A guide to staging a poetry slam, discussing the history and tradition of spoken word poetry, the rules and regulations of slam competition, the skills of being a slammaster, slam formats and organization, venues, light and sound, publicity, and other topics.

Digging the roots of spoken word poetry -- Soaking in the spirit of slam -- Slam competition rules, regulations, and other formalities -- Should I become a slammaster? -- Sharpening your vision -- Plotting your show: all aboard Slampapi's entertainment express -- Scoping out the right venue -- All the slam's a stage -- Let's get technical -- Choosing & organizing your crew -- Getting the word out: publicizing your show -- Expanding your market: special shows -- Taking ownership of your show.