The Author’s work reflects researching the intricacies of the English language. The section about spelling reinforces the point that learning to spell words is a matter of memorization, given the immense number of exceptions to every rule of spelling. One cannot simply spell a word by using the letters that one hears when saying the word. English is an exceptionally difficult language both to learn and to teach, as clearly pointed out in both No Stinkin’ Grammar I and the current volume. I urge English teachers to read these books, not only for further knowledge of the English language, but also to remind themselves that the teaching of English grammar, writing, and spelling is a monumental and essential task. No Stinkin’ Grammar II delves deeply into the intricacies of the English language. The Author’s insight is presented in an easy-to-read, sometimes humorous approach. He presents information from the viewpoint of a writer who is challenged by the “stinkin’ grammar” of the exceptional English language.

Written from an Anthropological viewpoint, No Stinkin Grammar presents a humorous and sometimes satirical consideration of rules and exceptions in modern English. Beginning with the familiar sentence diagram and proceeding through the intricacies of use and misuse of modern English, it details frequently confusing and often contradictory applications of our language. Not offering a text on grammar or syntax it considers such elements of modern English as Wikipedia, silent letters, the origins and history of modern usage, spelling versus spoken English, the spelling bee, oxymorons, homonyms, Post It notes, cursive script, and other interesting features of American (US) English. Interesting to Teachers and students alike, it examines our language not from its core but at its perimeter where the rules are often fuzzy and even contradictory. It provides and amusing look at the language we share.

The Author's work reflects researching the intricacies of the English language. The section about spelling reinforces the point that learning to spell words is a matter of memorization, given the immense number of exceptions to every rule of spelling. One cannot simply spell a word by using the letters that one hears when saying the word. English is an exceptionally difficult language both to learn and to teach, as clearly pointed out in both No Stinkin' Grammar I and the current volume. I urge English teachers to read these books, not only for further knowledge of the English language, but also to remind themselves that the teaching of English grammar, writing, and spelling is a monumental and essential task. No Stinkin' Grammar II delves deeply into the intricacies of the English language. The Author's insight is presented in an easy-to-read, sometimes humorous approach. He presents information from the viewpoint of a writer who is challenged by the "stinkin' grammar" of the exceptional English language.

Essential and engaging essays about the joys and challenges of creative writing and teaching creative writing by a host of Canada’s leading writers.

Recalling an early upbringing in rural Illinois, the author relates the natural and academic influences on his philosophy beginning as a boy, including hunting, trapping, farming, and living in a small Midwestern community. The people, places, and events characteristic of small town life are recalled with a flair toward humor and an appreciation of times less hectic. Saturday night fish-fry gatherings, oiling the local streets, hunting, gathering natural resources, a myriad of other events comprising the fabric of small-town life intertwine in a story of individual development.