Let's be clear from the start: this is not a novel. ‘Practical English Composition: Book II’ is a textbook, published in 1916. There are no characters in the traditional sense, unless you count ‘The Student’ and ‘The Businessman’ that author Edwin L. Miller constantly imagines failing at writing. The ‘story’ is the argument Miller builds, chapter by chapter, that good writing is the bedrock of a successful life and a functioning society.

The Story

Miller structures his book like a course. He starts with the absolute basics—the sentence—and builds up to full business letters and narratives. Each chapter presents a rule, gives examples of bad writing (which he hilariously tears apart), and then provides a model to follow. The ‘plot’ is his relentless campaign against vagueness, laziness, and pretension. He wants writing to be clear, direct, and useful. Whether he’s explaining how to describe a fireplace or how to write a letter applying for a job, his message is consistent: think first, outline carefully, and choose simple, strong words.

Why You Should Read It

I picked this up as a curiosity, but I kept reading because Miller’s voice is so strong and his convictions are so intense. You see the world of 1916 through the lens of pen and paper. His advice on writing a ‘Letter of Application’ reveals what employers valued then. His frustration with fluffy descriptions shows a pragmatism that feels surprisingly modern. It’s also a reminder that the struggle to write well is not new. Every generation thinks the next one is ruining the language! Reading his critiques of ‘student themes’ from over a century ago, I found myself nodding along more often than I expected.

Final Verdict

This book is a niche read, but a rewarding one. It’s perfect for writers, history lovers, or teachers who want a glimpse into how writing was taught at the dawn of the 20th century. You’ll get solid, timeless advice buried under layers of old-fashioned style. You’ll laugh at his dramatic scorn for a poorly written sentence. And you might just walk away with a renewed appreciation for the simple, powerful goal of saying what you mean. It’s less of a manual to use today, and more of a fascinating conversation with a very particular mind from the past.