Book Reviews

‘The best moments in reading are when you come across something - a thought, a feeling, a way of looking at things - which you had thought special and particular to you. And now, here it is, set down by someone else, a person you have never met, someone even who is long dead. And it is as if a hand has come out, and taken yours.’ Alan Bennett

“Many a book is like a key to unknown chambers within the castle of one’s own self.” ― Franz Kafka

Saturday 23 March 2013

The Horologicon - Mark Forsyth




In The Horologican, meaning ‘book of hours’, author Mark Forsyth presents us with a collection of weird and wonderful words from within the depths of the English language, ordered by the hours in the day, so that we can grasp them at the time of day that we can most appropriately use them.

It’s a really entertaining read for anyone even remotely fascinated by language. Starting at 6am and taking us through until midnight, the author has compiled an amazing collection of words that perfectly fit so many of the situations we encounter everyday.

When you buddle your oxter in the morning, or have to scrouge on the bus, and then fudgel at work, you’ll know exactly the right terminology to employ next time. I think everyone will read and find their favourites amongst these wonderful words.

This is a lovely volume to dip in and out of; indeed, that is what the author advises, to treat it as a work of reference and do not try and read it in one go! I found the author’s style of writing very engaging and informative, and I think this is a book I will return to again and again, both to learn and be informed by it, and for it to raise a smile.

Published by Icon Books

You can find the author on twitter @inkykfool and on his blog here.

Originally reviewed for the amazon vine programme.

6 comments:

  1. The Horologican - what a fabulous title, it sounds so much more impressive than the book of hours. Thanks for sharing this.

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    1. It's a great title isn't it Barbara! Thanks for commenting.

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  2. I really like The Horologicon, but I prefered Mark Forsyth's first book, The Etymologicon. Have you read it?

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    1. I haven't read that one yet no Lucy, but I plan to get hold of it and try it as this one was so enjoyable.

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  3. I loved The Etymologicon and I have this one on my kindle. I'm thinking I may have to buy it as a real life book because it seems to be more of a dip in and out book rather than a read in one go, as you say. I'd definitely recommend The Etymologicon to have you smiling too.

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    1. It is a gorgeous book too, the cover is really appealing on the hardback with the silver detail. It is defintely one to dip in and out of I think, that's what I've done at least, so may be easier to read this way than on the kindle. I have to try The Etymologicon now too, thanks!

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