Bruce Ross-Larson

This is a somewhat disappointing reference subtitled A manual for everyone who works with words. It is organized into two sections. What Editors Look For, contains 11 chapters that deal with topics like cutting out fat, finding better words, using active voice and achieving consistency. Each chapter introduces one or more basic principles and illustrates each with examples. What Editors Cut, Change, and Compare is an alphabetic listing of recommendations.

Section one can be read in a couple of hours by readers who want a quick overview of the author’s views. Section two concerns words rather than grammar or parts of speech. Participles, verbs, and nouns will not be found in section two under those labels. As such, readers may use if as a reference when concerned about the use of specific words and phrases. For example, are used to, for the most part, namely, and totally should be cut.

One surprising feature is the instances of poor writing. For example, “All subordinate clauses should be scrutinized to see whether …” converts scrutiny to a verb and uses passive voice. Examine (or Inspect) all subordinate clauses to determine … would illustrate the use of active voice.

Writers who have a question about a particular word or phrase and already have a copy of Edit Yourself on their bookshelf may find this volume useful to consult. I advise those who do not own a copy to find a more useful reference.… (altro)