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

emotional reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

The description of this book really doesn't do it justice.  The decades-long compilation of the very first Oxford English Dictionary is at first a catalyst for Esme's love of words, then the background for her life of learning and experiences through WWI and the women's suffrage movement in the UK.  As she becomes aware of classism, sexism, and the struggles against them, she feels compelled to keep her own record of words in common usage that the editors have decided against including in the dictionary.  The supporting characters are strong and significant in their impact on her story.  In reading the author's note and interviews with the author, it was especially interesting to learn of her inspiration for this novel and where this historical fiction deviated from fact. 
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