Interesting Stories about Curious Words: From Stealing Thunder to Red Herrings

Join Susie Dent, lexicographer extraordinaire and Queen of Countdown’s Dictionary Corner, on a curious and exceedingly interesting adventure through all the very best RED HERRINGS, COCK AND BULL STORIES and NINE-DAY WONDERS in the English language.



Who was SWEET FANNY ADAMS?



What’s the dramatic true story behind STEALING THUNDER?



Why is it CHANCING YOUR ARM when you take a risk?



What do bears have to do with LICKING INTO SHAPE?



Or robbers with PULLING SOMEONE’S LEG?



Why are CIRCLES VICIOUS?



And, what’s so bad about a WHITE ELEPHANT?



‘Nobody on earth knows more about the English language than Susie Dent’ Gyles Brandreth

Format: Paperback
Pages: 432
Imprint: John Murray UK
Publication date: 10/10/2024