Title: Guide to Genealogical Writing
Authors: Penelope L. Stratton and Henry B. Hoff
Format: Paperback
Published: 2014
Synopsis: (from NEHGS website) Whether you are new to genealogy or have been researching for years, this improved edition of our bestselling “writing guide” will help you present your findings in writing. Using examples from NEHGS’s award-winning publications, our experts show you how to write your family history clearly and accurately—from building a genealogical sketch to adding images to indexing. An appendix on genealogical style covers alternate spellings of names, when and how to use lineage lines, how to include adopted children and stepchildren, aspects of double dating, and other issues faced by genealogical writers. This update of Genealogical Writing in the 21st Century is a must-have for anyone interested in sharing their research!
My Rating: 
This book caught my attention before it was even published and I of course had to get my order in early so that when it was published, I’d be among the first to receive a copy. Although this is considered an update to Genealogical Writing in the 21st Century (second edition published in 2006), I tend to disagree, only because I feel it is its own book. While there is some topical overlap between the two books, each is written and organized differently.
I have to commend the authors of Guide to Genealogical Writing because writing about genealogical writing is no easy task. There are many different aspects of writing and the authors do a good job of discussing and illustrating that diversity. There was discussion on books, articles, and other types of publications.
What I like about this book is that it considers every aspect of the process, from conception to publication. The easy-to-understand guidance helps make the idea of writing your family history an attainable reality. Additionally, there are several visual examples that help illustrate key points.
I was quite surprised that there was no mention of ebooks or electronic publishing, given the current trends. Readers however do get a crash-course in publishing a book in print, which is helpful since being prepared is half the battle.
I want to mention that although Guide to Genealogical Writing is geared toward the writing aspect, I think it would also be helpful for editors, designers, and other staff who work on genealogical publications (whether serial or books), particularly if the job is new to them. Because the book outlines the typical process for writers submitting materials to serial publications, it can be thought of in the reverse for editors et al to get a handle on their own process and perhaps make improvements. Even as an experienced writer and editor, I found myself thinking of ideas to improve the genealogical serial publications for which I serve as editor.
And of course, because I’m an editor and read like an editor, I have to mention that there were a few errors, sadly one on the very first page. Hopefully some of these will be taken care of before the next print run.
Overall, Guide to Genealogical Writing is worth the twenty dollar price tag. It offers sincere encouragement, especially to those who are terrified of the writing process. Even if you haven’t thought about writing your family history or if you feel overwhelmed by the thought of it, pick up a copy of this book. Once you read it, you’ll be surprised by the many ideas running through your mind and how simple the process can be when explained in a sensible manner.
Purchase Guide to Genealogical Writing via the New England Historic Genealogical Society bookstore.
Read my other reviews of both non-fiction and fiction genealogy-related books.
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