Thursday, August 12, 2010

Thursday Review - Grammar Snobs are Great Big Meanies

I have to confess, I love grammar. To me, it’s fascinating, not frustrating. I know many people don’t share my passion and that’s okay. But as writers, especially if you aren’t a big fan, you should have a good grammar reference in your book collection. And IMHO (in my humble opinion)—this is one of the best out there.

Grammar Snobs are Great Big Meanies
A Guide to Language for Fun & Spite
by June Casagrande

I’m in love with this title and I think I would have bought the book just to have it on my shelf. And if you think the title’s great, wait until you read the chapter titles. Here are a few of my favorites:

  • The Sexy Mistake—“To Lay” versus “To Lie”
  • Snobbery Up With Which You Should Not Put—Prepositions
  • Is That a Dangler in Your Memo or Are You Just Glad to See Me?
  • R U Uptite?—Shortcuts in the Digital Age and the Meanies Who Hate Them
  • The Silence of the Linguists—Double Possessives and Possessives with Gerunds
And my favorite – the title of her introduction
  • Grammar Snobs Make Good Prison Brides
All kidding aside, this book has it all. And, beyond that, it’s easy to find the answers you need. Ms Casagrande makes grammar understandable and shows us that language is fluid. She helps us understand that no one really knows the answer to some of these questions.

I’d love to know where you go when you need help with grammar. So chime in and let’s learn from each other.

Don't forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie

2 comments:

  1. Edie, I think I may have to add this book to my shelf. I love those chapter titles too!
    Where do I go for grammar help? Sometimes I just google my questions. I also have "The Idiot's Guide to Grammar"--a nice basic book, wouldn't you say?

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  2. Beth, I love that book, too. It's really well organized. Thanks for reminding us. Do you have a favorite online site?

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