Do Not Interrupt: A Playful Take on the Art of Conversation

by Stephen Kuusisto

In this erudite and playful primer on the art of conversation Stephen Kuusisto vigorously tackles the slippery subject of how to converse meaningfully with others. Kuusisto employs a wide range of personal anecdotes, classical texts, and an engaging style to illustrate his points. In seven short, provocative and imaginatively wrought chapters, he spins a compelling argument for the joys of “being connected,” and skillfully shows how to achieve this bond in everyday exchanges.

120 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 2010

Reviews

[Danielle · Rating 1 out of 5]

This author must've been high out of his gourd when he wrote this because his anecdotes just aren't making sense to me. I understand the "playfulness" the author may have been trying to convey, but I think the conversations throughout the book are random and odd. Did not finish the book, because I could not get past 10 pages. If you want a great book on the art of conversation, with some techniques you can get from the reading, try Conversationally Speaking by Alan Gardner.

[Ren Morton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best primers on wit that I’ve ever read. Provides a beautiful framework to think about your own conversation and introduces some games to teach you how to play with words and logic. Also had a wonderful story about a conversation with his dad when he was 8-years-old that is representative of how I hope I parent.

[edel · Rating 2 out of 5]

Summary: *Do Not Interrupt* presents a playful and compelling argument for the joys of making meaningful connections and skillfully shows how to achieve them through everyday conversations.

First sentence: Two men in overcoats sit in a garden in upstate New York in early spring.

Last sentence: Oh, and turn off your mobile phones.