This guide to the world of stand—up comedy, written in easy—to—use Q&A format, provides current and potential comedians with the no—nonsense advice they need for every stage of their careers. Schwensen's lively book features interviews with many of the top names in stand—up—Ray Romano, George Carlin, Christopher Titus, Weird Al Yankovic, Margaret Cho—all sharing lessons learned along the way. Additional interviews with club owners, talent executives, publicists, and others provide behind—the—scenes expertise.