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mollieajohnson's review against another edition
I tried for 3 years in a row to read the “word of the day” for a whole year and failed every time so I am now finally giving up
benjaminemoats's review against another edition
5.0
This was probably the most fun nonfiction book I’ve read. A book entirely about words could seem hit or miss, but this was super interesting. For every day of the year, Susie Dent talks about a related phrase or word and dives into its etymology. For example, “stealing someone’s thunder” refers to a man who quite literally stole a stage effect that sounds like thunder to use in his play. “Turning a blind eye” originated with the partially blind admiral Horatio Nelson being unable to see a ship coming from his side. I also learned lots of fun words like “crambazzled” and “hurkle-durkle”. It probably helps that I have a short attention span and like learning random facts. This book has piqued my interest in etymology.
1librarianspath's review against another edition
4.5
I love Susie Dent, so I was quite pleased when I received this book last Christmas. I enjoyed coming across some old favourites (we all know somebody that feels the need to scurryfunge…my natural state of being), and some new ones. Interesting descriptions and a wide range of words. Very enjoyable!
darrenhickling's review against another edition
5.0
This is funny, enlightening and entertaining. Easy to pick up at random or binge on. Highly recommended!
hikio123's review against another edition
funny
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
4.5
The book was made to be read in 2020, but even then, I still very much enjoyed it. The format of reading one word a day, and learning something new everyday, was really fun and it started my day on a good note. If you haven't picked it up yet, it is a very quick and fun read, especially when reading it one word a day as intended.