Book Review: Storyworthy
What is it about?
Storyworthy by Matthew Dicks is a book that teaches the art of storytelling. It's filled with practical tips and personal anecdotes from the author's own experiences. Dicks shares how to find interesting stories in everyday life, how to structure them effectively, and how to engage your audience. Whether you're a professional speaker, a businessperson, or just want to be a better communicator, Storyworthy offers valuable insights to help you become a more captivating storyteller.
Why it appealed to me?
I am a data professional. My job is to uncover hidden insights from raw data. When I discovered "Storyworthy," I saw it as a tool to enhance my storytelling skills, essential for making data come alive. Additionally, I recognized its broader value—everyone wants to share interesting stories with friends and colleagues. So, I decided to dive in, eager to improve my storytelling abilities both in my professional and personal life.
The first chapter of "Storyworthy" emphasizes that you don't need extravagant tales like a wild vacation or a near-death experience to tell an engaging story. In fact, it humorously suggests that when someone asks about your vacation, they're often just being polite. This resonated with me because it's true—most people aren't as interested in our vacation or drinking stories as we might think. It made me reflect on all those times I've excitedly rambled on about how beautiful a place was after returning from a trip, unintentionally boring my friends. It's a humorous reminder to be mindful of how we share our stories and to focus on what truly captivates our audience.
Moving forward, I was particularly drawn to the concept of "homework for life" introduced by Dicks. He highlights the significance of setting aside just five minutes at the end of each day to reflect on moments that could potentially become compelling stories. These moments could range from feeling exceptionally joyful, contented, emotional, or sad. For instance, it could be as simple as taking a stroll with your partner, having a heartfelt conversation about life. Or perhaps it's a moment when your sister says something that makes you feel deeply understood. It could even be a cherished memory of a loved one that brings a smile to your face. This practice encourages us to recognize the storytelling potential in our everyday experiences and makes us feel more grateful about our lives.
The book also made me feel silly and reflect on my habit of always starting my stories with phrases like:
"You won't believe what happened today!"
"Listen to this, it's hilarious!"
According to Dicks, this approach sets unrealistic expectations and summarizes the entire story upfront, robbing the audience of the element of surprise. Instead, he advises allowing the audience to form their own opinions and letting the story unfold naturally, catching them off-guard with unexpected twists. As Matthew aptly puts it, "'You are not going to believe' is probably an impossible mark to hit," and I couldn't agree more.
Matthew Dicks breaks down the structure of a captivating story into simple and understandable parts. He talks about how every good story has certain elements that keep the audience engaged from start to finish. This framework is so practical and simple that anyone can use it to craft compelling stories that captivate and entertain.
Should you read it?
I think it's worth reading because effective storytelling is a powerful tool in both personal and professional life. Whether you're giving a presentation at work, pitching an idea, giving an interview or simply engaging in conversations with friends, compelling storytelling can set you apart and leave a memorable impact. And if you are a public speaker by profession, then this book is a must-read for you.
The book makes you realise how little changes in the structure of your story can make it so much better. It offers practicle tips and actionable advice that you can apply in various situations. Most of all I suggest reading it because stories evoke emotions and allow you to connect with people at a deeper level.
Beyond its practical value, Storyworthy is an enjoyable read filled with entertaining anecdotes and insightful observations. So, whether you're looking to improve your communication skills, enhance your personal development, or simply enjoy a captivating read, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.