Strategies for Successful Writing: A Rhetoric, Research Guide, Reader and Handbook

by James A. Reinking

Designed for use in introductory composition courses. The level will be most appropriate for the University/University College segment, although the book will also fit the College segment. Reinking's multipurpose “four-in-one” text comprises Rhetoric, Research Guide, Reader, and Handbook sections. It should appeal to those who need a book that not only covers all the grammar bases and the writing process, but also includes oral work and covers the writing of theses and academic research papers. Chapters in the Rhetoric progress developmentally from pre-writing considerations through rhetorical strategies to elements that make up the essay. Useful examples (including annotated student essays), exercises, and suggestions invite students to test their understanding of concepts through practical application. The Research Guide provides exercises on such skills as note taking and conducting primary research. The Reader, which includes a helpful section on reading for different purposes, follows the sequencing of the Rhetoric. Finally, the handbook provides clear explanations of grammatical concepts, and reinforces understanding through examples and exercises.

Genres: Reference, Writing, Nonfiction

752 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1986

Reviews

[BlackbirdFrenzy Meagher · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's fine as a technical overview but nothing special. Reading about writing isn't writing.

[Katy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Here's the thing: this text is bare bones and mostly "just the facts Ma'am"; just the thing for community college or non-English major students. I've found the "Reader" section, which contains real-life essays on topics from immigration to machsimo to defining family, to be a useful supplement for modeling examples of writing topics, strategies, and architecture. Plus, the TOC sports a cross-reference that matches up the categories of the essays in the "Reader" section to the "Rhetoric" section, so I don't have to flog my brain, and, gasp -- do it myself.

[Meltha · Rating 4 out of 5]

While not perfect, this really does work as a good composition textbook. It's clear, provides a workable number of readings from which to select, and succeeds in getting to the point. I admit, though, that I've never used the grammar section.

[Samantha Garlock]

Hey it is a textbook give me a break! ;)

[Lucille · Rating 5 out of 5]

I still refer to this book.

[Kareena]

Read the chapters that were required for my English course. [March 27, 2015]