"The Congressional Operations Poster is the best description of how Congress works in a single poster. I recommend it to anyone who needs an up-to-date, concise, and thorough depiction of Congress."
-- James A. Thurber, Director, Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies, American University
 

"The Congressional Operations Poster is the best single source I have seen for a quick, accurate, at-a-glance understanding of the federal budget and legislative processes."
-- William LaForge, Winstead Sechrest & Minick, Washington, DC

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"Deanna Gelak tells it all, in a comprehensive, straightforward, and easy-to-use book on the art and science of lobbying in the US Capitol. Deanna herself is one of the most highly respected lobbyists in this town: effective, ethical, and enthusiastic. 

This work is required for all who make their living 'petition(ing) their government for redress and grievances.' It is a clear road map to success in Washington, DC."
-- Steve Bartlett, President and CEO, The Financial Services Roundtable (former Member of Congress (R-TX 1983-1991) and Former Mayor of Dallas, TX (1991-1995))

"Lobbying and Advocacy by Deanna Gelak is a great resource for anyone who works in Washington or who wants to know how public policy advocacy really works. Deanna has seen the 'sausage being made' while both working in the Government and lobbying, and her book combines the history and the how-to's of lobbying in one place. This is required reading for students and experienced lobbyists."
-- Andy Mekelburg, Vice President, Federal Government Relations, Verizon

Lobbying and Advocacy is loaded with practical tips and resources for effective and ethical lobbying on Capitol Hill and in the executive branch. This book is useful whether you are overseeing a government relations function, launching a lobbying effort, building coalitions, or monitoring public policy.

While many books discuss lobbying and advocacy, this book concisely highlights the most effective ways to do so. Lobbying and Advocacy is the ultimate lobbyist's handbook."
-- Randel K. Johnson, Vice President, US Chamber of Commerce (former Congressional committee minority counsel and former executive branch official)

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"[T]his book will be of value to students and professionals of political communications and public relations. Summing up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduate through professional collections."
-- CHOICE (click for full review)

"Although targeted for new media relations staff or ones starting a new press office, even the most experienced public information officer can learn from this book."
-- Gene Rose, Director of Public Affairs, NCSL, in State Legislatures magazine, December 2004 (click to see full review - pdf )
 

"Want to become a media relations ace? Here's expert advice.  The book is loaded with tips for corporate communicators as well.  Impact recommends it highly."
-- Impact (Public Affairs Council), July/August 2004
 

"Uncertain how to interest the press in your pressing issue?  Having difficulty preparing your media-unfriendly boss for a tough interview? Worried about the next communications crisis and how to handle it? Brad Fitch answers those questions and many more in this crisp, clear and completely useful book."
-- Tucker Carlson, TV analyst, author
 

"A seminar from TheCapitol.Net is one of the best ways to learn from the experts about how Washington really works. Now all that insight and information has been packed into this invaluable volume. I suggest you read it, and become your own expert."
-- Steven V. Roberts, syndicated columnist, TV and radio analyst, college professor
 

"Brad Fitch has performed an admirable public service by giving public relations students and professionals alike an indispensable tool. His book provides a road map on both the practicalities and principles of PR, and he shows that honest PR is not an oxymoron. Now it's up to all of us in the media and spin industries to keep our end of the bargain."
-- Ed Henry, Senior Editor of Roll Call
 

"This volume is an invaluable road map to the mean streets of a city where information is power and power is everything. Brad Fitch has written a rich 'how-to' lesson for pros and for novices who must negotiate the competitive landscape of America's new media."
-- Ann Compton, White House Correspondent, ABC News
 

"Media Relations Handbook is to political campaigns what The Art of War is to military campaigns: an essential strategic reference that winners should never be without."
-- James Carville, TV analyst, author
 

"Great advice for beginners and experienced media hands. If you are a media relations professional--either beginner or seasoned veteran--this is the book for you. Brad Fitch, who spent many years fielding reporters' tough questions on Capitol Hill, has written a timely, practical guide to handling media relations that is filled with solid professional advice. What goes into a press release? How do you develop a strategic message? You've got a digital camera and a fax machine, but what else does your office need to effectively handle the media? Before you start talking to a reporter, do you know the difference between 'on the record,' 'off the record,' and 'background'? When there's an immediate crisis in your organization, what are the eight mistakes that you absolutely must avoid? How do you handle your paranoid boss when he or she has to confront the press? You'll find the answers to these and many other everyday problems in this book. Fitch also gives valuable advice on how to set up an effective website and how to use e-mail for optimum communications. Excellent book for professionals who work in federal or state agencies, trade associations, non-profits, state legislatures or Congress. It's the only handbook you'll ever need."
-- Dennis W. Johnson, college professor and former Capitol Hill senior staffer
 

"Provides valuable advice for those who flack for a living."
-- Roll Call, April 21, 2004, page 3 and page 22 (pdf)
 

"A superb blend of theory and practice, written by someone who uses words like Gallup uses polls."
-- Steve O'Keefe, author "Complete Guide to Internet Publicity" and Adjunct Faculty, Tulane University College
 

"Offers a wealth of practical advice on public relations that will be of benefit to governmental and non-governmental organizations alike."
-- Municipal World
 

"The 'bible' of media relations and a must for anyone charged with the responsibility of successfully dealing with (and utilizing) the media for their agency, group, or cause."
-- Midwest Book Review

"In the Media Relations Handbook, author Brad Fitch effectively presents practical ideas and tips on how to properly conduct media relations. ... The book is a comprehensive and recommended read for anyone interested in learning more about public relations and how people and organizations should conduct their relationships with the media."
-- James J. Casey, Jr., Wisconsin Lawyer, April 2006

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2005 Benjamin Franklin Award Finalist

"When this book was originally written, it bore the title "The Golden Rules of Advocacy," and the previous edition is still available under that name from Amazon.com. I discovered 'Golden Rules' on a trip to England, where I found it on sale at the information desk of the Royal Courts of Justice in London. As a recently retired trial advocate of 32 years experience, I was interested in the English perspective on trial advocacy. I bought the book and read it straight through on the flight home from England and was greatly impressed by Evans' knowledge of the essentials of trial advocacy. When I discovered 'Golden Rules' on Amazon.com, I wrote a glowing review.

Then I found 'Common Sense Rules,' and debated ordering it. I rightly suspected it was 'Golden Rules' under another name. After some time, I gave in to the urge to purchase, and I have not regretted it. 'Common Sense' is 'Golden Rules' revised and expanded, and set forth in a much more user-friendly format.

I lament the change of title, however. The term 'Golden Rules' conveys the high ethical standard set by the book far better than 'Common Sense'. You can have a head full of 'Common Sense' and still be as crooked as a corkscrew. Despite my preference for the former title, I cannot fault the publisher for the change. Either term is equally applicable. Maybe the third edition could be entitled 'The Golden Rules of Common Sense Advocacy'.

Reading this book would profit any advocate of any experience level. Judicious application of the advice contained in the book will make anyone a better advocate."
-- George R. (Bob) Dekle, Legal Skills Professor, University of Florida, Retired Assistant State Attorney, Third Judicial Circuit of Florida (successfully prosecuted Ted Bundy)

"I can't think of one more effective single thing WSBA could do to advance its skills training goals than to give a copy of CSRA to every newly admitted member. ...  CSRA is my desert-island book. And when another lawyer washes ashore, as in a New Yorker cartoon, I'll be ready.  Buy this book."
-- Lindsay Thompson, Washington State Bar Association (WSBA) Litigation Law Section Newsletter, Fall 2004
 

"The rules presented are sound and the book is easy to read. It is conducive to being read in short increments, as might well be the case for a busy trial lawyer or for one using it to brush up. I recommend that trial lawyers have this book on their shelves for use as a refresher, in preparation for a trial, or as the basis for daily reflection on trial advocacy."
-- Jason Hanson, Wisconsin Lawyer, September 2004
 

"Down to earth advice for the advocate. Keith Evans' book provides important, down-to-earth advice and guidance for both the novice and experienced advocate. Having adjudicated many, many cases, I wish every advocate would review these practical rules for effective advocacy. All advocates will benefit from this helpful book."
-- Jay Grenig, Arbitrator
 

"Keith Evans, the author of Common Sense Rules of Advocacy for Lawyers, is an experienced trial lawyer. He has studied the game from the inside and he has seen things others have missed. He has distilled his experience and offers it up in the brisk aphoristic style that brought him his success in the courtroom. The book is a valuable review for the old timers and an excellent primer for those who are starting the climb."
-- Jacob A. Stein, Stein, Mitchell & Mezines, Washington, DC
 

"Common Sense Rules of Advocacy for Lawyers is a superb how-to book for the trial lawyer. The author, Keith Evans, walks the reader through the essentials of effective trial advocacy, teaching every step of the way while at the same time never sounding the slightest bit like a lecturer. The scope of the book -- everything from what to wear in the courtroom to writing a trial brief -- is truly impressive, yet the author maintains a tone that is refreshingly readable.  The author never loses sight of the underlying rules of evidence, procedure, and ethics, but his real genius is translating those rules into -- as the title says -- common sense rules of advocacy. I wish I had had this book when I was a young lawyer. I highly recommend it."
-- Karl Tegland, author, "Courtroom Handbook on Washington Evidence"
 

"Advocacy is an art as well as a skill, and Keith Evans presents the rules of mastering that art in a very down to earth manner. Filled with humor and eminently readable, his book is a great introduction for the new lawyer and a wonderful learning tool for the advocate with experience."
-- Sherman L. Cohn, Professor, Georgetown University Law Center 
(first national President of American Inns of Court)
 

"This is a wonderful 'Bible' for the trial lawyer who wants to win. If only we had had this in law school!"
-- Browne Greene, Greene, Broillet, Panish & Wheeler, Santa Monica, CA
 

"Not just for lawyers! Common Sense Rules of Advocacy for Lawyers contains valuable insights and practical lessons for anyone who advocates for a living, including mediators, facilitators, and others who may not readily admit to practicing the subtle art of advocacy. Lawyers advocating in ADR settings will also greatly benefit from Keith Evans' book, which is why I recommend it in my Alternative Dispute Resolution course at the University of Colorado School of Law."
-- Steve Clymer, J.D., mediator, arbitrator, and facilitator with ACCORD Dispute Resolution Services, Inc.
 

"This is a remarkable compendium of useful advice presented in a straightforward, entertaining manner. If new advocates could have only one 'how to' book this would be it."
-- Roxanne Barton Conlin, Roxanne Conlin & Associates, Des Moines, IA
(first woman President of Association of Trial Lawyers of America)
 

"Keith Evans'  Common Sense Rules of Advocacy for Lawyers is a delightful and valuable read for trial lawyers and teachers of every level of experience. For the novice, it is like having a seasoned veteran of the courtroom wars as a mentor. It is full of sound advice and useful examples. Barrister Evans will help the greenest litigator look and act competently before a jury. For old war horses and trial advocacy teachers, Evans' list of rules is a valuable checklist of "DO's" and "DON'T's" reminders. Even the most experienced trial lawyer can pick up some new techniques here. I will heartily recommend it to my Trial Advocacy students."
-- Frederick C. Moss, Professor, Dedman School of Law, Southern Methodist University
 

"This is a terrific guidebook that should be followed by all young trial lawyers. While it is true that these rules are based upon common sense and that most seasoned trial lawyers will figure them out over time, this book will allow young advocates to benefit from all the painful lessons learned by inexperienced lawyers before them."
-- Philip H. Corboy, Corboy & Demetrio, Chicago, IL
 

"The latest title in TheCapitol.Net "Communication Series", Common Sense Rules Of Advocacy For Lawyers by author and lawyer Keith Evans focuses upon the advocacy role lawyers have in advancing or defending their client's interests. After an informative introduction, specific chapters effectively and accessibly address the dimensions of advocacy; the mandatory rules of advocacy; advocacy as "theater"; the psychology of advocacy; the examination of witnesses; direct examination; cross-examination; re-direct examination; final argument; written advocacy; and advocacy in the age of high technology. Enhanced for the reader with a definitive conclusion, various appendices, and a comprehensive index, Common Sense Rules Of Advocacy For Lawyers is a welcome contribution to professional and law school libraries, and an invaluable candidate for use as a principle curriculum textbook, or at the very least, an important addition to a law student's supplemental reading list."
-- Midwest Book Review

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"The Legislative Drafter's Deskbook: A Practical Guide is a masterful work.  It is comprehensive and exceptionally well written.  It is an essential tool for anyone who drafts legislation or interprets the law."
-- William K. Suter, Clerk of the United States Supreme Court
 

"One of the best features of the book is that the author does not just tell you the rules for drafting legislation, he shows how they work; and, even better, he shows how they can be used to turn an acceptable draft into one that is more organized and precise."
-- David DeVries, The Public Lawyer, Summer 2007 (click for full review - 3-page pdf) (chair of the Government and Public Sector Lawyers Division of the ABA from 2000-2001)

"The Legislative Drafter's Deskbook: A Practical Guide is exactly that. It should be a part of every Federal practitioner's library. Even the experienced legislative attorney will find things in the Deskbook that he or she did not know. It is an essential and indispensable book, both as a reference work and as a thorough introduction to Federal legislative drafting."
-- Frank Burk, Legislative Counsel of the United States Senate 1991-1998

"The Legislative Drafter's Deskbook is an invaluable resource for any legislative drafter working to hone her skills or student seeking to become proficient in legislative drafting. Uniquely among drafting guides, this book demonstrates a sophisticated institutional awareness, devoting substantial attention to statutory methods and techniques that will be used by courts to interpret statutes and to the approach that agencies are likely to take when interpreting or implementing Congress' directives. It is clear that this Deskbook was written by an expert with experience in actual legislative drafting; it carefully analyzes the role of the drafter relative to the policymaker and includes helpful discussions of professional norms and expectations. Although the Deskbook is focused on legislative drafting at the federal level, where Tobias Dorsey works in the House of Representative's Office of Legislative Counsel, the succinct and thorough assessment of good legislative drafting techniques provides a set of 'best practices' for drafters at all levels of government."
-- Elizabeth Garrett, Sydney M. Irmas Professor of Public Interest Law, Legal Ethics, Political Science, and Policy, Planning and Development, University of Southern California
 

"Dorsey's Legislative Drafter's Deskbook is the perfect companion for both drafters of legislation and students of statutory interpretation. It is a well-written and clear guide to the do's, don'ts and whys of writing effective legislation."
-- Rick Hasen, William H. Hannon Distinguished Professor of Law, Loyola Law School
 

"Tobias Dorsey has created a valuable and practical tool for all legislative drafters. He correctly notes that much of the drafter's work involves helping the client think through and clarify the policy choices in the request and he provides clear tips on how to persistently carry out that work. His chapters on writing and organizing bill drafts similarly identify common mistakes and suggest better practices. Dorsey's obvious drafting skills play out on every page of the book, as readers will find solid thinking and clear writing throughout his publication. Although the book has a federal perspective, state legislative drafters will also greatly appreciate this work."
-- Bruce Feustel, Senior Fellow, National Conference of State Legislatures

"Comprehensive yet still accessible, thorough yet refreshingly clear--Dorsey's new book, the Legislative Drafter's Deskbook, is a stellar reference. If you are drafting federal legislation, you need this book. If you work with legislative drafters, you need this book. Even if you are just interested in the drafting process generally, you will want this book."
-- Mary Barnard Ray, Senior Lecturer and Assistant Director of Legal Research and Writing, University of Wisconsin, and author of "Legal Writing: Getting It Right and Getting It Written," "The Basics of Legal Writing," and "Beyond the Basics: A Text for Advanced Legal Writers"

"The Legislative Drafter's Deskbook is essential reading for both professional and occasional legislative drafters. Dorsey's solid experience as a journalist, lawyer, and professional drafter shines through as he delivers scores of vital tips for successful drafting and provides keen insight into how our laws are made and how they are interpreted by the courts. Highly readable and thoroughly enjoyable from cover to cover, Dorsey's deskbook offers practical guidance to the aspiring drafter in not only polishing essential writing skills, but also in asking tough questions, spotting thorny issues, and offering creative solutions that will capture the intended choices of policymakers. If each legislative draft is indeed a puzzle, as Dorsey suggests, he has given us in this book the tools by which we can solve even the most vexing of legislative drafting problems."
-- Louis S. Rulli, Practice Professor of Law, University of Pennsylvania Law School

"Legislative Drafter's Deskbook: A Practical Guide presents legislative scholars, legislation drafters, and quite frankly anyone interested in the construction of statute with a meticulous exploration of the planning and thought processes that must occur in order for clear, understandable laws to be written. Dorsey accomplishes his desired missions of providing practical advice to drafters and interesting insight to scholars (and normal people) on the drafting process."
-- Curtis Ellis, American Political Science Association's Legislative Studies Section Newsletter
 

"The Legislative Drafter's Deskbook is my most prized possession in my office. I am constantly highlighting and quoting from the book, and I guard it with my life so nobody walks off with it! We recently went through government reform and transitioned from a tribal council form of government to a three branch system. The Legislative Drafter's Deskbook has been fundamental in establishing our drafting procedures - thank you for this wonderful resource!"
-- Rebecca L. Hillock, J.D., Director of Legislative Services, Osage Nation Congress

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URL:  www.TheCapitol.Net/Publications/ravereviewsBooks.html   Last updated: July 11, 2008