Simon Winchester is one of those authors who writes with a kind of slow deliberation and purposeful use of words. I enjoyed this book for the little details he uncovered, perhaps more than the broad history he recounted. A well developed book. I have lent this book to so many people that gave it back without having enjoyed it / or finished it because of its slow pace that I realise it is not for everyone - I enjoyed because of its attention to detail.Simon Winchester is one of those authors who writes with a kind of slow deliberation and purposeful use of words. I enjoyed this book for the little details he uncovered, perhaps more than the broad history he recounted. A well developed book. I have lent this book to so many people that gave it back without having enjoyed it / or finished it because of its slow pace that I realise it is not for everyone - I enjoyed because of its attention to detail.

A powerful biography about the amazing story of the Oxford English Dictionary. Well worth a read if you are into astounding non-fiction. Flows well, easy to read, and great for your knowledge bank! William Minor has huge character, and jumps out at the reader as something amazing. Well worth a read!

Highlighting both human triumph and tragedy, this is an absolutely fascinating read and proves the maxim "truth is stranger than fiction". Written in a compelling style, the book traces the history of the compilation of the Oxford English Dictionary and the life of one of its major contributors. You will never look at a dictionary the same way again!