For fiction fans, this will give you some good ideas, but is missing the stylistic aspects that make fiction ring. If you want to write nonfiction, this is the guidebook for you. I especially liked his annotated article on Timbuktu, which brought his whole approach together. The first third, focusing on the basic elements, and the last third, where he gives some broad concepts, are better.
The book definitely drags a bit mid-section, as Zinsser relies too much on expansive quoting of others. We newbies cannot always afford to do that, but it is good to keep in mind what his lofty goals for us are, and to realize the differences in writing style with nonfiction. You can tell he is a successful writer of the old school, because he is uncompromising in his style and acceptance. It is a book for everybody who wants to learn how to write or who needs to do some writing to get through the day, as almost everybody does in the age of e-mail. I am writing a book on communication, so Zinsser’s hints were right in place. Most “how to write” books assume the writer wants to put out a best-seller or a great novel. This is one of the better books I have read on writing nonfiction. Great ideas, with a curmudgeonly attitude
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