A BOOK REVIEW
How to Write Well by Michael D. Stover
Do you know what I like about reviewing a How-to book? You don’t have to worry about inadvertently giving away the ending because the reader creates the real ending.
The success writers enjoy from the knowledge they received by employing the teachings of the author is the real “Happily ever after.”
Michael produced a tool for writers and editors that I for one keep on my desk as a handy reference when I am editing what I wrote. Make no mistake, not everyone can write well. However, using the right tools to supplement your talent can make you more successful.
The real secret is to put your fingers to the keyboard and don’t stop until you have told the story. There is always time to edit later, and Michael’s book will help you do that.
My favorite quote from the book is, “Write fearlessly; edit ruthlessly.” Although Kevin Powers receives extensive credit for this concept, I’m sure you have seen it many times, and it bears repeating repeatedly.
I particularly liked his chapter, “Major Wording Blunders.” He begins the chapter with a Bible verse from Proverbs 25:11,
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” The Bible (KJV)
He then notes “a word misused is like a train wreck running backward, or the splotched picture of a blocked satellite transmission.” He goes on to give us ten examples, like “irregardless, supposably, and heighth,” and my personal favorite, “all intensive purposes.”
“Grammar Nazis,” what they call people like us on Facebook, will love his chapter on “Flagrant Grammar Mistakes.” Perhaps, if some of those posting on Facebook would read his book, we wouldn’t have to correct their use of loose for lose, or it’s for its. But, there, their, they’re now, it’s all good!
I would encourage everyone, particularly writers, proofreaders, and editors to read this book and keep it as a handy reference on your desktop.
Don’t call yourself an aspiring writer. You either write or you don’t. Just because you haven’t published anything doesn’t mean you don’t write. You may just write for yourself, but you write. If you’re a writer, then write boldly and freely, and share your creativity with the world audience. — Michael Stover
As a journalism student and as a journalist, I have read several How-to books about writing, but this is a keeper that ranks right up there with “The Little Brown Handbook” and Stephen King’s “On Writing.” It is a tool I will use often.
This review was published first on Goodreads on 14 July 2018.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure statement for additional information.
My Other Book Reviews
Stephen Dalton is a retired US Army First Sergeant with a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland and a Certified US English Chicago Manual of Style Editor. Currently living in the Philippines, Stephen is a Top Writer in Virtual Reality.
You can see his portfolio here. Email [email protected]