Inviting Transformation: Presentational Speaking for a Changing World

by Sonja K. Foss, Karen A. Foss

The third edition of Inviting Transformation continues to offer a refreshing, innovative approach to public speaking, or what the authors call presentational speaking to acknowledge that not all important speaking occurs in formal public settings. The book introduces readers to invitational rhetoric, a mode of communicating that offers an effective response to the diversity that characterizes the world. Respect for the diversity of the world also is emphasized in the book in that the traditional speaking model has been expanded to include speaking options that characterize diverse cultural groups. For all of the processes of presenting--such as selecting a speaking goal, organizing ideas, elaborating on ideas, and delivering the presentation--the book includes and validates more inclusive speaking practices. The exceptionally accessible writing style and reasonable price make this concise text attractive for students and instructors alike.

Genres: Communication, Nonfiction

202 pages, Paperback

Published July 1, 2002

Reviews

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This textbook was a really interesting approach to teaching public speaking. It has some common elements that we have come to expect basic course comm. texts, but they are often given different labels or are framed in a new way. In most instances, this is a good thing and I picked up a lot about the invitational approach. There are even some defined terms, such as "thesis," I liked enough to incorporate into my teaching this year. If anything, I think this approach may be more reflective of the public speaking experience students today will have in rooms outside the classroom.

That said, there are some concepts in the text that I don't think are handled well and are not discussed in a critical, inviting manner. I would also argue that, despite the nature of invitational speaking, the failure to address logic in a substantive way is an oversight. I know there's a new edition of this book, so I would be interested to see what's changed.

I'm stuck as to whether I should use this book for an intro text or an advanced text. It's a solid textbook, but I'm not sure about where it would be best applied in my current institution.

[Mano (Leslie) · Rating 5 out of 5]

So far , so great... any book which can use invitational speaking as a way to illustrate basic laws of dynamics in the human species in just the first chapter, deserves my boast. Written by the Communication department head (I believe) at CU Denver, & her sister at U of NM, the fact that they are discussing modes of communication I've been able to understand in root ways due to having learned concepts of interdependence and respect from indigenous values and philosophy is pretty much blowing me away.
I am psyched to apply these concepts to my presentational speaking style, and incorporate this information into youth facilitator workshops to come!
Totally deconstructed, diverse, open and transformational.
Oh yeah, 100% of proceeds from this book go to some charity or foundation but I can't recall which!

[guanaeps]

This book was my text book for public speaking. Great book, has a lot of good things to say, articulates itself very well. It explains how to become a better speaker for all occasions.