Ciao, amici! Not long ago, I was one of Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi’s hosts for their cover reveal of their updated book, The Emotion Thesaurus, 2nd Ed. If you missed that post, you can find it here.
But I’m not done. There’s more to say. I read it, I loved it, and I’d like to share my review before it even goes live.
★★★★★ Somehow They Topped the First One
I bought the original version of The Emotion Thesaurus in 2012 and was so delighted with the purchase, I selected other Thesaurus products as the authors released them. When I learned there was a new, expanded edition of The Emotion Thesaurus, I didn’t hesitate. I snatched it right up.
If you’re like me, you haven’t looked at the opening pages since you first bought the book. Trust me—look at them again. The lessons and examples are invaluable. Ackerman and Puglisi have provided an excellent primer on what to do and what not to do. The beginning offers five vehicles for portraying emotions, ways to make emotions authentic, an in-depth tutorial on using dialogue, a detailed section on nonverbal communication, and some great examples of subtext.
This is all before we get to any of the emotions. And that information alone is worth the cost of the book.
But they aren’t close to finished.
There are now over 130 emotions to choose from. Each listing gives a definition, physical cues, internal reactions, mental reactions, acute reactions, signs of repression, options for escalation and de-escalation, associated power verbs (I love that), and writer’s tips.
In short, it’s a comprehensive overview of dozens of emotions and how to use them effectively in stories. This is one resource you’ll use again and again (and again). You don’t want to miss it.
You can preorder your copy now: Amazon | Kobo | Indiebound
If you have a copy of the first, are interested in the second, or were one of the lucky few to preview the new version, sound off below. I’d love to talk about it.
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After much internal debate, I preordered this one. I have the original, and can’t wait to see how they expanded it. I remember with the first one being a little disappointed that some of the emotions I was looking for weren’t included. I’m looking forward to this one! Great review, Staci!
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Hopefully they’re all there this time. 🤞
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Sounds like a gem, Staci. Thanks so much for sharing. These tips and tools are always appreciated. Thanks again. 🙂
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I’m always happy to share great content. Thanks, Natalie.
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Yay!!! I love the first book. I’m skipping over to Amazon to preorder Volume II. Thanks, Staci!
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That’s great. I’m sure Angela and Becca will be pleased to hear it. Thanks, Sue.
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I loved this series of books and have preordered my copy of this one. Can’t wait to see the new entries.
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It is a great series. And I think you’ll really love the second edition. Thanks, Joan.
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I do have all their books and will also be purchasing this one. The Emotion Thesaurus was the first writing “help” book I purchased! I keep it beside my computer at all times and find it more than helpful when I get stuck. Thanks for sharing, Staci!
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It was one of my first, too, Jan. I think I bought it right after a few of James Scott Bell’s books. It’s definitely one of my favorite references. And the new version is even better!
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I love their books. All are invaluable assets. Great review, Staci, I’ll definitely pre-order the second edition and now I need to check out Mae’s find! lol
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Couldn’t agree more, Jacquie. Their work is top-notch.
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Oh my gosh, thank you for the wonderful review, Staci! I am so glad you feel we’ve done a good job in this second edition. It was like visiting an old friend, and we really enjoyed the chance to work on this book again and make it even stronger. 🙂
And all these comments–oh my gosh, I love you guys! Reading this has made my day <3.
Angela
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I’m always happy to promote authors, particularly generous ones and talented ones. You and Becca happen to be both, so it was a no-brainer for me. Glad to do it.
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I’ve used the earlier version so many times – it’s really invaluable. Sounds like I need to pre-order this new one.
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It’s a fabulous resource, Teri. You won’t be sorry.
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This is a really cool idea, Staci. Thanks for sharing your take on it. Hugs on the wing!
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Thanks, Teagan!
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I have the first one as well and pre-ordered my copy. This has been very helpful and I cannot wait until it arrives.
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It’s a great reference. If you liked the first, you’ll love the second.
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I have the first Emotional Thesaurus and generally keep it handy when I’m writing. I was excited about the second issue and just hopped over to Amazon to pre-order. But something happened while I was there.
It’s been a while since I looked at the selection of books Angela and Becca have released. I found a Rural Place & Setting Thesaurus, perfect timing as I contemplate my next story. So I ordered that instead. 🙂
Amazon says it will be here Friday. I can’t wait. And, of course, I’ll eventually get around to ordering Volume 2 of the Emotional Thesaurus. I love how helpful these books can be!
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I can see why that one caught your interest. Another good one!
And now I’m REALLY on pins and needles waiting to hear about your next project.
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Reblogged this on DSM Publications and commented:
Check out this review of the book, The Emotion Thesaurus, 2nd Edition, by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi, as featured in this post from Staci Troilo’s blog.
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Thanks for sharing, Don.
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You’re welcome.
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I definitely want and need this book!
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It’s fabulous. Then again, I think all their resources are. I recommend their entire line.
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Thanks for the review and recommendation Staci. I tend to get stuck describing some things using the same words and this sounds like I need to add it to my collection to help me over that hump.
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Sometimes the words flow. Others, I hit a rut, too. This can definitely help, Denise.
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Staci, I have a feeling this is the kind of book that leaves one wondering ‘how did I manage before?’ A perfect aid for all emotional writing ..many thanks for the recommendation and heading over to pre-order!
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You nailed it, Annika. That’s exactly what you end up saying. I know Angela and Becca will appreciate the kind words and the purchase.
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