An American Rhetoric

by William Whyte Watt

W.W. Watt's An American Rhetoric has been for years, edition after edition, far and away the best book in the field. In my early teaching years I used it...in freshman composition courses - always after carefully examining supposedly competitive books...Used slowly and carefully, as in a composition course, An American Rhetoric gives a solid foundation - clear explanations and exercises ample enough (and amusing enough) to push all students to their learning thresholds...No other book on writing is as easy to read or accurate...An American Rhetoric cannot make great writiers, but, carefully studied, it can eliminate common errors and free writers to reveal themselves for what they are. -John Gardner

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction

416 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1970

Reviews

[Author Leticia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though it was written many years ago, much of the suggestions that were made were very helpful and insightful. It surely cleared up some doubts that I had, and helped me recognize what my weaknesses as a writer were; it emphasized some important grammar and language mechanics rules. I love the style in which it was written, the chapters were written very succinctly and the examples that he gave were very relevant and helpful. The exercises at the end of the chapter reinforced the lessons and were very practical. I bought this book for about $80.00 and I found it to be worth every penny.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book, of course, it is a bit dated, but still useful!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though it was written for students and is primarily about creating material for an educational environment, it packs a wallop when it comes to how to write clearly and effectively. I love this book.