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From Booklist, Copyright © American Library Association. Used with permission.

When lawyer Fisher wrote his first social media posts giving communication advice, he was shocked at the overwhelming response. This led to speaking engagements and writing this book. Fisher’s methods are straightforward and concrete. The goal is to teach readers to speak assertively but respectively and set boundaries when being confronted. The body reacts to words and situations by becoming defensive, and Fisher offers steps to combat these natural urges. Conversation is not about winning an argument, he says, but making a connection. He begins by discussing ways to connect with yourself, and then moves on to connecting with others. His techniques include listening for the emotions beneath the words, beginning with a breath, and trying to understand rather than win points. Important conversations need to be planned ahead and framed to keep both talkers on track, and the author guides readers through the process. Fisher has a conversational tone and includes stories from his practice to illustrate points. In these times of heated conversations and political unrest, Fisher’s common sense ways and solid practices are pure gold.