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

by Joseph Piercy

English grammar is often said to be over-complicated 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 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 layman 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.

Genres: Nonfiction, Writing, Reference, Education, Language

192 pages, Paperback

First published September 4, 2014

Reviews

[Max Rudd]

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]

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]

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

[Nattapan]

A good read!

[Maura Browne]

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

[Paul]

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]

Both useful and funny...

[Fara7]

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

[Cat]

Interesting, although a bit brief at times.