Homophones – words that sound the same but have different spellings and different meanings – can be a problem for both native English speakers and those learning the language. This clear, cross-referenced guide sets out homophones from a/A/eh to You’ll/Yule, with definitions for each word and examples of usage, plus a listing of words such as Flaunt and Flout that are often confused.

During his many years as an intelligence officer, Craig Shrives learned how to write clearly for the eyes of British and American generals. In this guide he shares his practical experience: he identifies common mistakes and ambiguities and offers suggestions for correcting and clarifying what you want to say, and a final section gives useful advice on easily confused words. (Previously sold in Postscript as Grammar for Grown-ups.)

The right words are essential to clarity of thought and expression, but the use of digital media promotes more speed, more words – and less precision. The veteran journalist Harold Evans has edited everything from battlefield reports to the thoughts of Henry Kissinger, and in this concise, witty guide, he brings his insight to bear on the craft of writing well. Through practical examples using real copy, he shows how editing can cut through clichés, jargon and verbosity to enable clear, effective communication.

With 29 volumes containing 40,000 entries, the vast eleventh edition of the Encyclopaedia Britannica was a high point of Edwardian optimism and is considered to mark the last stand of the Enlightenment. Boyles draws on letters and newspaper articles to trace the history of its production and to reveal the contribution of two American entrepreneurs in the spectacular revival of an ailing British publication. Felt-tip mark on lower trimmed edge and American-cut pages.

Religious texts pose many challenges for writers and editors that are not covered by general style guides, whether in print or online. This comprehensive, easy-to-use manual provides clear answers to such questions, including Biblical citation, capitalization, abbreviation and dialogue. Fully updated to keep pace with changes in English usage, it includes an all-new word list and advice on turning blogs into books.