Dick Fetzer, left, gives a copy of his book to Dr. Keith T. Miller, LHU president.

LOCK HAVEN, Pa. - Richard “Dick” E. Fetzer, elementary education instructor at Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania and Lock Haven resident, has released his new book, “Please Listen To Me!: A Christian’s Guide to Reflective Listening.” The book, published by the Pleasant Word division of Winepress Publishing Group, offers tips for becoming a better listener.

“Few people listen as well as they think they do,” Fetzer said. “But relationships can be enhanced, improved – even salvaged – through reflective listening.”

Reflective listening, Fetzer explained, is when the listener “reflects back” to the speaker what he thought he heard and awaits confirmation or correction. In his book, Fetzer addresses what he believes are the 10 most common stumbling blocks to effective communication. The book also outlines critical components of reflective thinking, strategies for becoming a successful reflective listener and practical applications for small groups and one-on-one use.

Fetzer believes that in a world of sophisticated communication systems, effective communication involves the ability to listen reflectively.

“When we listen reflectively, it’s a win-win for both the speaker and listener,” Fetzer said.

Fetzer taught elementary school in Pennsylvania for 35 years and coached wrestling prior to joining the faculty at Lock Haven University. He co-founded People to People Ministries with his wife, Joanne Freed, and the couple offers seminars on learning styles and communication skills.

A signing of Fetzer’s book is planned for Saturday, June 21, from 10 a.m to noon at D. Dashem Books, 109 E. Main St., Lock Haven.