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happylilkt's review against another edition
3.0
very interesting. I was hoping it would be more in the style of [b:Wide as the Waters|375352|Wide as the Waters The Story of the English Bible and the Revolution it Inspired|Benson Bobrick|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1347372846s/375352.jpg|2419766], but it was more like [b:The Devil in the White City|21996|The Devil in the White City Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America|Erik Larson|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1312066724s/21996.jpg|3486041] in how sensationalized some of it is (though not inappropriately so. the author was not unnecessarily graphic with some of the seedier parts, it simply is a bizarre and sensational story at times). It is easy to forget that severe mental illness such as this "madman" suffered from is often ugly and uncomfortable, so this is not for children or the squeamish. But it is a fun, short read with insights on two very different personalities who were both passionate about lexicography.
If you are not into the colorful and tragic history of the madman, maybe look for a drier history of the OED instead.
I enjoyed it but the content was somewhat distressing at times so I was glad I didn't have others with me (I listened to this on audio book).
If you are not into the colorful and tragic history of the madman, maybe look for a drier history of the OED instead.
I enjoyed it but the content was somewhat distressing at times so I was glad I didn't have others with me (I listened to this on audio book).
mike_word's review against another edition
dark
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
5.0
heathergstl's review against another edition
5.0
I totally enjoyed this little piece of history!! The part of me that is obsessed with all things related to words is a bit sad that there was not more about the actual creation of the OED. However, the part of me that is obsessed with the psychology of those who commit violent crimes, especially those criminals from the 17th through the 19th centuries was absolutely in HEAVEN throughout the entire book!!
lauraborkpower's review against another edition
2.0
Winchester choose a great topic, but he really failed on the delivery. His writing is unclear and not very exciting, especially for such a cool story. I found it ultimately disappointing.