Using example sentences from 12 different dictionaries, Burrows constructs an alphabetical collection of flash stories that are further arranged under specific words (ie Cc: cookery features 1 story; Bb blasphemy features 2 stories etc). There is a playful tone to several of the entries & although I suspect that I won't remember much of the book several months from now, it was a fun experience. I am using this for #yellowspine #52bookclub
Reading breakthrough. Just today I realized a word I use frequently and a word I read in books are the same thing and I have been reading it‘s pronunciation wrong. I say it right from my brain but when I read it it comes out like the bottom pronunciation. Even if I‘m reading it aloud. 🤦🏼♀️🤦🏼♀️🤦🏼♀️🤦🏼♀️
1. Word
2. Correct pronunciation
3. My brain pronunciation
I think I found my next book. Almost done with my #epicslowread of Claudius the God.
pickJez Burroughs has a grand time revealing the sweep and scope of the English language...using dictionary examples of word usage from a dozen dictionaries. Burroughs veers among voices and tones from multiple time periods, and the effect is hilarious. #earlyreviewers #linguistics #language
My favorite story is under Virginity: “Whatever Floats Your Boat.” Full review: https://www.librarything.com/work/20934189/reviews/157293010
Four SLICES of bread,
Three SPOONS of sugar,
Two FUNDAMENTAL concepts of democracy,
And a SIN in the eyes of God.
These stories are written by stringing together bits of examples from dictionary definitions of words. #linguistics #language #humor #wordfreak #dictionary #usage
Not really an #arc because it‘s been out a short while, but I like anything about words, language, etymology or linguistics so this #bookmail from #earlyreviewers on Librarything should be interesting; thanks #HarperCollins
pickHappy Pub Day to this gem! Thanks to @HarperPerennial for this ARC.
Wasnt sure what to expect upon reading this. The cover and title grabbed me right away though.
When looking up a word or phrase in the dictionary there is always a sample phrase/sentance of the word and a definition. Burrows has taken those samples and phrases and assembled them into very short stories. Some only a paragraph long. I found this very interesting and original!
pickLots of fun. I‘m not finished yet, but love this collection of stories, poems, & vignettes based on sample dictionary sentences. Includes fun illustrations too. As one of the blurbs says: for word nerds and language lovers. @HarperPerennial
Dictionary Stories: Short Fictions and Other Findings | 
