On Writing Well, 25th Anniversary : The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction (On Writing Well)

See Larger Image	Written By: William K. Zinsser Average Customer Rating:


Binding: Paperback Format: Bargain Price Number Of Items: 1 Number Of Pages: 320 Publication Date: 2001-09-01
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Editorial Reviews: Whether you write an occasional professional letter or a daily newspaper column, William Zinsser's On Writing Well should be required reading. Simplicity is Zinsser's mantra: he preaches a stripped-down writing style, strong and clear. He has no patience for excess (most use of adjectives and adverbs, he writes, just adds clutter) or tired phraseology (for instance, he'd like to outlaw all leads involving those "future archaeologists" most often found "stumbl[ing] upon the remains of our civilization"). He recommends that all writers of nonfiction read their work aloud (don't commit something to paper that you wouldn't actually say) and write under the assumption that "the reader knows nothing" (not to be confused with assuming the reader's an idiot). In addition to the chapters on the expected--usage, audience, interviews, leads--Zinsser also focuses on such trouble spots as science and technical writing, business writing, sports, and humor.
Spotlight customer reviews: Customer Rating: Summary: Very insightful. Comment: This book is a good read and offers some solid advice. It doesn't teach writing, but rather offers tips to keep in mind while writing. I feel that some parts of the book are hypocritical, especially when Zinsser uses some tougher vocabulary, but you cannot expect a teacher, writer, and editor to write a book in "see spot run" style, which is what I'm discovering to be the basis of the negative reviews. I don't feel the book offers enough methods to improve writing, especially when it comes to how to reduce clutter. In order to follow the tips and advices Zinsser offers, you have to think and word hard. For $14.95 or less, this book is definitely worth it. This book is easy to understand (even if you're a high school student), with an overall simple, yet unique language and style. The insight it offers is priceless regardless of what profession you are in. Read it, enjoy it, remember it! =] Customer Rating: Summary: the definitive writing text Comment: Whether you are an amateur or professional writer, this book is a must. If you buy only one book on writing, make it On Writing Well. It is a treasure trove. I learned something on every page, and I have been writing professionally for more than 25 years. Customer Rating: Summary: The Must-Have Writer's Tool Comment: If you're a writer and you don't own this book, you're not doing your craft any justice. In fact, everyone should own this book. Zinsser has put together the ultimate guide to writing in simple-to-understand form. Customer Rating: Summary: A Classic in Writing Guidelines Comment: This small tome instructs and reminds one of the essentials of writing in a way to be understood. Directness and simplicity are the key concepts promoted by Zissner. I highly recommend this book for all authors and editors. Customer Rating: Summary: Excellent Reference Comment: No writer should be without this book on their shelf. It is an excellent reference guide that is sure to help bring your writing to life. More Reviews