Conversation: How Talk Can Change Our Lives

Despite the lamentations of intellectual gadflies who long for the salons of yore, the art of conversation isn't deadDit's merely inert, waiting for enthusiasm to nudge it from slumber, according to Zeldin (An Intimate History of Humanity), former dean of St. Antony's College, Oxford, and member of the BBC Brains Trust. Aiming to spark a true dialogue (to the extent it can be achieved in print), he delves briefly into a history of conversation, citing courtesans who used wit for wooing and Bible passages that encourage inviting strangers in for dinner. From there, Zeldin champions using conversation to boost personal enrichment, political momentum and general stimulation. His accompanying 36 b&w illustrationsDRorschach-like squiggles of paint meant to represent concepts like ""first impressions"" or ""family tradition""Ddo little to evoke their designated subjects, but provide an aesthetically pleasing counterpoint to his witty, erudite and persuasive invitation to social intercourse. But even within the confines of so short a work, Zeldin's charms wear thin as he harps on the same lovely and well-tuned note. Less an exploration of how we can talk with one another and more a long discourse on why we should, this slim volume will find many admirers as the perfect bread-and-butter gift. Agent, Andrew Nurnberg (U.K.). (Oct.) Forecast: As the lead title on Hidden Spring's first list, this elegant hardcover will benefit from the new house's launch efforts, including a six-copy counter display, online promotion, a targeted mailing to Oxford University alumni in the U.S. and a direct-mail campaign to book buyers. With a 20,000 first printing and a $30,000 ad/promo budget, an author tour and a 20-city morning drive radio satellite tour, conversation about this book will be in the air.