Bookish Words and Their Surprising Stories
Book • 2025
David Crystal's 'Bookish Words and Their Surprising Stories' delves into the etymological journeys of words associated with books and publishing.
The book uncovers the fascinating histories behind everyday terms, illustrating how their meanings have evolved over centuries.
Crystal explores words originating from various periods, from Anglo-Saxon times to the digital age, revealing the dynamic interplay between language and culture.
The book highlights the profound impact of the printing press, the Bible, and other literary milestones on the English lexicon.
It is a captivating exploration of the hidden stories behind the words we use to describe the world of books.
The book uncovers the fascinating histories behind everyday terms, illustrating how their meanings have evolved over centuries.
Crystal explores words originating from various periods, from Anglo-Saxon times to the digital age, revealing the dynamic interplay between language and culture.
The book highlights the profound impact of the printing press, the Bible, and other literary milestones on the English lexicon.
It is a captivating exploration of the hidden stories behind the words we use to describe the world of books.
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as a book that explores the role of books in the history of English vocabulary.


Miranda Melcher

David Crystal, "Bookish Words and Their Surprising Stories" (Bodleian Library, 2025)