Recommended by Cornell West

I listened to the audio version of this book narrated by the author.
I’m a retired high school English and journalism teacher, so I wasn’t looking to necessarily learn anything about grammar that I didn’t already know, and I didn’t. I guess I heard a couple of alternative terms I hadn’t heard, but for the most part, after 40 years of teaching grammar, I have a pretty sound foundation in it. And this book isn’t for those who are looking to bone up on grammar because they slept through that part of English class when they were in school. Those people would likely fall asleep while reading or listening to this book too. I read it for the philosophical discussions of how grammar fits into our lives, and in this sense, Weinstein didn’t disappoint. I’m not sure who the audience is for the book because it surely would have to appeal to more than the audience of former teachers to make it worth the publisher’s while to publish it. Maybe there are more people than I know who just have a hobbyist’s interest in learning about the language. ( )

Grammar for a Full Life is not like any grammar book I’ve ever read. It’s a self-help book that seeks to make you a better person as much as a better writer. Lawrence Weinstein explores big issues like agency, belonging, freedom, and mindfulness, all viewed through the lens of grammar. He looks at how grammar choices may reflect personality traits and distinct ways of understanding and dealing with life. More important, Weinstein considers how, by intentionally making certain choices about grammar, we can foster our well-being.

Grammar for a Full Life caught my eye because I like any grammar book. It captured my heart because of its unique charm. ( )