Language Visible: Unraveling the Mystery of the Alphabet from A to Z by David Sacks
Book Description
Letters are tangible language. Joining together in endless combinations to actually show speech, letters convey our messages and tell our stories. While we encounter these tiny shapes hundreds of times a day, we take for granted the long, fascinating history behind one of the most fundamental of human inventions -- the alphabet.
The heart of the book is the 26 fact-filled “biographies” of letters A through Z, each one identifying the letter’s particular significance for modern readers, tracing its development from ancient forms, and discussing its noteworthy role in literature and other media. We learn, for example, why the letter X has a sinister and sexual aura, how B came to signify second best, why the word “mother” in many languages starts with M, and what is the story of O.
Packed with information and lavishly illustrated, Language Visible is not only accessible and entertaining, but essential to the appreciation of our own language. (Amazon.Com)

Goof-Proof College Admissions Essays
Book Description
With more qualified students than ever, competition for top-notch colleges is at an all-time high. In addition to impeccable grades and high test scores, students need to write an intelligent, concise essay to gain admission. It's vital to get the tools and strategies necessary for crafting a winning essay. Learn the goof-proof way to write specific types of essays, along with rules, tips, and do's and don'ts. (Amazon.Com)

A Rulebook for Arguments by Anthony Weston

Reading Between the Lines: Improve Your Scores on English and Social Studies Tests
Most students in middle schools and high schools will have to answer document-based questions (DBQ’s) in their many challenging tests including SATs, ACTs, and state assessment exams. Even teachers of high school advanced placement classes expect their students to write effective document-based essays. Reading Between the Lines is designed to help students of any age understand, practice, and write effective DBQs so that they can improve their scores on standardized tests and become a more successful student. This workbook helps students practice brainstorming, drafting, revising, and editing with proven methods. It also includes a glossary of essay terms and sample essays.