A review by heidi_downing
The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams

dark informative reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

This semi-epistolary/historical fiction novel more or less follows the bildungsroman format to tell the readers of the life of protagonist Esme. Whilst Esme is entirely a fictional creation by Williams, many characters follow true historical accuracy to real people creating an interesting insight into the past. This book has a heavy subject matter that explores life during the war but also speaks of suffrage and linguistic discrimination through the creation of the dictionary (OED). The book is most interesting in discussions of class and gender, looking at the misogynistic history of language and subsequent forgotten words. Whilst mostly slow pace, there are many moments where characters, such as townsfolk Mabel, are so deeply described that they are brought to life through the pages. This book is incredibly creative in storytelling devices, including using dictionary definitions as a plot device in heated moments to narrate. If you ever wanted to know what a 'bondmaid' is then this is the book for you.
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