Improvisation for the Spirit: Live a More Creative, Spontaneous, and Courageous Life Using the Tools of Improv Comedy

A long-time, nationally touring comedian and contributor to O, The Oprah Magazine, first-time author Goodman manages to slip an improv-inspired free-for-all format and a good dash of humor into the self-help genre, making a winning and creative volume that will help the shy, the fearful, and the controlling to loosen up and enjoy life. Each of twelve chapters covers a concept such as ""Be Open & Flexible"" or ""Allowing Imperfection""; Goodman explains the concept, provides anecdotes from her work (some are helpful and sincere, others seem to have been pulled off her publicity brochure) and encourages self-exploration with writing, drawing and doing exercises. Goodman's advice is helpful for small issues, such as controlling self-doubt: ""Our Inner Critic is trainable. Think Young Frankenstein singing 'Puttin' On the Ritz.'"" Broader advice, however, may seem more appropriately applied to stage relationships than to real ones. Still, Goodman's quirky, thoughtful approach and breezy tone should give wound-up readers some new ways to relax, relate and think about their lives.