the perspective of women and everyday people in the writing down of the meaning of words

My latest listen, courtesy of Libby from my local public library, is The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams.  This is a fictionalized version of the origins of the Oxford English Dictionary, wrapped up in the story of Esme. A young woman, raised by her father, who grows up in the Scriptorium where he works as a lexicographer. 

It makes me want to read more about the origins of dictionaries, and how the words have been defined, and by whom, based on what context. I had never thought before about the lack of the perspective of women and everyday people in the writing down of the meaning of words. 

Highly recommended. The Bookbinder of Jericho, the second book by Pip Williams, has been added to my list of must reads. 

P.S. let me not forget give a nod to Pippa Bennett-Warner, who beautifully narrates this audio version. 

Comments

[Gill]

So glad you enjoyed it - my book group were besotted with Esme and her friends. I was so pleased to read The Bookbinder of Jericho and find it similar but different. I felt that there must be more stories where that one came from - as indeed there are! Like you, I had never given any thought to how a dictionary was compiled or who chose the words to include. I might have guessed their gender, though ;-)

[Faith]

I loved The Dictionary of Lost Words. Thank you for pointing out The Bookbinder of Jericho, I'll have to add it to my list.

[carol]

I see I am in good company with my enjoyment of this book. I love how books bind us together.