Without Saying a Word: Master the Science of Body Language and Maximize Your Success

This book is amazing! It's a great balance between practical, actionable knowledge about body language and micro expressions, and the science and academic background to help round out that knowledge.A little about why I picked up this book: I got interested in learning more about micro expressions after watching the TV series Lie to Me. I looked at the courses from Paul Ekman – the psychologist that inspired the series – but didn't want to pay that much money right now. Looking at other companies that offered similar training, I found the Wezowskis and this book. It seemed like a reasonable amount of money to spend to dip my toes into this subject while also including info on body language which is a great bonus.I think this book is exactly what I needed. Starting with learning about body language is awesome because it's easier to see for a beginner like me. After studying that and trying to practice intentionally interpreting it in everyday situations, I think I'll be ready to start trying to notice the much more subtle micro expressions. And that's exactly how the book is structured – body language, then micro expressions! There are also some really nice examples at the end of the book to try reading real-life situations.I'm also impressed with the scholarship of the book. It has an extensive bibliography and many citations throughout the text if you're interested in seeing the studies about body language and micro expressions. However, the text never feels dry, lengthy, or superfluous – every expression is discussed in enough detail without going into unnecessary detail or using overly academic language.Finally, just to show you I'm not biased, I'll mention the only flaw I've found in the book: the hand-drawn illustrations. Not all of them, mind you; most of them are really good and reduce distractions that might have existed if photographs had been used. However, there are a few that aren't as crisp and professional-looking as the others. That being said, they do all still draw your attention to the right things: the face, or hands, or body as applicable so after you get used to them, they won't detract from your understanding and learning.This book is definitely worth the price. If you're interested in starting to intentionally learn about body language and micro expressions, I don't think you can go wrong with this book!

Kasia and Patryk Wezowski's Without Saying A Word is a strong and authoritative update on the the body language model.Besides an update with new information on the high probability of meaning on what has become somewhat common knowledge on broad body language signals, i.e., crossed arms means defiance or defensive attitude, what the newer and higher level of the body language model defines as facial "Microexpressions" means to a high level of accuracy. All told and shown with pictures (B&W) and pencil drawings.You do know what these postures very likely means?1. When someone crosses their legs to a 90 degree angle?2. What can different sizes of one's pupils mean?3. Is it true that liars blink a lot more than average when lying?4. Is it possible to 'cluster' body signals to effect a more accurate read on someone? If so, how to for best results?All will be made clear after reading, well studying this book.A useful summary grid is presented after each chapter.A deep and not boring dive onto the razor's edge on how to learn what people are really saying through their attempts to hide their true feelings, intentions, etc., rather than just relying on what they say. Ideal for negotiators, crisis managers, sales reps, professional poker players and determining if he or she is really into you.My only criticism is the pictures in the Microexpressions section would have had more impact if they were in color. However I understand the added expense the authors would have endured publishing with color pictures.P.S. For you negative and suspicious folks, I brought this softcover edition book with no agreement to give a good review to the authors. This book's content earned my positive review.

This book gave me a great overview of various body language signals and facial expressions. It even provides fun and educating practice examples in the back as to how to read body language. However, what fell short was some goal-oriented information that I was looking for. In general it is vaguely stated what to do when the opposing person sends negative body language signals, but I wish there were some realistic examples. For example: "Man X is trying to flirt and get Woman Y to go on a date. Woman Y shows disgust by doing Z after Man X asked her about her family. How can he change the subject/his body language to move the conversation back into the positive?" Just examples like that would have been a nice addition for further practical use. But the book is still worth the buy for whoever is wondering. Lots of interesting information that is backed by research.