The Writer's Harbrace Handbook responds to the demand for a "writing first" handbook while maintaining the hallmarks of Hodges' Harbrace Handbook--solid coverage of grammar and mechanics.
In the preface the authors mention they update this handbook every year to reflect trends. After seeing the "netiquette" tips and website design/online writing sections I can verily say this is a product of it's times.
The best parts I harvested: -How to create and sharpen research questions -Evaluating a source for authority and noteworthiness -interviewing experts and designing questionnaires
Just okay: Grammar and parts of speech materials, pretty standard.
The letdowns: It's geared more toward academic, research paper, and formatting. The business writing section is woefully dated and uninspired. MLA/APA etc. rules. Eh, I'm sure these have been updated. Not a great use of space. The section on note taking is geared towards research and not helpful for note taking in live sessions, presentations, or workshops.