That or Which, and Why: A Usage Guide for Thoughtful Writers and Editors

By Evan Jenkins

Book Overview

That or Which, and Why is an insightful and witty guide to writing. Based on Evan Jenkins's long-running column 'Language Corner' in Columbia Journalism Review, the book is compiled of brief, alphabetically arranged entries on approximately 200 major writing stumbling blocks, from the wonderful world of 'that' and 'which' to trickier terrain like the correct usage of common idiomatic expressions.

Working from his experiences as a newsroom editor and teacher, Jenkins' humorous tone puts the reader at ease, unlike many of the writing and usage guides out there that are off-putting in their rigidity and dogmatism. He takes the 'we're-all-in-this-together' approach to teaching better writing - maintaining a light tone throughout the book and emphasizing flexibility and easy-to-use guidelines rather than delivering orders from Grammar-on-high.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0415977266
• ISBN13: 9780415977265
• Release Date: February 2007
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 178 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.5" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

lively and helpful

evan jenkins confronts all the quandries everyone faces putting words on paper or monitor -- more than versus over, fewer versus lesser, myself versus I -- and provides answers that are reasoned, witty, and most helpful. one of the charms of his book is a readiness to entertain the latest developments in the language and deal with them in judicious fashion. it's not often that you find a book that's both instructive and fun to read.

That or Which, and Why: A Usage Guide for Thoughtful Writers and Editors

I was very impressed with Evan Jenkin's ability to make things I have always wrestled with so easy to understand. His writing is so clear and has a light touch that makes it enjoyable to read. His book is a welcome addition for writers at all levels.

Write It Right

If you are a regular reader of the Columbia Journalism Review, "Language Corner" by Evan Jenkins (or just an occasional reader, for that matter), you will immediately recognize the Jenkins' style when you peruse his book, That or Which, and Why: A Usage Guide for Thoughtful Writers and Editors. At all times the teacher, Mr. Jenkins instructs his readers in the use of proper English grammar and correct syntax. His guidance is gentle, clear, sometimes chiding and always humorous. Comments and examples are presented in a manner that ensures that the lessons will be remembered and the reader entertained. Read just a few entries from this very useful and enjoyable book and you will be hooked on writing it right!

"Rules we must have"

"Rules we must have," says Evan Jenkins. With that premise in mind, this little book offers reminders about correct English usage, usage and grammar some readers struggled mightily to learn long ago. It advocates flexibility as well. That or Which, and Why meets every expectation, and is a success according to its stated purpose -- to put forth "preferred ways to use words... and phrases, good choices about practices." As such, it is both a delight to read and a sound guide. Mr. Jenkins presents his material well and his examples of usage (correct and otherwise) are well crafted, so as to be memorable. Those of use who are saddened by the decline in even caring about correct usage take heart when its cause is championed. Here, the criticism of incorrect usage is, mainly, gracious, and moves the reader right on to the correct usage, thus offering a positive, indeed encouraging, approach. One is charmed by the wit and, yes, the occasional feeling that Mr. Jenkins is talking to himself as well as to all of us. A treat for both audiences!

A Journalism Professor's Delight

It is not easy to teach a variety of types-from housewives to policemen--in continuing education courses how to write for the prints.This reference does it in plain language that answers the questions painlessly and in a way that sticks in memory. And let the kids read it too. Salutations from a grateful professor! Professor Topping