The 25 Rules of Grammar: The Essential Guide to Good English

by Joseph Piercy

The 25 grammar rules that will make your written and spoken English second to none  English grammar is often said to be overcomplicated and difficult to get to grips with, but the truth is that, while there are certain rules that should be obeyed, the language evolves and develops over time—and quite rightly so. In this wonderfully straightforward yet information-packed book, Joseph Piercy outlines the 25 rules that should be adhered to in written and spoken English, defining the rules themselves and then decoding them for the reader so that he or she understands each rule and how it has been used and developed over time. In doing so, the author highlights the most common misuses—or plain errors—in the language, such as apostrophes, "who" and "whom," and avoiding split infinitives and double negatives, while also setting the reader on to the right path to speaking and writing in good, plain English. The book also includes tests and questionnaires that allow the reader to see the rules in action and to assess their own understanding of grammar.

Genres: Nonfiction, Writing, Reference, Education, Language

192 pages, Hardcover

First published September 4, 2014

Reviews

[Max Rudd · Rating 5 out of 5]

It hasn't really taken that long! have been reading other things and dipping in when I can.

This book is wonderful and a must have for, well, everyone. Well set out and accessible, 'Grammar in Bite-Sized Chunks' is fast becoming a constant companion, especially when editing.

I can't recommend it enough, get one and see.

[Aly Shah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This short book shows how subtle mistakes can change the meaning of whole sentence. A good book for learning English grammar, written in very simple language.

I find this book is similar to the book of Marion Field, title Improve your written English. I feel that Joseph copy all of her ideas and put those in his book with little alterations. Anyway you can consider it if you want to improve your English.

[Victor Ellison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid overall, but a bit too brief with certain topics.

[Nattapan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read!

[Maura Browne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very simple guide. As a native speaker, I was familiar with the rules mentioned but found some of explanations quite useful.

[Paul · Rating 2 out of 5]

After a turgid time enduring my English GCSEs, I've become something of a grammar pedant. I do like to see well constructed titles, paragraphs and stories, and pride myself on generally knowing how to structure my sentences. Such matters feel rather intuitive to me and I tend to write instinctively. This book sheds a lot of light on the technicalities of grammar and, to be honest, it all feels like rather a lot of waffle. I'm sure many will take a lot away from this but sadly not me.

[Rob Messenger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Both useful and funny...

[grace flowers · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5
This book was pretty good, and taught me a lot about things I should know but don't. I found some points where no super necessary or important. I really enjoyed reading this!

[Fara7 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rapid acquisition of what's really useful in the English grammar!
A must-have for all!

[Cat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting, although a bit brief at times.