The book became the outline for my entire syllabus because it's so well organized.

The students in my class did not rank the book well at the end of class review, but I don't think they put much effort into the course or read the book.
I'll be using the book again to teach the course though.


A Great Textbook   February 15, 2003
 9 out of 10 found this review helpful

This is the best writing textbook I've ever used. I bought it for my college writing class, but had a hard time giving it up after my class was over. Not something you hear a lot about a textbook.


Excellent Composition Reader!   April 4, 2000
 22 out of 22 found this review helpful

I instruct a first year composition class at a northeastern university. I have tried several other readers--including Outlook and Insights, Models for Writers, and Ten on Ten. While I think those books are full of good content, none is as carefully structured and presented as Reading Critically, Writing Well.

From the very first page, it presents important information clearly and concisely. Beginning with examples of autobiographical writing and ending, predictably, with information on research strategies and documentation, it is perfect for a first year composition student whose primary goals is to learn the most effective and evocative techniques for expository writing.

I love the way each segment ends with ideas and strategies to drive home the main topic of that section. Each chapter concludes with an emphasis on the necessary skills of editing and proofreading. While this might seem gratuitous, this repetition is very effective in raising the students' awareness of these issues.

Overall, I found the selected essays engaging, evocative, and thought-provoking. My class is fascinated by the discussion of topics as wide-ranging as early 20th century courtship rituals and reincarnation. I highly recommend this to composition instructors looking for a clear concise text.