MacAuley's book should be required reading for any new writers looking to improve their technique and style. It is easy to understand and very informative with a host of examples of good technique in practise. Even better is the section showing examples of poorly written segments by good authors.
After reading this book I gave a copy of it to my friend, an aspiring novellist, and it opened his eyes to thinking critically about writing. A must read for those who have not already undergone intensive workshop training, etc.