WRITING WITH A THESIS: A RHETORIC AND READER is based on the persuasive principle-the development and support of a thesis in order to persuade a reader, which is exactly the skill beginning writers in freshman composition just like you need to develop. The book dispenses clear and practical writing advice in a clear and practical way. Leavened with lots of good humor-in both its advice and in its examples of good professional writing-WRITING WITH A THESIS is renowned for being useful and enjoyable to read. Nineteen of the book's 50 professional essays are new to this edition and 3 of 10 student essays are also new, providing fresh voices, variety, and relevance. Almost all of the essays are short and easy to read so that class time can be devoted not to what the readings mean, but to what they mean for your writing. Students receive the most up-to-date information on MLA documentation with the enclosed tri-fold card providing NEW 2009 MLA Handbook formats.