require is a good reason to keep reading past the first page. Read more to discover how to hook a reader by fulfilling their immediate need.
How can you tell if someone is genuinely excited to see you? What excited body language behavior is also a tai chi move? We all exhibit subtle physical behaviors that put our emotions on display to those who are skilled in interpreting body language. Joe Navarro teaches these skills in his book The Dictionary of Body Language. Read more to learn what Navarro has to say about behaviors that point to excitement.