Everybody Needs an Editor: The Essential Guide to Clear and Effective Writing

by Melissa Harris, Mark Jacob (editor), Jenn Bane

Wedding toasts, website copy, social media posts, even holiday cards—you’ll become a sharper everyday writer with this witty and comprehensive guide to clearer, better communication.

You’ll never write an email the same way after reading Everybody Needs an Editor, a game-changing guide to sharp, attention-getting writing. The authors use their decades of real-life journalism and marketing expertise to demonstrate the WTFF Writing, Topping, Formatting, and Fixing.

You’ll learn how to eviscerate your own writing—and enjoy doing so. You’ll learn to create must-click subject lines, cut jargon, and write emails that people will actually read and remember.

If you’ve ever felt nervous to hit a “submit” button, this book is for you.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction, Reference, Language, Communication

253 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 10, 2024

Reviews

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book for anyone looking for practical tips to improve their writing. I need to write frequently for work, and I've already found myself implementing advice from this book. Definitely recommend!

[Jamele (BookswithJams) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great little book to have on hand in any situation - toasts, resignations, formatting, writing emails, anything you can think of is in here. It is witty and easy to read, I will definitely be referring to it many times over for suggestions and definitely formatting. It is also timely as it gives tips on how to use AI effectively, oh and the section on LinkedIn (can confirm it is boring for sure but necessary) was great. I had no idea I would love this book so much nor find it so handy and (dare I say fun?) to read!

Thank you to Simon Element #partner for the gifted book to review.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wait, a fun-to-read reference? This book is both practical and timely. And it is witty, to boot.

Not just for writers -- for everyone who writes (and that's all of us!) Our entire staff is reading and discussing. And it will soon be gifted to relatives and friends. :-)

I can see this being one of my 'go-to' gifts for new college grads -- not because it's basic, but because the advice is so good that I want people to have it early in their careers!

[Gina Wedekind · Rating 5 out of 5]

Invigorating!
I'm blown away by this book.
I'm often hesitant to read "How to" books on this subject. They ironically tend to drone on and create more confusion.

The context matches the title's intention. Concisely drafted, fresh ideas for current markets, intelligent and encouraging.

A necessary companion to sit respectfully between Mr. Dictionary and Ms. Thesaurus.

[kimby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Saying that this is a book is a little generous. It's a decent guide to basic journalistic/copy writing style, but it's more like a collection of punchy thoughts.

This, well, collection, is filled with writing tips that I have mainly heard before and mostly agree with; I feel grateful for yearbook, Hodges, my ENGL 222 professor at Fullerton College, and my own brain for listening to teachers. I’ve been reflecting on how I’ve been taught writing (hint: often not that well) and I feel okay about the tips this provides.

Obligatory “I don’t completely agree with the section about AI” comment, but it was not the worst. At least the authors say you have to revise its "work”. I’m still against the idea that reading summaries so that we can be less familiar with more things is a good idea (see: Cat who Saved Books).

Plus, the title says that we all need editors, and as an editor, how can I disagree?

Its humor is a little Gen X(?) Older millennial? Some of the voice sounds like Medievalist Professor #2, but if she was a less funny, jaded, journalist slash businessperson and not a professor who literally teaches the comedy class. No offense.

[Andrew Chandler · Rating 2 out of 5]

This books sells itself as being an all-around guide for writing, but its target audience seems to be people within journalism, media, publishing, or sales. Why else in this small book would they dedicate sections to "how to communicate with journalists" and "how to write headlines?" Frankly, anybody in these industries would have the writing background to make this book worthless.

Some of the advice for a larger audience, such as template responses for certain writing scenarios or how to incorporate AI into your writing, do not even attempt to help people at becoming better writers.

All that remains in this book are useful tips (vary between long and short sentences, be concise, etc), but there is nothing so substantial to merit needing this book

[Becky of Becky's Bookshelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have found Everybody Needs an Editor very useful for me. The book is well written and easy to read. It shares about personal communication, business communication, how to use AI intelligently, writing emails, correct formatting, fixing mistakes, and avoiding clichés. The index will assist you to locate help with your specific problem.

The general set-up of the book makes this an excellent resource you will want to keep near your desk. I also feel this would be helpful for a high school student, college student or someone who is starting in the work force. I highly recommend Everybody Needs an Editor: The Essential Guide to Clear and Effective

I was given a complimentary copy and not required to write a positive review.

[Peggy Flavin · Rating 5 out of 5]

While visiting family, I came across my Dad’s copy of this book at home. I couldn’t put it down and finished it right away— it was a great read. I haven’t been active on LinkedIn for the last 6 years but after reading the section “Why You Should Use LinkedIn Even Though It’s Boring,” I must’ve been inspired because I signed back in. (LinkedIn is still boring!) This book was a witty reminder that strong communication skills can go a long way in both your professional and personal life. Highly recommend.

[Graeme · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent, practical book for writers in business and the professions who are educated and literate, but not obsessed with words and correctness, as I have always been. I gave a copy to my niece, who has just graduated from law school at the Australian National University and joined a fine law firm. As a new lawyer, fine writing and an understanding of artificial intelligence in practice should set her apart and contribute to a successful career.

[Karen Purze · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wait, a fun-to-read reference? This book is both practical and timely. I've already bought a second copy as a gift and can see this being one of my 'go-to' gifts for new college grads -- not because it's basic, but because the advice is so good that I want people to have it early in their careers! Not just for writers -- for everyone who writes (and that's all of us!)

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read. Informative, but with humorous and memorable tone. Well structured to use as a reference in the future. Seems directed at journalists and marketing professionals, but helpful nuggets to all writers - professional and personal writing addressed. All the young adults I know may be getting this book as their graduation present.

[Janis · Rating 3 out of 5]

An intersection between witty essays and helpful advice. The books gives a lot of good guidelines on clear and concise writing, but lacks information on how to organize thinking and writing for longer pieces.

[Ellen Tate]

This would be a great resource for a student or someone doing business communication for the first time. Easy read, witty, and informative! It contained great reminders of what makes concise and effective writing.

[Qinqin · Rating 4 out of 5]

There wasn’t much new information for me, but I think it’s a great resource for anyone who is young and new to the business and professional world. I’ll be recommending it to my college students as well as part of career prep.

[Victoria Nightingale · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really engaging book that covers everything from writing RSVPs to headlines. Maybe it’s a little broad if you already write for your job? But I’m sure it will prove a useful reference in the future.

[Adonai Tzidkenu · Rating 4 out of 5]

I do not agree with all personal opinions in this book.

Nevertheless, this is a good book of sound editing advice. I appreciate the formatting comparisons.

It is a good idea to periodically brush up on this topic.

[Irina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought it was great. It kept me thinking of how long-form writing and 5,000 word essays were common when I was a kid. Now, as an adult, I’m forced to rethink my writing and condense as much as possible in favor of clarity and understanding. Solid practical tips.

[Barbara A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a stand-out in that it’s humorous, entertaining, and full of real-life examples. It isn’t comprehensive like many books on editing styles, but touches on some key elements that were unique and helpful to me as a writer.

[Jenn Bane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Early rumors say this book is very good.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

You will always keep this book handy to help with all of your writing. A must have

[Jon Glass · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun, informative, helpful, and hilarious. Even encouraged me to use an Oxford comma.

[Connor Shea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful workbook for someone (me) who has room for improvement in their writing!

[Vivian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everybody should own (and use) this book!

[J. J.]

Fun, light, and helpful.

[Logan Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

Essential reading for college graduates, marketers, journalists, or anyone who ever has to send an email.

[Ben · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easily accessible and quick read for overall better communication in the workplace and in life. A book I plan to purchase and add to my personal library.

[Amy Simons · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great reminder about tight writing and the need for even stronger editing.

[Nadine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great resource for introductory writing skills and a better resource to explain writing concepts for teaching/training purposes.

[Scott · Rating 3 out of 5]

Basically an updated version of Strunk and White for modern communication.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just like the title says, clear and effective tips for writing.