Edwin Newman (1919–2010)

It's a true pleasure to be reminded that there was a time when somone knew the difference between "less" and "fewer" - and cared. Witty, funny, and at times downright acerbic, Newman skewers those who abuse the language once known as English. And, although his title specifies America, he doesn't spare our brothers over the pond, either, turning his wit to various ways that the English mangle English, as well. He soon tires of that, and returns home, with a wide ranging look at pop culture, theatre, sports, and politics. The media come in for a fair share, as well. I'm afraid to recommend it to many modern readers, since he often throws the misuse out there without explanation, expecting his readers will be learned enough to catch the horrors, but common usage has become so degraded these days, I'm afraid many may not.… (mere)