nataliya

Bad punctuation can force an innocent animal to live outside the law. Now, instead of peacefully munching, it EATS, SHOOTS, and LEAVES.I proudly consider myself a punctuation martyr. The setting is an ordinary Soviet elementary school, first grade. I am kicked out of the classroom and sent home with an angry note. My transgression - in my wide-eyed seven-year-old innocence I dared to correct my (very Soviet) teacher on her comma placement and a spelling mistake. This crime landed me on her "black list" for the rest of the year. (*) This was the beginning of my grammar vigilante stickler life. * Do you think I can sue her for my therapy bills? Sometimes I discuss punctuation when I talk to my mother on the phone. (**) In my defense, she is a language teacher. Ah, never mind, I don't have a valid defense. ** (Yes, I know I should get a life. But I am ok with being pathetic.) And then I found this book. And realized that I am not alone. And had a very enjoyable few hours reading the creation of a fellow grammar stickler. And then developed a strong desire to join a militant wing of the Apostrophe Protection Society. (***) “Why did the Apostrophe Protection Society not have a militant wing? Could I start one? Where do you get balaclavas?” *** Should I be seeking therapy for this? The bills will, of course, go to the aforementioned teacher.This book is a must-read for all the grammar and punctuation sticklers out there. It is a witty and entertaining read perfect for those like me who start hyperventilating and breaking out in hives at the misuse of commas, apostrophes, and semi-colons. If you ever felt a surge of rage at those who do not understand the difference between contractions, possessives, and plurals, then this book will be like a breath of fresh air for you. 5 perfectly punctuated stars.****** Punctuation can save lives. That's right, kids. Take this to heart.