Ed Hooks has created quite the little gem in this small "field guide" for the actor. Compiled with a lot of practical advice offered to his students during past acting workshops, this book is the next best thing to sitting in acting class. The text covers everything from auditioning do's and don'ts and how to find and prepare the right monologue, to discovering the character in yourself for a more authentic presentation. It even includes a wide array of acting tips such as substituting a character vice, to how to make yourself cry. It's like having an actor's workshop in your pocket. I would recommend it for anyone who wants to get more work as an actor. And, isn't that what it's all about?