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lauralhart's review against another edition
4.0
3.5. Less a book focused on the semicolon and more a book that uses the semicolon as a gateway to discussion of punctuation and grammar descriptivism (as opposed to grammar prescriptivism). Meandering because it probably should’ve been shorter, but still a pleasant, quick read.
readingwithaddi's review against another edition
Not in the mood. Should read later.
slim's review against another edition
adventurous
informative
lighthearted
fast-paced
3.0
Semicolon is an informative and lighthearted read arguing in favour of the much-derided ‘semicolon’. Watson’s writing is clear and direct; and successfully achieves her aim. For anyone who takes a particular interest in both English grammar/punctuation and the history thereof, I would recommend this novel. It is short and enjoyable: at no point bogged down by minutiae or jargon.
That said, there is nothing particularly remarkable about this book; nor is the topic a must-read by anyone who falls outside of the above niche. Thus, if you are looking at this book—and seem interested—then I think that is all the information you need to know that this book is for you.
PS: Since I am not American—and would find this noteworthy myself—most of Watson’s examples and historical cases come from American usage. As Watson is an American author, I am sure that is because she is most familiar with that writing, but I would’ve certainly been interested to hear more about the semicolon’s usage and history in other English dialects, or even other languages that make use of the semicolon.
That said, there is nothing particularly remarkable about this book; nor is the topic a must-read by anyone who falls outside of the above niche. Thus, if you are looking at this book—and seem interested—then I think that is all the information you need to know that this book is for you.
PS: Since I am not American—and would find this noteworthy myself—most of Watson’s examples and historical cases come from American usage. As Watson is an American author, I am sure that is because she is most familiar with that writing, but I would’ve certainly been interested to hear more about the semicolon’s usage and history in other English dialects, or even other languages that make use of the semicolon.
ericj's review against another edition
informative
lighthearted
fast-paced
1.75
I like the idea of the book more than I liked the book itself. Attempts at humor fall flat, personal anecdotes add nothing, and despite about 45% of this book being Acknowledgements and Notes that I didn't read, it still felt a little long.
The first third-or-so was worth reading for the brief history of grammar education and punctuation usage, and so for that, 1.75 stars.
The first third-or-so was worth reading for the brief history of grammar education and punctuation usage, and so for that, 1.75 stars.
hannairene3's review
4.0
I feel called out and I don't want to talk about it. Watson is right. Communication is more important than grammar rules. My love for the Oxford Comma is actually secretly just my love for the English language and communication. I have a degree in ENGLISH and here I am agreeing that punctuation isn't always important.
Screaming crying throwing up
Screaming crying throwing up
catherine_thegreat's review against another edition
funny
informative
lighthearted
fast-paced
4.0
I’m not going to lie, as far as punctuation marks go, semicolons are probably one of my least favorites. This book, however, inspired me to give them another shot.
madhamster's review against another edition
4.0
At turns fun, then opinionated, this tiny book packs a pinch at times.
saracatalyst's review against another edition
funny
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
5.0