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Wonderful Words That Tell a Tale

An etymological exploration of over 100 everyday words

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Wonderful Words That Tell a Tale

By: Tom Read Wilson, Ian Morris
Narrated by: Tom Read Wilson
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About this listen

From famous wordsmith Tom Read Wilson comes another breathtaking adventure through the English language. Discover the fascinating origin stories behind the words we use in this delightful follow-up to Every Word Tells a Story.

Did you know, for example, that:

  • The word 'astronaut' means 'star sailor' in Ancient Greek?
  • Or that the word 'fart' comes from the world's oldest language, Sanskrit, in the form of 'pard'?
  • Or, that the word 'volcano' comes from the Roman god of fire Vulcan?

Unlock a whole new side to language in this abundant literary adventure. The etymological route, definition, and word origin are explored for four words from every letter of the alphabet, unlocking over 100 wonderful word tales. One word per letter is brought to even more life with an extended poem that can be read or enjoyed aloud, making this a wonderful book to read alone or share with friends and family.

Wonderful Words to Tell a Tale is a journey into the English language, a venture to be dipped into and enjoyed over and over again.

Chapter Books & Readers Education & Learning History Literature & Fiction Reading & Writing

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Critic reviews

“The origin stories of over 100 everyday words written by actor and TV presenter Wilson, and illustrated by Manchester’s Morris.”

The Bookseller

“This follow-up to Every Word Tells a Story explores the origins of words, and each one is illustrated with watercolour artwork by Morris.”

The Bookseller

"This fascinating book will have budding bookworms bursting at the seams with newly discovered words."

WRD Magazine

“this is a book likely to prompt many interesting discussions in the classroom and the home.”

Just Imagine
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