Are There Books Like 'Good Arguments' For Persuasive Writing?

If you enjoyed 'Good Arguments' and want to dive deeper into persuasive writing, there's a whole world of books that can sharpen your skills. One classic I swear by is 'Thank You for Arguing' by Jay Heinrichs—it breaks down rhetorical techniques in a way that’s both entertaining and practical. Heinrichs uses examples from pop culture, history, and even parenting to show how persuasion works in real life. It’s like a masterclass in arguing without making enemies, which is something I’ve found super useful in online debates or even just convincing friends to try a new anime.

Another gem is 'Made to Stick' by Chip and Dan Heath. While it’s more about making ideas memorable, the principles overlap heavily with persuasion. They explore why some stories (or arguments) stick in your brain while others fade away. I’ve applied their 'SUCCES' framework to everything from writing fanfiction pitches to defending my hot takes on 'Attack on Titan.' If you want to go academic, 'The Art of Rhetoric' by Aristotle is the OG, though it’s denser. Pair it with a modern guide like 'Persuasion' by James Borg, and you’ll feel like a debate club champion in no time.

Oh, absolutely! 'Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion' by Robert Cialdini is a must-read if you're into the psychological side of convincing people. It’s packed with studies and real-world examples that explain why we say 'yes'—and how to use those principles ethically. I stumbled on it while trying to understand why certain villain monologues in 'Death Note' hit harder than others, and now I can’t unsee Cialdini’s six principles everywhere. For a lighter take, 'You Talkin’ to Me?' by Sam Leith is a fun romp through rhetoric, from Shakespeare to 'Star Wars.' It’s like having a nerdy friend geek out over words with you.