Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

"Says Who? A Kinder, Funner Usage Guide for Everyone Who Cares About Words" by Anne Curzan is a refreshing take on the English language that challenges the traditional notions of grammar and usage. Curzan, a linguist and veteran English professor, presents a guide that is both informative and entertaining, making it accessible to a wide audience.

The book's title, "Says Who?", sets the tone for a journey through the evolving landscape of English, where Curzan encourages readers to question the so-called immutable rules of language. She deftly navigates through common grammatical conundrums, such as punctuation, verb forms, word order, and pronouns, providing clear and nuanced guidance.

What sets this book apart is its approach to grammar as a living entity, reflecting the diversity and dynamism of its speakers. Curzan's writing is never snooty or scoldy; instead, she adopts a conversational tone that invites readers to explore the intricacies of language without fear of judgment. Her examples are drawn from literature, newspapers, television, and more.

"Says Who?" is a manifesto for language inclusivity and personal expression. Curzan empowers readers to become caretakers of language rather than gatekeepers.

Anne Curzan's "Says Who?" is a must-read for anyone interested in the English language, whether they are grammar sticklers or colloquial users. It's a book that makes nerding out about language not just educational but also fun. With its lively humor and humanity, "Says Who?" is a pragmatic key to understanding the ever-changing nature of language and how we can all play a part in its evolution.

Thank you NetGalley and Crown Publishing for the copy of Says Who? By Anne Curzan. I wondered why so much grammar seems different since I learned it decades ago. This book is a fascinating look at why grammar and word usage are ever-changing. You might be surprised that some social media (or your) pet peeves are actually no longer considered to be incorrect. This isn’t a simple read. Curzan tries to interject humor into a dry subject, but I’ll use it as a reference book! If you love grammar and words, this is the book for you!

Overwhelming is how I would describe this book. It seems like the author took everything she ever learned about words and packed it into this book. I believe the information would have been useful if there wasn’t so much fluff associated with it.
Thank you Crown publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview an advance copy of this book.