Ease Reading-Find Your Next Favorite Book

Hot Search

The Elements of Style Illustrated

william strunk jr. e.b. white maira kalman

... Show More
Every English-language writer knows Strunk and White's famous little writing manual, The Elements of Style. Many people between the ages of seventeen and seventy can recite the book's mantra—make every word tell—and still refer to their tattered grade school copy when in need of a hint on how to make a turn of phrase clearer, or a reminder on how to enliven prose with the active voice. Considering that millions of copies have been sold to millions of devotees, you might not think to ask what could enhance this (almost) perfect classic. In fact, the addition of illustrations allows readers to experience the book's contents in a completely new way, making the whole learning experience more colorful and clear, as well as adding a whimsical element that compliments the subtly humorous tone of the prose. The Elements of Style Illustrated will come to be known as the definitive, must-have edition.

Maira Kalman is the offbeat and wildly talented illustrator of twelve children's books, numerous covers for The New Yorker magazine, fabrics for the fashion designers Isaac Mizrahi and Kate Spade, watches and accessories for the Museum of Modern Art, and a mural at the elegant Wavehill estate in Riverdale, among other projects. Her sophisticated and witty images that are yet bright and fanciful have won her a devoted following, especially among young urbanites. Maira Kalman is acknowledged by the E. B. White estate as the single artist trusted to illustrate the revered The Elements of Style.

The Elements of Style Illustrated brings a fresh immediacy to the well-loved, much-valued, and still on-point work that has become an institution. While giving the classic work a jolt of new energy to appeal to contemporary readers, Kalman's illustrations are themselves timeless, designed to sit alongside the ever-enduring manual for another fifty years and more.

156 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1,1918

This edition

Format
156 pages, Hardcover
Published
October 20, 2005 by Penguin Press
ISBN
9781594200694
ASIN
1594200696
Language
English

More editions

About the author

Profile Image for william strunk jr.

william strunk jr.

... Show More
William Strunk Jr. was a professor of English at Cornell University and, together with E.B. White, author of The Elements of Style (1918).

Readers also enjoyed

Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
32(32%)
4 stars
36(36%)
3 stars
32(32%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews All reviews
Profile Image for Kimberly .
Solista
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 14,2025
... Show More
This tiny little book took me an incredibly long time to read. At the beginning, it sounds just like a grade ten English textbook, which made me keep putting it down. Eventually, I even relocated it from my bedside to behind the toilet. However, it does get better as you progress.

It is filled with a wealth of great information for writers. It's not just basic knowledge but also contains the subtle nuances that many of us don't typically think about on a daily basis. I might say that I disagree with one or two of the rules within its pages, but I'm not the authority on such matters. Having said that, it is a guide to style - not just the language.

Once I actually dedicated my time to it, I obtained a great deal from this book. It offers valuable insights and tips that can help writers enhance their skills and improve their writing. It's a resource that is worth exploring and taking the time to understand.

Overall, despite its slow start, this little book has proven to be a useful and informative read for those interested in writing.
0 0 Reply
Profile Image for Kimberly .
Arkuatic
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 14,2025
... Show More
I truly despised this book. It was the epitome of literary elitism at its worst. The entire tone of the book grated on me, constantly dictating, "If you write like this or say this, it's incorrect." So much of what was presented in the "Improperly used words" section could be hotly debated, as language has evolved to a point where many of these so-called rules no longer hold true.

Moreover, I loathed the imperative style in which it was written. Instead of ordering me around, it should have offered encouragement, highlighting the positives of writing rather than simply emphasizing what not to do.

The last chapter, which I assume was written by E.B. White, was a bit more positive. I could clearly distinguish where one author's voice ended and the other's began.

What really frustrates me about this book is how discouraging it can be for novice writers. Seeing so many nit-picky "rules" might make them wonder, "Why bother?" For those who have a passion for writing, perhaps this book could serve as a source of "friendly reminders." However, I'm afraid that beginning writers who come across this book might be deterred, thinking that writing has an overwhelming number of rules and giving up before they even start.

I have a collection of other writing books that are written with a distinct voice and flow, and are truly inspiring rather than infuriating. For example, "In the Middle" by Nancie Atwell, "Clearing the Way" by Mark Gasparotto, "Crafting Authentic Voice" by Tom Romano, "The Craft of Revision" by Donald M. Murray, and "Style: Toward Clarity and Grace" by Joseph M. Williams. I will definitely continue to turn to these books rather than this one.

0 0 Reply
Profile Image for Kimberly .
honolulumarch
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 14,2025
... Show More
This was an extremely rapid reading!

It is a valuable book for teachers, with certain fundamental linguistic and stylistic rules lucidly expounded. I have identified numerous errors that my students perpetually make, and for amusement, I list some of them here:

- Always refer the participial phrase at the commencement of a sentence to the grammatical subject, so as not to result in sentences such as the following: "Being in a dilapidated condition, I was able to purchase the house very inexpensively." Poor me!;

- Do not form paragraphs consisting of a single sentence (I will never weary of repeating this, for the consequence of violating this rule is so artificial and emphatic!);

- Do not utilize negation as a means of evasion, but only as a denial or an antithesis);

- Do omit (please!) needless expressions like "the fact that";

- Place modifiers as closely as possible to the word they modify: "He found only two mistakes" rather than "He only found two mistakes";

- Use the word "clever" solely for minor matters;

- Do not employ etc. at the conclusion of a list of persons;

- Do not mistake "who" for a complement when it is actually a subject to a second verb: "His brother who he said would send him the money" instead of "His brother whom he said would send him the money"

There are many other sound rules that I leave you the pleasure of uncovering!
0 0 Reply
Profile Image for Kimberly .
DenkiDestroy99X
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 14,2025
... Show More
People often claim that this is a classic work on writing. However, I, myself, simply didn't have that feeling.

Perhaps the reason lies in the fact that I disliked the shrill and hectoring tone that prevailed for most of this book. Every time the author said "Don't do this", I couldn't help but think "Screw you, who are you to tell me what not to do".

The final section titled "An Approach to Style" was marginally better. But then again, it was written by E.B. White, who is famous for "Charlotte's Web".

I can somewhat understand why some people might have a liking for it. Nevertheless, I'm just not among those individuals.

It seems that everyone has their own preferences when it comes to literary works, and this particular one just didn't resonate with me.

Maybe others can find valuable insights and inspiration within its pages, but for me, it failed to leave a lasting impression.

Nonetheless, I respect the opinions of those who do appreciate it and can see the merit that they might find in this classic on writing.

0 0 Reply
Profile Image for Kimberly .
TheCoolGuy82
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 14,2025
... Show More
I started reading it again immediately.

As a college instructor, I was truly amazed at how this book had such a profound impact on me. It was as if I was channeling Will Strunk himself while I was lecturing. I was able to lecture with humor, strength, and conviction, which made the whole teaching experience so much more engaging and enjoyable for both me and my students.

Moreover, I also noticed that I felt more in command of lecturing about grammar and style. This little book had given me the confidence and the knowledge to explain these complex concepts in a clear and concise manner.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that this little book deserves a place on your bookshelf. It is not only a great reference guide but also a source of inspiration and motivation for anyone who wants to improve their writing skills.
0 0 Reply
Profile Image for Kimberly .
SandyAxe78
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 14,2025
... Show More
This small book is truly a mountain of excellent writing advice!

It contains a wealth of valuable tips and techniques that can help writers of all levels improve their craft. Whether you are a beginner just starting out or an experienced writer looking to refine your skills, this book has something for everyone.

The advice is presented in a clear and concise manner, making it easy to understand and apply. From choosing the right words and phrases to structuring your paragraphs and sentences, every aspect of writing is covered.

You will learn how to capture the reader's attention, develop a unique voice, and convey your ideas effectively. The book also includes practical exercises and examples to help you put the advice into practice and see immediate results.

In conclusion, if you are serious about improving your writing, this small book is a must-read. It is a treasure trove of writing wisdom that will inspire and guide you on your journey to becoming a better writer.
0 0 Reply
Profile Image for Kimberly .
MaeSis
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 14,2025
... Show More

Ratings play a crucial role in various aspects of our lives. When it comes to writing, having a 5* rating out of five is truly remarkable. It indicates that the work is of the highest quality and meets or exceeds the expectations of the readers.


The essential guide to HOW to write is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their writing skills. Starting with a guide that focuses on achieving the desired effect is an excellent approach. It provides clear instructions and practical tips on how to structure your writing, use appropriate language, and engage the reader.


By following this guide, you can learn how to create compelling stories, persuasive arguments, and informative articles. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced writer, this guide can help you take your writing to the next level and achieve the 5* rating you deserve.

0 0 Reply
Profile Image for Kimberly .
exoticismisgross
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 14,2025
... Show More
Many other books on writing pale in comparison to the direct helpfulness of this one. I have committed every conceivable mistake while writing, and I'm still making them right now. Improvement is indeed a lifelong journey. This highly readable and referenceable book is a must-have to keep in the desk drawer, to be perused both before and after writing.


Besides the ongoing debate that the English language is moving towards less standardization, many editors, agents, publishers, and readers demand or expect grammar at a PhD level (whatever that might entail). However, it really shouldn't require years of reading and diagramming sentences to assemble words in a satisfactory manner.


If you have experimented with other how-to-write books, I suggest setting them aside until you've completed this one. It might just contain all the essential knowledge you need in a much more concise package. As a general rule, I'm not a proponent of criticism. I could nitpick most written works, and you could do the same to mine. It's human nature to look for flaws. In order to write competitively, writers must equip themselves against critics. But more importantly, communication thrives on clarity and articulation. I firmly believe that a close examination of this book will enhance a writer's awareness of certain flaws that often go unnoticed by most of us. However, these flaws can undermine an otherwise outstanding piece of writing.


Wouldn't we all aspire to write at a level where grammar is no longer a concern, where each sentence flows effortlessly from the pen with the incisive brilliance of Oscar Wilde's polished prose, on the very first draft, of course, where we can explore the farthest reaches of our imagination and mind without fretting about "should the comma go here, or here?" But I'm not entirely certain if such a state of writing nirvana truly exists. Revision seems to be an endless process.


In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up this book. I have far more trust in it than in those bloggers (paid by the word) who post so-called "Helpful Tips."
0 0 Reply
Leave a Review
You must be logged in to rate and post a review. Register an account to get started.