SOCIAL SCIENCES

Vex, Hex, Smash, Smooch: Let Verbs Power Your Writing

by Constance Hale
Norton. 2012. c.400p. ISBN 9780393081169. $26.95. COMM
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Journalist Hale (Sin and Syntax) loves language. In this latest offering, she focuses on the power of verbs to make writing sing. After a discussion of the history of language and commentary about the importance of verbs, she organizes the book into topical sections, each arranged in four subsections based on the titular verbs. "Vex" clears up confusion about the rules; "Hex" challenges grammar myths and assumptions; "Smash" focuses on particular bad habits and offers examples of not-so-good writing; and "Smooch" showcases examples of writing in which the verbs dance. This book encourages readers to think about how language is used and how it evolves. Overall, it's a romp for the language obsessed, with a broad sampling of usage to help readers who want to become better writers.
VERDICT Hale's book will be useful for those seeking an accessible writing guide; it will also appeal to general readers and writers interested in increasing their understanding and mastery of the power found in a living language.
Reviewed by Nancy Almand, Fresno Cty. Coll. Lib., CA , Nov 01, 2012
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