Think about Editing: An ESL Guide for the Brief Handbook : Book Review

"Think about Editing" written by Allen Ascher is a comprehensive and invaluable guide that explores the art of editing in written content. This book is a must-read for aspiring editors, writers, and anyone interested in improving their writing skills.

One of the standout features of this book is Ascher's ability to simplify complex editing concepts and present them in a clear and accessible manner. His writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making it simple for readers to grasp the principles he discusses. By using practical examples and his expert knowledge, Ascher effectively demonstrates the impact of effective editing on the quality of writing.

The book emphasizes that editing is not just about correcting errors but also about enhancing the structure and flow of a piece of writing. Ascher provides valuable tips on revising and rearranging sentences and paragraphs to create a more cohesive and compelling narrative. He highlights the importance of maintaining the author's unique voice and vision while improving the clarity and impact of their writing.

Additionally, Ascher explores the collaborative nature of the editor-author relationship. He delves into the crucial role of editors in preserving the author's style and ensuring their vision comes through in the final product. His insights offer valuable guidance for aspiring editors, emphasizing the importance of balancing between maintaining the author's style and enhancing the overall quality of the writing.

Overall, "Think about Editing" offers a comprehensive guide to all aspects of editing, including grammar, punctuation, style, and organization. Allen Ascher's expertise and engaging writing style make this book an invaluable resource for writers, editors, and anyone looking to enhance their editing skills. By emphasizing the importance of editing, this book provides readers with practical techniques and valuable insights to create impactful written content.

What are readers saying?

The book "Think about Editing" by Allen Ascher has garnered a range of responses from its readers. While some readers have praised the book for its insightful tips and guidance on the editing process, others have found it to be excessively technical and lacking in practical examples.

Many readers have expressed appreciation for the author's expertise and wealth of knowledge on the subject. They have found the book to be a valuable resource for both professional editors and aspiring writers. The tips and techniques provided in the book have been deemed practical and helpful in honing one's editing skills. Additionally, the author's clear and concise writing style has been commended, making the book an easy and enjoyable read.

However, there have also been readers who feel that "Think about Editing" leans too heavily towards professional editors and may be daunting for those less experienced. They have found it challenging to apply the concepts and techniques discussed in their own writing or editing endeavors. Some critics have also pointed out the absence of practical examples or exercises to reinforce the concepts presented in the book.

Despite the divergent opinions, most readers agree that "Think about Editing" offers a comprehensive guide to the editing process. The author's explanations of various editing techniques, such as line editing, copyediting, and proofreading, have been praised. Some readers have found the book to be a useful reference tool to consult as needed.

Overall, opinions on "Think about Editing" are mixed. While some readers have found it to be a valuable resource for improving editing skills, others believe it is too technical and lacks practicality. Nevertheless, for those seeking a comprehensive guide to editing, this book may still be worth considering.

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