Tim de Lisle

Nick Newman

Writing matters. We all do it, and we all admire it when it’s done well. It doesn’t just express us; it represents us. We write to connect with other people – to make them laugh, or cry, or think. We also write to work out what we think ourselves: there’s nothing like it for concentrating the mind. So what’s the secret of a stylish essay, or story, or email? How do you make your sentences sparkle? Dorothy Parker had a point when she said that writing “is the art of applying the ass to the seat”, but in this slim volume, a leading editor who is also a pop critic and sportswriter shows you much fun you can have while sharpening your pen. Tim de Lisle’s book is packed with good, simple advice: be clear, be concise, be vivid, be organised. In a few breezy chapters, he explains the secrets of good writing, and along the way he quotes dozens of great lines, from the plays of Shakespeare to the journalism of Caitlin Moran. “Writing,” he says, “is like dancing, in that you can tell instantly if someone is good at it. But it’s also like driving in that it can be learnt.” Spend a couple of hours with this book and you’ll learn things that will help you in years to come.

Bring your prose to life. Make your sentences sparkle

How to Write Well

Lawrence Booth

This second edition of Young Wisden is the perfect introduction to one of the most enjoyable world sports. Packed with hundreds of new colour photographs and illustrations, and completely updated to include the latest stats and stars, this vibrantly designed book really brings the game to life. The authors take a wry look at every aspect of the game that a new fan could wish to know about, including: the basics - from how to read the scorecard to a crash course in the language types of cricket - the Twenty20, one-day and first-class formats of the game at all levels, from beach cricket through to international Test cricket batsmen, bowlers, fielders, keepers and thinkers - what it takes to be great in each position and plenty of info on the best there has been the world of cricket - the Test nations, the great grounds, and the fans on tour history, humour and numbers - the playing greats, the grudge matches, the records, and villains and tricksters. Written for children, there are sure to be plenty of adults taking a look over their shoulder at this brilliant introduction to cricket. "Incomparable really, different planet stuff. It is comprehensive without being bewildering, colourful but not showy, confident but never esoteric. It is also superbly designed." The Wisden Cricketer "Packed with information ... this is perfect for the youngsters who prefer Pietersen to Rooney." The Times "The cricketing world's bible specially written for children." The Economist

Tim de Lisle

Books

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