Book Review: “The Elements of Style - Classic Edition 2017” by William Strunk Jr., edited by Richard De A’Morelli

How did I get this book?

I bought it from Barnes & Noble thanks to a generous gift card from my friends at Azalea Baptist Church.

The reason I bought it and read it was because Benjamin Netanyahu mentioned it in his memoirs as being a classic. I’d never read a grammar book and was intrigued and wanted to know if it would make me a better writer.

What is it about?

It’s a very small book about how to write properly in English. There’s strong suggestions for how to write, specifically on what not to write. And, then, all the rules for grammar.

What did I think?

I found it helpful. Much of the content I have been familiar with my whole life. Maybe I picked things up from reading? But, I think most of it came from my primary school years. I was in the Accelerated Christian Education (A.C.E.) system till 5th grade. The year was broken up into 12 booklets called “PACES.” It was a mastery based system of learning. Only after you had mastered the material by passing a test, were you allowed to go on to the next unit of learning.

There are a couple of grammar rules that I’m ignorant of. I was grateful to learn more about colons and semicolons. I need to practice those more.

But, the big takeaway for me was the encouragement to be succinct. I really struggle with that!

Conclusion

This is a helpful book. Mr. Netanyahu was right. It will stay on my shelf until I have to use a colon or semicolon.

andy