BY ALISON WOOD BROOKS

TALK: The science of conversation and the art of being ourselves

TALK examines the relentless challenges and opportunities presented by conversation. Who do we talk to? What are we trying to do? How can we coordinate from one moment to the next? And how can we bring our best selves to every conversation?

Understanding the science of conversation helps us master the art of being ourselves.

What People Are Saying

"Reading TALK is like having a conversation with the world's best conversationalist."
Angela Duckworth
#1 New York Times best-selling author of Grit
"TALK is that rarest of treats: smart, insightful, immediately useful, and way more fun to read than should be allowed."
Sheila Heen and Doug Stone
Bestselling co-authors of Difficult Conversations
"If you’ve ever opened your mouth to say something, this is the book for you."
Bianca Bosker
New York Times bestselling author of Get the Picture
"For many, one of the lost arts in modern life is conversation. Alison Wood Brooks’ wonderful new book has the solution. Read this book, and your life will improve."
Arthur C. Brooks
Harvard Professor and #1 New York Times bestselling author of Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier
"Witty, science-driven, and filled with compelling insights and stories. TALK is a modern classic."
Ethan Kross
Author of Chatter
"A rigorously researched, evidence-based book by a leader in the field. On top of this, it's a joy to read—a killer combination."
Emily Oster
New York Times bestselling author of Expecting Better
"Alison Wood Brooks has crafted a thing of beauty…There are too many ah-ha moments to count, so just do yourself a favor and start reading."
Anthony Veneziale
Grammy-Nominated & Tony Award-Winning Creator of Freestyle Love Supreme
"TALK is, by far, the most useful book I’ve read in a long time…The writing is witty and wise, and each chapter is crammed with fascinating stories and astonishing research discoveries. Get this book!"
Teresa Amabile
Harvard Business School, co-author of Retiring: Creating a Life that Works for You.
"A cogent, sparkling, and spectacularly useful guide to getting better at the most important skill you possess…a must-read."
Daniel Coyle
bestselling author of The Talent Code and The Culture Code
Deeply thought-provoking, important, whimsical, funny, and highly practical all at once.
Student
Harvard Business School
Brooks isn't just on the leading edge of this field of study, she is the leading edge. I’m so grateful to learn the latest and greatest.
Student
Harvard Business School
I feel so much more confident talking to others now. Thank you!
Student
Harvard Business School
Brooks is a treasure trove of knowledge—truly an amazing teacher and leader whose own communication serves as an example of how to do it well.
Student
Harvard Business School
I love the strong basis in academic research, rather than folk knowledge that seems to prevail in this industry. Her work is incredibly rigorous and insightful.
Student
Harvard Business School
I had never thought about conversational micro-decisions in an analytical way. Just having those concepts put into your mind is so helpful for holding better conversations.
Student
Harvard Business School
Learning the TALK maxims has changed my life.
Student
Harvard Business School