The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr and E.B. White

Elements of Style

There are plenty of writing guides out there – some excellent, some overwhelming, many both. Most of us don’t have the time or inclination to read them cover to cover, especially post-education. And the internet is always there with quick fixes on grammar. But there’s one little book that I think is worth your time: The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr and E.B. White.

Stephen King sings its praises in his book On Writing: ‘There is little or no detectable bullshit in that book… I’ll tell you right now that every aspiring writer should read The Elements of Style.’

The book is small – tiny, really – and straightforward, but it packs a punch. And it’s genuinely enjoyable to read. How many writing guides can you say that about?

Strunk’s original version came out in 1918, but E.B. White expanded and polished it in later editions. White’s influence adds a lot of charm, making it feel more like a conversation than a textbook. And it’s so short, you can finish it in an afternoon.

Its brevity is one of its biggest strengths. The advice is concise and memorable: ‘Omit needless words.’ That’s one of the rules, and the book follows it perfectly. Every page has a purpose.

And it’s not just about rules. Of course, it covers grammar and usage, but it also dives into style: How to write with clarity. How to sound like you. It encourages simplicity without sacrificing personality. That balance is what makes it so timeless.

If you’re a visual learner, track down the illustrated edition. Maira Kalman’s artwork brings everything to life and makes it a joy to flip through.

Used copies of The Elements of Style are cheap and easy to find online. Whether you’re editing for a living or just want to clean up your emails, this interesting and endlessly practical book will make a difference. It’s the one I always reach for.

 – Marissa Shalfi, Editor