Painless Grammar (Second Edition)

by: Rebecca Elliot, Ph.D.

Published by: Barron's Educational Series, Inc

Reviewed by Connie Anderson

This book’s title jumped out at me at my local bookstore. I had to have it for myself, but mostly to see IF this was a book I could recommend to others.

Now I know: Every household, office and student should have this book—if you want to write correctly, with confidence.

Written for middle grade and high school age, the book is designed “so grammar doesn’t hurt,” –no matter your age.

Painless Grammar covers:

- Parts of speech.

- Building and punctuating sentences.

- Agreement (between subject and verb; between pronoun and antecedent).

- Words: Misused, one word or two and confusing pairs.

- Editing.

- Email guidelines.

So, do you ever find yourself at home or at work wondering whether “its” or “it’s,” is correct, or how to use “ and ”˜ –or whatever your “grammar challenge is? The down-to-earth examples make Painless Grammar fun and a learnable moment for any age.

As an editor, I find frequent misuse of certain words, commas and semi-colons, plus run-on sentences—many things we learned in middle or high school, but forgot or need a refresher. Read a few pages a day, or use it as a resource when you aren’t sure. However, I have found that many people “think” they remember the rule, but don’t–so keep this book handy.

I recommend you buy several copies for your kids, home office or work. The clarity of the examples are complemented (yes, it is an “e”) by the ease of finding answers.

Armchair Interviews says: Almost everyone can use this useful resource.