[lisahng]

As a native speaker of English, I find that it has been hard for me to learn the grammar of English. Would any of you have any suggestions for grammar books that are easy to read, understand, and not boring?

[emile]

Grammar is not always the most interesting topic in the world. In class we try to make it interesting by tying it in to the other skills: speaking, writing, reading and listening.

I like the Focus on Grammar books, which contain reading, listening and discussions. Obviously, though, it is meant for class use rather than individual use.

Also check out my site: www.roadtogrammar.com (which I notice is down this morning but should be back online soon)

[Eric18]

First, avoid all the grammar fundamentalists and their books. English, like any real language, remains an evolving system with more guidelines than absolute rules.

Having said that and recognizing the need to post excellent scores on standardized examsn, I would suggest the excellent Grammar in Use series by Cambridge. It provides solid examples, systematically illuminates key points, and avoids the common pitfall of focusing on exceptions rather than rules.

You might also consult Communicative Grammar book by Leo Jones for intermediate and advanced students.

[clivehawkins]

When I started my CELTA course I realised that I didn't have a clue about grammar! In a panic I went out and bought English Grammar In Use by Raymond Murphy. It's well presented and easy to understand.
Hope that helps.

[HUE]

Grammar books by their very nature are usually boring. But I agree with Clive in that Raymond Murphy is pretty good. The resident grammarian at my company likes the following:

1. Oxford Practice Grammar by George Yule
2. Exploring Grammar in Context by Carter, Hughes, and McCarthy

Unfortunately, I'm not at the office, so I can't ask what makes these especially appealing.

Books aside, perhaps the best piece of advice is making sure you put into practice what you learn. If you look up a grammar point (or vocab, too), make sure you use it as many times as possible at first. You'll get used to new language much more quickly, and you'll be less likely to forget it.

Good luck!

[Eric18]

You might also get yourself a copy of Grammar Troublespots - yet another Cambridge title - which illuminates many good, or predictable, mistakes. I often recommend it to both native and non-native speakers in advanced writing courses.

Stay away, however, from the vastly over-rated Azar series.

[michèle 2]

m not a native speaker but I've found this book very useful when I started teaching English.
A practical English grammar by A.J. Thomson and A.V. Martinet
Michèle

[michèle 2]

To be honest, a sales assistant in WH Smith ( Paris ) found out this useful grammar book for me 20 years ago!!