Reference

The Thinking Person’s Guide to Writing in the 21st Century
The Thinking Person’s Guide to Writing in the 21st Century

Review:Steven Pinker is an intellectual super star. He has written some marvelous books. So naturally anyone who is interested in picking up tips and insights on writing well would want to read his book. Alas, it is too academic, and actually difficult to read. His writing is fine, but the subjects he focuses on are of minor interest—at least to me, and I think to most readers. And he dwells too long on each topic. I have collected and read a number of style manuals. This one, I believe, is of little u... Read more

Between You & Me: Confessions of a Comma Queen
Between You & Me: Confessions of a Comma Queen

Review:Could a book about grammar be funny, highly informative -- and a hard to put down page turner? The answer is "yes" if it is this one written by Mary Norris. Anyone who has ever written anything more formal than an email or a grocery list will find that all those little things they've puzzled over have been puzzles to Ms. Norris as well which she discusses in a narrative style so engaging you hardly realize you're learning a great deal along the way. I particularly like her account of how she end... Read more

The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation - Eats - Shoots & Leaves
The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation - Eats - Shoots & Leaves

Review:One can hardly grant full marks to a punctuation book that does not extol the serial comma. The author (usually) omits it and gives no reason for her preference; unlike most who avoid the serial comma, she mentions a couple points in its favor. Ironically, she fails even to note that her later example "Don't guess, use a timer or watch" lacks the ambiguity she ascribes to it if written by an author who consistently uses serial commas. If you require solider reasons for insisting on its use, try ... Read more

Blood River: A Journey to Africa's Broken Heart
Blood River: A Journey to Africa's Broken Heart

Review:I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It explains why the Congo has never settled down, and probably never will. I've always wanted to do a trip along the Congo River, but now I'm too scared.

Well written, and very readable. Read more

An Ex-FBI Agent's Guide to Influencing - and Winning People Over
An Ex-FBI Agent's Guide to Influencing - and Winning People Over

Review:This book is wonderfully written in a very conversational tone which makes it easy to read. I think perhaps just because we are human beings that we may have basic concept of some of what is written about in the book, BUT when it is spelled out in detail the light bulb goes on! I wish I had the information in this book on a couple of meetings/interviews I've had. It would have been interesting, at least for me! You will be able to utilize the information in all areas of your life from co-wor... Read more

Build Networking Skills -- and Leave a Positive Impression!
Build Networking Skills -- and Leave a Positive Impression!

Review:If small talk is daunting for you, then this book will equip you to win! I loved the practical scenarios that I feel prepared for. I learned how to start a conversation, ease into one, keep it going and get out! The lists make it super easy to skim, but you won't want to miss the awesome content. It was a super easy read that enriched my small talk toolbox. The bonus is that you will get better at both speaking and listening from reading this. Check it out! Read more

The Bro Code
The Bro Code

Review:I love the show and in particular Neil Patrick Harris as Barney so when the opputunity came to buy a copy of the Bro Code i jumped at the chance. If taken literally it is infantile and male dominant but that is the way the character is in the show. After reading i felt it funny and well written almost like a constitution for men from the Barney perspective. If your looking for something that will make you smile while reading and possibly quoting later this is a safe bet to buy. Read more

On Writing Well Audio Collection
On Writing Well Audio Collection

Review:Probably the best writing teacher I have some across. William Zinsser's wisdom is simple, straight forward and he has been my guiding light for years. I have read his books and wanted to own the tape to listen to on my walkman while I walked the dogs. The tape is in practically new condition and I am so happy to have it to hear his voice. I am only sorry I never met him and was deeply saddened to learn of his death recently. Read more

On Writing Well The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction
On Writing Well The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction

Review:Bought for my wife who is taking a writing class. she thinks the book is a great resource...very clear and concise. She especially likes the way the author illustrates what he's talking about in his style of writing. Read more

An Informal Guide to Writing Nonfiction - On Writing Well
An Informal Guide to Writing Nonfiction - On Writing Well

Review:Probably the best writing teacher I have some across. William Zinsser's wisdom is simple, straight forward and he has been my guiding light for years. I have read his books and wanted to own the tape to listen to on my walkman while I walked the dogs. The tape is in practically new condition and I am so happy to have it to hear his voice. I am only sorry I never met him and was deeply saddened to learn of his death recently. Read more

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