Academic Writing Now with Readings is a rhetoric designed to cover the basics of a college writing course in a concise, student-friendly format. Each chapter concentrates on a crucial element of composing an academic essay and can be read in a single sitting. The book is loaded with “timesaver tips,” ideas for making the most of the student’s time, along with occasional warnings to avoid common errors made by student writers. Each short chapter concludes with questions and suggestions designed to reinforce the chapter’s key elements, facilitate small-group interactions, and trigger class discussion. A selection of 23 lively, thought-provoking readings serve as models for analysis and discussion. Readings are grouped by topic: entertainment, campus life, AI, the environment, and social and ideological difference. David Starkey’s flexible rhetoric is also available in an edition without readings: Academic Writing Now, 2e. Comments “Academic Writing Now with Readings is an essential companion to students embarking on the journey of strengthening and refining their writing craft. Its organization into bite-sized chunks makes the subject matter approachable and easy to understand. What I like best is David Starkey’s ability to demystify key concepts and give practical advice that students readily follow and apply to their writing. Complete with engaging and interactive exercises at the end of each chapter, Academic Writing Now with Readings is an indispensable resource for students aiming to hone their writing skills. This edition’s inclusion of fresh readings on contemporary issues will spark both conversation and research interests among students.” — Kristina Chesaniuk, Auburn University “Academic Writing Now with Readings works well as a starting point, a review or refresher, and a scaffold for student writers at all levels in composition and academic writing courses. I find the emphasis on time management and the succinct explanations especially helpful while prepping for class. The inclusion of themed readings—even including readings on the very current use of AI—works well both for in-class activities and for discussions on audience, impact, and Kairos of topics. The readings offer me a set of texts to use as I need, and they expose students to a wide range of ideas to explore before venturing into their own research.” — Heather Cross, University of Alabama at Huntsville
