Art of Letter Writing - Hardcover

Organised by occasion, "The Art of Letter-Writing" contains samples of letters you might receive and how best to reply. It helps you learn what to write in invitations and thank-you letters for weddings, birthdays and anniversaries; find out the best ways to write polite but efficient letters of complaint, as well as how to sensitively phrase messages of condolence. Discover, too, the correct way to address envelopes and people according to their status. You'll find it easy to learn by example, as lots of sample letters that demonstrate ideal ways to correspond are included to use as a basis for your own letters. It includes guidance on getting the right tone for your letter, whether formal or informal, as well as the generally accepted format - for example, 'yours sincerely' or 'yours faithfully' is a stumbling block for many people. Since many people now use computers both for work and personal matters, the section on 'netiquette' is a useful resource - describing the correct way to write an e-mail. Some of the quaint mysteries of letter-writing are also revealed, like why a man is addressed 'esquire', making this the essential companion for anyone who values the power of the written word.

Georgina Harris is a writer and editor. She has worked in publishing for 15 years, written for the Daily Telegraph, edited art and interiors books and contributed to travel guides worldwide.