Jenny Hobbs’s commonplace book is a phenomenon of modern English which dates back to the 17th century. It is also a glorious indulgence… Hobbs has collected favourite quotes from favourite authors on the subject of writing and arranged them in broad categories. They range from the gnomic to the superficial, which are generally more fun. This will be as invaluable as Roget’s Thesaurus for after-dinner speakers, or bedside reading, or even writer stuck in a cul-de-sac and looking for a quote. Anyone who scribbles a little – whether for love, for a friends, or for money – should reserve shelf space for both these companions.
