Back to the basics of good grammar

<p>If you can't remember what the difference is between affect and effect, or where to use a semicolon or a comma, then you may want to keep a copy of “The Best Little Grammar Book Ever!” on your bookshelf.</p><!-- Nothing to do. The paragraph has already been output --><p>Written by Petaluma Junior High School English teacher Arlene Miller, the user-friendly guide tackles common grammar mistakes people make in writing, reviews parts of speech and punctuation, and identifies commonly misspelled, misused and mispronounced words.</p><p>“I wasn't always really into grammar, but I did like it in school and had that kind of mind for it,” said Miller. “Grammar is structured. It's a black-and-white, left-brained thing. I much prefer teaching grammar than literature.”</p><p>Miller was inspired to put together a grammar book after many years of working as an editor, writer and technical writer. Her career naturally led her in the direction of becoming a grammarian.</p><p>“From all of my experience, I learned a lot about grammar and the mistakes people make all of the time,” said Miller. “I began to think about putting a book together on the subject and began outlining it four or five years ago.”</p><p>After attending a class at Santa Rosa Junior College on how to start an e-business, Miller was inspired to take her book outline to the next level. </p><p>“I thought, ‘I'm going to write this book!'” said Miller. “And I finally did. I finished it at the end of the school year last year and then wondered what to do with it.”</p><p>Knowing that going through a traditional publisher would probably be impossible, Miller decided to take on the task of self-publishing. Fortunately, she stumbled across an online group on Yahoo for self-publishers, filled with other authors able to provide her with help and advice.</p><p>“Through the group, I was able to learn about and find a printer, cover designer and inside designer,” said Miller. “I wanted to release the book last fall, but things took a little longer than I expected they would. May 1 was the official release date.”</p><p>The book is currently available on her Web site, www.bigwords101, at Copperfield's Books in Petaluma and at Borders in Santa Rosa, where she will be holding a book signing from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 8.</p><p>She's also currently working on a contract to have her book offered through Amazon.com.</p><p>“The Best Little Grammar Book Ever!” contains a helpful review of basic grammar and punctuation, along with topics such as irregular verbs and parallel writing. She uses the book with her junior high students and also teaches grammar workshops based on the book, at local colleges.</p><p>“I finished one grammar workshop at Santa Rosa Junior College and was surprised by how many people signed up for it,” said Miller. “There's a real interest in this and I think people see the need for it.”</p><p>According to a report from the U.S. Department of Education, nearly half of all adult Americans read and write so poorly that they have trouble holding down jobs. The National Commission on Writing also estimates that American businesses spend $3.1 billion annually training employees to write.</p><p>“In today's economy and tight job market, it is even more important to put your best foot forward by communicating effectively in both writing and speaking,” she said.</p><p>To learn more about “The Best Little Grammar Book Ever!” visit www.bigwords101.com.</p><p>(Contact Yovanna Bieberich at yovanna.bieberich@arguscourier. com)</p>