Guide to Genealogical Writing

by Penelope L. Stratton, Henry B. Hoff

From the publisher:

"Whether you are new to genealogy or have been researching for years, this improved edition of our bestselling "writing guide" will help you present your findings in writing.

Using examples from NEHGS's award-winning publications, our experts show you how to write your family history clearly and accurately—from building a genealogical sketch to adding images to indexing. An appendix on genealogical style covers alternate spellings of names, when and how to use lineage lines, how to include adopted children and stepchildren, aspects of double dating, and other issues faced by genealogical writers. This update of Genealogical Writing in the 21st Century is a must-have for anyone interested in sharing their research!"

Genres: Writing, Reference, Nonfiction, Research

208 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2014

About the author

Library of Congress Authorities:
Personal name heading: Stratton, Penny
Variant(s): Stratton, Penelope L.

Reviews

[Kathy KS · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5*

Published by the New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS), this work served as inspiration for me to begin, at least, getting SOMETHING written for my descendants to add to the many family stories I have orally told them over the years (both my own and our ancestors'). I'll be the first to admit that I enjoy the research much more than the actual putting it all together into some sort of written production.

So, I liked the gradual approach shown here. I do NOT always agree with some of the information, especially about citations and bibliographies. I'm a little stricter on some of that. But one of the themes of the book seems to be "here's our recommendation, but, 'you do you'." So, I will. Examples shown in the book were helpful, too, and will especially be of interest to visual learners.

[Richard · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is provides the tools needed for writing in the genealogical and family history research, which emphasizes for researches to write professionally. This book is consistent with the Chicago/Turabian writing style. What is greatly emphasized in genealogy research classes is the importance of a written report or compiled lineage to be profession in writing and in appearance, as well as to be consistent in the style one chooses to write in.

[Keely · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic guide to writing up family history. Including how to start to draft, materials to include, formatting for word, and publishing advice. Very comprehensive and great as a reference to aid genelogical writing.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great advice but the ebook doesn’t conform to their own cautions about layout.

[Darlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book on genealogical writing I've ever read. It was almost like taking a college level writing course!

[Jane Irish Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent guide. Surprisingly easy to read and well laid out. My only quibble is that it may be a little bit outdated in some areas. Otherwise, highly recommended.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good, but much is the same as the Portable Genealogist Fact/Style Sheets that I bought at the same time.