Book Review: "The Gettysburg Approach to Writing & Speaking Like a Professional" by Philip Yaffe

The Gettysburg  Approach to Writing & Speaking Like a Professional
Author: Philip Yaffe
Publisher: INDI Best, INDI Publishing Group
ISBN: 9780978924751

            Have you ever sat down and tried to write something that would appeal to others, only to find that your writing seems dull to either you, or whoever reads it?  Have you ever attempted to give a speech only to feel many people are not convinced by what you attempt to convey? Know that you are not alone.

            Poor writing and speaking styles (in spite of correct grammar and spelling) exist throughout our world today. Dull, uninteresting writing and speaking are also one of the greatest foes to readers and writers alike. However, “The Gettysburg Approach to Writing & Speaking Like a Professional” is an excellent resource for making your work more appealing to everyone, no mater what your personal background may be. The author, Mr. Philip Yaffe, a marketing communication consultant and a former feature writer of the Wall Street Journal, seeks to improve writing and speaking styles for anyone willing to learn.  This even includes those of you who speak English as a second language.

            Considering that the book is targeted at such a large audience, can it really help you write better? Can it even help you if you think you are already “good” at writing and speaking? Absolutely!

Mr. Yaffe focuses on several errors most people unconsciously make, even if they are excellent at grammar and spelling. He successfully teaches writing and speaking in ways that truly appeal and attract an audience by focusing on:

• Personal attitude
• Sentence structure
• Better organizing your ideas
• “Clarity,” “Conciseness,” and “Density”
• Grammar usage and style
• Differences between public speaking vs. writing
• Tips for improving you presentations
• And much, much more!

            Are you in a pinch for time? Remember, this book was designed to fit your lifestyle. You only need to invest about 5-15 minutes at a time. Most of the material is organized for easy comprehension and digestion, whether you read the material over a relatively shorter or longer timeframe.

The quality of the information that you will gain from this book is excellent! Material is well organized, clear and easy to understand. Even the writing style itself may occasionally seem entertaining to read.

However, there may be a slight bit of disappointment for readers. Although the title contains the phrase, “Gettysburg Approach,” the book seems to be malnourished in terms of Lincoln or his Gettysburg Address. Although this speech is critiqued and referenced on occasion, it seems like it is only a side-note in comparison with the book as a whole.

But do not let this deter you, because the information and methods in this book are well worth your time.

Overall, Mr. Yaffe effectively shows you how to better write and speak in ways to attract readers and listeners. Just reading an excerpt of his writing can demonstrate that these methods are bound towards success. Know that your time will be well invested by reading this book.

            On a personal note, I would highly recommend this book to everyone. It revealed many of my personal errors that I make in writing. Although I considered my writing “good,” given the grades I received in class, this book has helped me better refine my own style. Now, I am much more critical of my writing.

“The Gettysburg Approach to Writing & Speaking Like a Professional” is truly worth the time spent reading it. I believe you will do more of an injustice to your writing by avoiding this book.

Book was provided by author for us to use and honestly review.