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Language Arts & Disciplines Grammar & Punctuation

In Defence of Plain English

The Decline and Fall of Literacy in Canada

by (author) Victoria Branden

Publisher
Dundurn Press
Initial publish date
Sep 1992
Category
Grammar & Punctuation, Communication Studies, General
  • Paperback / softback

    ISBN
    9780888821430
    Publish Date
    Sep 1992
    List Price
    $15.99
  • eBook

    ISBN
    9781459721067
    Publish Date
    Sep 1992
    List Price
    $7.99

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Description

This indispensable guide to the English language belongs beside the dictionary in every Canadian home. Written in an easy-to-understand light-hearted style, the content of the book is nevertheless serious and important. Our language is declining; illiteracy is rampant. Worse, the sloppy, incorrect use of language is perpetrated by educators, the media, politicians, and others who should be setting a good example.

Besides giving simple illustrations of the correct use of grammar and choice of words, the author deals with the commonest offences: language misused, mis-spelled, and misunderstood, and the appalling use of words (usually incorrect) that many people consider sophisticated or "classy."

Using actual quotations from essays of university students, the media, and even "good" books, the author clearly defines bad English and explains in a straightforward manner how to change it to good English. What makes this book unique is its complete lack of pretentiousness and its powerful plea for the return of plain English.

About the author

Victoria Branden, BA (Hon.), MA, taught English for many years. She has written numerous articles and short stories for newspapers and magazines, including Saturday Night and Chatelaine, as well as radio and TV dramas and series for the CBC. Her published books include Understanding Ghosts and two novels, Flitterin' Judas and Mrs. Job. She received the 1991 award as "Environmentalist of the Year" for articles on environmental issues, to which she is deeply committed.

Victoria Branden's profile page