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Book recommendation: “writing without bullshit”

Every once in a while a title draws me in. We were on vacation in San Diego and I saw Josh Bernoff’s new book, and just had to check it out.

I have never fancied myself as a good writer. Mediocre at best. When I tell people about my writing I describe it as more of a blog-type writing. As I opened “Writing without bullshit” for the first time, I was pleased that it seemed directed towards people like me, in the sense that I want to be a better writer, in all areas.

Most importantly for me, and the reason I decided to purchase the book, was that Bernoff wrote about honoring those we are writing to or presenting to by writing in a different way. This became my biggest lesson from the book, honoring those I am writing, something he calls The Iron Imperative. It has changed how I think about writing.

Some of the areas of writing he included are reports and email, both of which I use frequently in my work and could definitely be strengthened. My writing has changed. Many times I find myself writing an important email (aren’t they all?!) and referring back to the book to see if I am writing how he suggests.

I read “Writing without bullshit” once and have since referred to it or have read certain chapters again dozens of times. It’s one of those books. I highly recommend it. You can find it at your local bookstore, or they can order it for you. It’s definitely great to have for those of us who are always learning.

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