3 Review(s)

There is much interest in English usage these days. This is a book for writers, editors, teachers, students and the business community. As it is quite unlike other books in this genre it will also have a special appeal to all lovers of words. Part of the book deals with a number of serious issues of relevance to persons wishing to improve the quality of their writing. The rest of the book is in a lighter vein. Several valuable summaries deal with many common errors of grammar, spelling, punctuation and word usage. In the course of a few pages these cover about 90 percent of today\'s problem areas. Other topics discussed range from plain English to gobbledegook, from online translations to Basic English, and gender neutral language. Also presented are a number of curiosities of the English language and assorted linguistic lists – some useful, others just tongue-in-cheek. The question of just how many words there are in the English language and in atypical person\'s vocabulary is analysed. The book also contains three short stories by the present author and some fascinating pieces by three other writers. While light-hearted, each of these carries an important message. In an entertaining tailpiece the book features a series of jokes about the English language – these will be particularly useful to public speakers. This book about words contains much material not found elsewhere. It will assist persons engaged in writing activities at all levels to become more articulate. It will expose readers to the richness and diversity of the living English language. About the Author The author, N E Renton, is a consulting actuary and a practicing writer, well known for his highly professional guides on meetings procedure and voluntary associations and for his many books and articles on investment, business, retirement and taxation issues.