Grammatically Correct: The Writer's Essential Guide to Punctuation, Spelling, Style, Usage and Grammar : Book Review

"Grammatically Correct" by Anne Stilman is an indispensable guide that delves into the complexities of grammar and style. This comprehensive book provides clear explanations and numerous examples to help readers understand and apply grammar rules effectively. Stilman's skill lies in presenting intricate concepts in a way that is accessible and easy to comprehend.

One of the book's strengths is Stilman's ability to break down complicated grammar rules into simple, digestible explanations. By doing so, she helps readers grasp these concepts with ease and apply them to their own writing. The abundance of examples throughout the book further reinforces the understanding of grammar, allowing readers to see how these rules are put into practice.

Stilman's attention to detail is notable, as she addresses various areas of grammar that writers commonly struggle with. From subject-verb agreement to proper pronoun usage, she covers it all. In addition, "Grammatically Correct" dispels common grammar myths, providing clear explanations and ensuring that readers have a solid understanding of the correct usage.

What sets this book apart is its focus on clarity and style. Stilman believes that grammar is not just about following rules; it also plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall quality of writing. With practical tips on sentence structure and word choice, she helps writers communicate their ideas with precision and coherence.

In conclusion, "Grammatically Correct" is a valuable resource for both novice and seasoned writers. Whether you are looking to improve your grammar skills or refine your writing craft, Stilman's comprehensive coverage, approachable style, and emphasis on clarity and style make this book an indispensable tool. With this guidebook in hand, writers can enhance their writing skills and effectively communicate their ideas.

What are readers saying?

Anne Stilman's book "Grammatically Correct" has garnered mixed reviews. Published in 1997, this comprehensive guide aimed to assist writers, editors, and students in honing their grammar and writing style.

Some reviewers found "Grammatically Correct" to be an excellent resource, praising its clear explanations and thorough coverage of grammar rules. The book's extensive examples and practical tips were highly valued, as they effectively enhanced their writing skills. Many readers deemed it a valuable reference tool and appreciated the author's meticulous attention to detail.

However, other reviewers were less impressed by Stilman's book. Some found the explanations to be unnecessarily wordy and challenging to comprehend, making it tough for beginners or non-native English speakers to grasp the concepts. Furthermore, a few readers considered the book outdated, with references to archaic grammar rules and style preferences.

Several reviewers also noted that while the book delves extensively into grammar, it falls short in addressing other aspects of writing, such as punctuation and formatting. They expressed disappointment that these areas were not given equal emphasis.

A common criticism among readers was the lack of an engaging writing style in "Grammatically Correct." Some found the book dry and tedious, making it difficult to stay engaged during the reading process. They felt that the author's tone was overly technical and devoid of personality, resulting in a less enjoyable reading experience.

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