Verbal Advantage: Volume 2 : Book Review

"Verbal Advantage" by Charles Harrington Elster is an excellent resource for individuals looking to enhance their vocabulary and communication skills. This comprehensive guide offers practical advice, engaging exercises, and insightful tips to help readers improve their verbal proficiency.

Elster begins by emphasizing the importance of a strong vocabulary in conveying ideas effectively and succeeding in various aspects of life. He provides readers with strategies to systematically enrich their vocabulary, encouraging them to embrace a lifelong commitment to learning new words. The author recommends utilizing mnemonic devices and context clues to aid in memorization, making the process more enjoyable and effective.

What sets "Verbal Advantage" apart from other vocabulary-building books is the inclusion of audio CDs or online audio resources. These resources allow readers to practice proper pronunciation and enhance their spoken language skills. Elster provides guidance on how to use the audio material in conjunction with the book to maximize its benefits.

The book incorporates a range of activities and exercises to reinforce word retention and usage. Elster presents word lists based on various themes, allowing readers ample opportunities to practice incorporating these words into their everyday conversations. His witty and engaging writing style keeps readers interested and motivated throughout the learning process.

Overall, "Verbal Advantage" is highly recommended for anyone seeking to improve their vocabulary and verbal communication skills. Whether you are a student, professional, or simply interested in expanding your language abilities, this book offers valuable tools and techniques for personal and professional growth. With its comprehensive approach, practical advice, and interactive exercises, "Verbal Advantage" is an indispensable resource for enhancing verbal proficiency.

What are readers saying?

Verbal Advantage by Charles Harrington Elster has received a range of reviews from readers. Some readers praise the book for its informative and comprehensive nature, while others express disappointment in its organization and relevance.

Many readers appreciate the wealth of information provided in Verbal Advantage. They find it to be a valuable resource for expanding their vocabulary and improving their communication skills. The exercises and examples included are seen as helpful in reinforcing the concepts discussed. Reviewers note that the book covers a wide range of topics, such as word roots, idioms, and analogies, making it a comprehensive guide for language enthusiasts.

However, several readers express frustration with the organization of Verbal Advantage. They feel that the book lacks a clear structure and progression, making it difficult to follow and retain the information. Some reviewers mention that the topics covered seem random and disjointed, which hampers their ability to effectively learn from the book. Additionally, the lack of an index or glossary is mentioned as a drawback, as it makes it challenging to find specific information.

Another point raised by reviewers is the relevance of the content. Some feel that the book focuses too heavily on outdated vocabulary and archaic language, making it less useful in contemporary conversations. They believe that the author could have included more current and relevant examples to make the book more relatable and practical.

Despite these criticisms, many readers find value in Verbal Advantage and believe that it can be a helpful tool for those looking to enhance their vocabulary and communication skills. However, it is important to note the book's organizational shortcomings and keep in mind that some of the content may not be as applicable to modern language usage.

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