Some Words About Words

Volumes 1 - 3

Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
484 Pages
Reviewed on 02/28/2025
Buy on Amazon

Author Biography

T. Kudla (author name of Thom Kudla/Thomas Kudla) is a prolific, award-winning poet and author, having written and published more than 20 books to date. His book HOW I AM DIFFERENT was named a finalist in the Poetry Category of the 2017 Next Generation Indie Book Awards. The ebook version won multiple medals in the 2017 Global Ebook Awards. HOW WE ARE DIFFERENT (HWAD), an Apple app based on that book, earned two gold medals in the 2018 eLit Book Awards and was recognized by the IBPA as a Benjamin Franklin Digital Award Silver Honoree.

His earlier books of poetry COMMENCEMENT and OUT OF CONTEXT won the 2017 IndieReader Discovery Award for Poetry. Thom's book WHAT MY BRAIN TOLD ME was selected as a finalist in the short story non-fiction category of the 2009 National Indie Excellence Awards. His writing has been anthologized in a number of books, including CHICAGO AFTER DARK and SILVER: AN ECLECTIC ANTHOLOGY OF POETRY & PROSE.

Thom Kudla was awarded a Master of Arts in Writing and Publishing from DePaul University. He earned a bachelor's from Indiana University, Bloomington, where he received a grant to write his first novel.

    Book Review

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Some Words About Words, Volumes 1 – 3 by To a T Editorial Group and edited by Thom Kudla is a must-have resource for writers, editors, and language enthusiasts. This is an insightful collection of grammar tips, punctuation guidance, and editorial wisdom. This omnibus edition also compiles decades of expertise into a single, easy-to-reference guide. Whether you're polishing your prose or diving deep into the intricacies of English, this book is a tribute to the art and craft of writing. It’s packed with practical advice for mastering the English language that students at all levels can benefit from, including those who have learned English as a second language and now want to add that flair and creative or naturalistic touch to their work.

To a T Editorial Group and editor Thom Kudla have compiled a really helpful resource that word lovers everywhere are sure to enjoy, but I also feel it’s a work that those on the cusp of discovering the beauty of language can use as a great springboard into that world. The organization offers a real treasure trove of editorial knowledge that’s essential reading for writers and editors, told in an engaging and witty style to make the information enjoyable. The part concerning writing about death was a particularly interesting section that I’ve never seen tackled before. The whole guide is comprehensive in its subject matter and in the way it respects and treats grammar and punctuation like an art form. Overall, Some Words About Words is an excellent read that I would certainly recommend to anyone with an interest in developing their skills and knowledge of the English language.

Carol Thompson

Some Words About Words is an enlightening and educational series edited by Thom Kudla. It is a comprehensive resource for writers, editors, and anyone passionate about the nuances of the English language. This three-volume collection compiles decades of professional expertise in writing, editing, and proofreading, making it an invaluable tool for enhancing the mastery of words. Volume 1 of the series is particularly robust, offering a plethora of tips on topics ranging from grammar and punctuation to word usage and spelling. Each tip is concisely presented, making it easy to digest and apply. Kudla’s approach is educational yet engaging, ensuring that readers are informed and inspired to put their new knowledge into practice.

The series excels in its practicality. For instance, Thom Kudla clarifies common confusions such as the differences between “affect” and “effect,” “complement” and “compliment,” and other similarly perplexing aspects of English. These theoretical clarifications are accompanied by examples that vividly illustrate the correct usages, enhancing learning. Moreover, the book contains insightful sections on less commonly discussed topics like the ethical use of language and the importance of precision in word choice. This not only broadens the reader’s understanding but also instills a deeper respect for language as a powerful tool for communication. Some Words About Words can be used as a handy reference for quick questions and a detailed guide for in-depth study. This series promises to be a trusty companion, encouraging clarity, creativity, and correctness in every word penned. It should be on the desk of every writer, editor, proofreader, and student.

Courtnee Turner Hoyle

For writers and language lovers, Some Words About Words, Volumes 1 - 3 is a comprehensive resource. Compiled by To a T Editorial Group and edited by Thom Kudla, this three-volume collection details years of social media posts. Each volume offers many insights into language and writing, covering topics like word usage, spelling, punctuation, self-publishing strategies, writing prompts, and common mistakes. Mostly presented in an alphabetical format, this guide provides readers with easily digestible entries that can be explored casually or studied at great length. The structure encourages new and experienced writers to improve their abilities gradually, making it a daily reference for building strong language habits.

To a T Editorial Group and Thom Kudla introduce questions to spark discussions on stylistic preferences and personal writing habits, encouraging a thoughtful approach to written communication. The work reveals common mistakes in speech and writing. Many readers will discover errors they have unknowingly made for years, and it will help them polish their speech. I have been involved with writing for years, but I learned new facts from the writing tips that have helped me strengthen my craft. The text offers deeper reflection on writing integrity and language evolution, and I especially noted the comments on language differences across cultures. With a well-organized index for quick reference and a motivational tone, this is an instructional tool and an inspirational guide for aspiring and seasoned writers, whether used as a daily resource or an occasional reference. If you hope to have greater accuracy and confidence in your writing, you will benefit from reading Some Words About Words, Volumes 1 - 3.

Leonard Smuts

Whether you are an aspirant writer, editor, or simply a lover of the English language, Some Words About Words: Volumes 1 - 3 will provide fascinating reading. Presented by Thom Kudla and the To a T Editorial Group, it covers every aspect of writing, publishing, proofreading, and editing. The To a T Editorial Group believes that language should be cherished and respected and presents essential guidelines for its correct usage. In the digital age, we are all writers, and the writing process is explained. The different types of writing are outlined, along with what constitutes a good author. The English language is rich in vocabulary and full of subtleties, as similar-sounding words do not always have the same meaning. The importance of choosing the correct word is emphasized, along with striving for refinement and being presentable intellectually. There is also no excuse for poor grammar or spelling. The book lists the top ten writing mistakes. Advice is given on topics that include the correct use of capitalization and colons, plural and possessive forms, and avoiding the passive voice. Readers are now consumers, not thinkers, despite enjoying a higher standard of education, and want to be entertained.

Some Words About Words poses intriguing questions, such as whether writing is an art, a craft, or a science, and whether the written word is dying in the digital age. The merits of printed books versus electronic formats are debated. The internet and social media are a mixed blessing, as they provide an outlet for opinion and connect people, but at the cost of good writing and grammar. This raises a further question concerning Facebook language usage and the “lazy shorthand” of the internet and text messages. The book has several A to Z sections that deal with frequently misused words, as well as commenting on grammar and word usage. The many writing tips include finding inspiration, conducting quality research, overcoming writer’s block, using pen names, branding, marketing, and promotion. First published between 2011 and 2014, this combined edition shares a wealth of ideas, answers, and helpful hints. Thom Kudla and To a T Editorial Group are to be congratulated on their approach and mission to improve writing standards. The book breaks its advice down into concise, digestible chunks, which is a lesson in itself. It is rounded off with a useful index. This work is essential reading for the target market. It is highly recommended and concludes by summarizing the central theme in just four words: “Words Mean The World.”

Delene Vrey

Whether you are a professional writer, a casual writer, or an email and social media creator, at some point, we all have to write something that other people have to read. To some, this is purely to convey helpful information; for others, it is central to their work. We all know that your writing reflects your level of education and professionalism. Some Words About Words, Volumes 1 – 3, put together by To a T Editorial Group and edited by Thom Kudla, is a comprehensive writing guide, be it a tweet on X, a Facebook or Instagram post, or more professional work. These three volumes have advice and examples to help you reach your writing potential. Over a few years, Tweet Tips and Facebook Columns have been put together as a hands-on and essential guide to writing, from capitalization to the complete writing process. To a T Editorial Group provides inspiration, writing techniques, and grammar advice to benefit anyone who has to deliver some written work.

Some Words About Words by To a T Editorial Group is a neatly put-together source of information and guidelines to help any writer, no matter how skilled they are or what platform they write for. It will lead the aspiring author from brainstorming through to publishing, providing insightful advice gleaned over the years. The volumes are divided into sections; one is devoted to the Tweet Tips, posted on X from 2011 and onward, where the tips are short and to the point. Another section under Facebook Columns is blog posts posted on To a T Editorial Groups' Facebook page. Each entry is accompanied by the date published, using their layout to underline further and teach correct blog posting and using social media. As a reviewer and editor, I found this volume filled with truths and tips, some of which I knew, some I had forgotten about, and even some I have sometimes wondered about. This volume is essential in any home or office as we write daily and want our writing to reflect proper education and communication skills.

Ronél Steyn

To a T Editorial Group specializes in assisting writers with editing and proofreading services, to name a few. With the help of Thom Kudla, Some Words About Words, Volumes 1–3, brings life to some of the previous social media posts that contain valuable information. Each volume consists of “Tweet Tips” and “Facebook Columns” from 2011 to 2014. The “Tweet Tips” range from highlighting the importance of grammar to word definitions that might trip us up. The “Facebook Columns” are filled with inspiration and motivation. This book is a gentle reminder to pay attention to the words we write and to respect them.

Thom Kudla has done an amazing job of compiling these social media posts from the experts at To a T Editorial Group and creating something timeless. The tips regarding grammar and spelling are invaluable and can serve as a quick reference for any writer. I especially enjoyed the posts about the sacred relationship that exists between writer and reader. Some Words About Words, Volumes 1–3, is ideal for writers in all areas, giving meaningful insight to the written word and the power it holds. The overall layout of the combined volumes drives this book from start to finish without missing a beat. With the constant rush of instant gratification in this technologically advanced world, we are reminded to respect ourselves and the sentences we create. I enjoyed this book. I found value in its pages, and I believe all “grammar guardians” will have as much fun as I did reading.