Just Say a Few Words

by Bob Monkhouse

This practical book contains advice on all aspects and techniques of public speech-making from mastering stage fright to shaping your speeches, moving in and out of humour, openings and endings, and short cuts to winning over your audience.

208 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1990

Reviews

[Guy Clapperton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've given this four stars because it would be unfair to judge the work of someone who died in 2003 by the standards of 2020 - but you do need to be prepared to sift a little whilst reading this. Monkhouse was an excellent speaker and comedian but some of his material was based on overly talkative wives, bosses being overly careful with their money and a lot that seems dated.

What the heck. He passed away almost two decades ago and the kernel of his advice - clarity, being in sympathy with the audience, doing your research, harnessing rather than fearing nerves - stands up completely. I've been a professional speaker for decades and in spite of the age of the book I found myself nodding in agreement and making a number of notes.

You'll need to sift a little and take what you want from this book. But it's worth adding to any speaker's shelf.

[Sophie Crane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE Bob Monkhouse. Such a talented man, and this book is an absolute joy!

[Sandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a book for beginners on how to find their voice when asked to do a speech or toast at a wedding. This is also a very reading as the author has a great sense of humor. The back of the book is full of funny things to say at someone's wedding (or should I say ways to not get invited to toast at the next wedding?) and these will make you laugh out loud. Things like: "the wedding license is very valuable, so keep it in a safe. It's needed if you ever plan to get a divorce." (p. 83).

Funny!