This is a very thorough and detailed book, which presents the topic from a cognitive point of view. I found it a bit heavy on case studies and slanted toward cognitive approaches, but there is still a lot to learn here.

If you are looking for books to complement this, I highly recommend Crucial Conversations and Difficult Conversations. The Communications Skill Book sort of gives the lay of the land and some essential skills. The other books flesh out some areas where this book could be a bit stronger.

I cant say im a complete extrovert at this moment, but thanks to this book I have opened my eyes to a new way of thinking about communication in a most delightful way. The title describes communication as a skill, something I personally haven't even begun to understand yet until I picked this book up and since then my skills have multiplied enormously. The book contains all the essential information you need and more. Just take a look at the contents. This is one of those books that will never be out-dated, Five stars.

other recommended reads:
The Assertiveness Workbook, by Randy J. Paterson Ph.D.
Talking The Winner's Way, by Leil Lowndes
Talk Your Way to the Top, by Kevin Hogan

This book briefly discusses important aspects of communication; including proper listening and getting your message through without noises or communication blocks that hinder the communication process. Besides, it describes how to communicate with your mate, children and how to improve your assertiveness.

The discussion is concise, but the important aspects are very well discussed. This a very valuable book that should be read by everybody who has any concern about achieving a better communication.