Woe Is I

by Patricia T. O'Conner
Woe Is I cover
Good Books rating 4.47
Language and Linguistics
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Technical
  • ID: 7080
  • Added: 2025-12-10
  • Updated: 2025-12-10
  • ISBN: 9781101458051
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2010-07-27
  • Reviews: 3

Patricia T. O'Connor, former New York Times Book Review editor and linguistic expert, brings her signature humor and expertise to the updated edition of Woe Is I. This guide tackles the most perplexing grammar conundrums, offering down-to-earth explanations and practical solutions. With new chapters on spelling and punctuation, and fresh insights into the nuances of English grammar and usage, Woe Is I is an essential companion for anyone looking to master the intricacies of the language./n/nO'Connor's lively and engaging style makes learning grammar enjoyable and accessible. Whether you're a student, a professional, or simply someone who loves language, this book provides the tools you need to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of English with confidence and clarity.

Reviews
Reddit - r/grammar · 2025-12-10
positive 4.50

The book is praised for its clear and concise explanations of grammar rules, making it a great resource for both native and non-native speakers.

The Reddit reviewer highly recommends Woe Is I for its clear and concise explanations of grammar rules. They appreciate how the book addresses common grammar issues that many native speakers struggle with, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their writing skills. The reviewer also notes that the book is particularly useful for non-native English speakers who want to understand the nuances of the language.

Quick quotes

    Woe Is I by Patricia O'Conner is a great little book. She has a good handle on all the lacunae in a native speaker's grammar knowledge, and she explains them in a way that's easy to understand.

    The book is particularly useful for non-native English speakers who want to understand the nuances of the language.

    The book is a great resource for anyone looking to improve their writing skills.

Amazon UK · 2025-12-10
positive 4.40

The advice is nearly always on point for those who care about grammar, and the book is enjoyable to read.

The Amazon UK reviewer finds Patricia O'Conner's advice to be highly accurate and valuable, especially for those who are passionate about grammar. They appreciate the book's engaging and enjoyable tone, which makes learning about grammar a pleasant experience. The reviewer also notes that the book is particularly useful for those who want to improve their writing skills.

Quick quotes

    Patricia O'Conner did not disappoint, and her advice nearly always hits its mark for people who actually care about the finer points of grammar.

    O'Conner unties the knottiest grammar tangles and displays the same lively humor that has charmed and enlightened grateful readers for years.

    With new chapters and updates, the book remains a go-to resource for grammar enthusiasts.

SoBrief · 2025-04-10
mixed 4.50

The book is praised for its witty and accessible approach to grammar, making it helpful for both novices and experienced writers. Some readers find it a bit inconsistent in its depth.

SoBrief highlights the book's engaging and humorous style, which makes complex grammar rules easier to understand. The reviewer appreciates how it tackles common writing struggles with clarity and wit. However, they note that while the book is generally helpful, some chapters feel uneven in their depth and detail, which might leave some readers wanting more on certain topics.

Quick quotes

    Woe Is I receives mixed reviews. Some praise its witty, accessible approach to grammar, finding it helpful for both novices and experienced writers.

    The book tackles common writing struggles with clarity and wit.

    Some chapters feel uneven in their depth and detail.

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