Reading and Writing. Kind of like the chicken and the egg scenerio. Without one, there really isn't the other. There is no doubt that reading has a profound effect on your writing. Reading not only helps expand vocabulary, but it also reinforces proper grammar in a non nun-and-ruler type way. Although thank-you notes don't need to be -- and most times shouldn't be -- great works of prose, it helps if at 35, your TYN to grandma doesn't sound the same as it did when you were 10.
I'm compiling a list of books that I need to read. It's my life-long booklist because that's how long it will take me to get through them all. My brother actually got me started with a list of about 35 must-read books, and I've asked friends, family and co-workers for their additions. Some are classics, some should be, and some are just fantastic reads. I'm compiling a list of my favorites here (sidebar to the right), specifically ones that I felt had an impact on my writing style.
I've just listed titles. Most are pretty mainstream, but if you need authors, just shoot me an email. If you have one I need to add to my booklist, email that to me, too.
I'm compiling a list of books that I need to read. It's my life-long booklist because that's how long it will take me to get through them all. My brother actually got me started with a list of about 35 must-read books, and I've asked friends, family and co-workers for their additions. Some are classics, some should be, and some are just fantastic reads. I'm compiling a list of my favorites here (sidebar to the right), specifically ones that I felt had an impact on my writing style.
I've just listed titles. Most are pretty mainstream, but if you need authors, just shoot me an email. If you have one I need to add to my booklist, email that to me, too.
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