Tom Read Wilson is here to take us on a rip-roaring tour through some of the most astonishing and amusing words in the English language with Every Word Tells a Story.
See how the English language evolved in this extraordinary etymological exploration. From eponyms and toponyms to verbs and the frequentative suffix, Tom Read Wilson knows even the most ordinary-sounding word can have the most surprising story behind it!
Did you know, for instance, that:
- The word ‘bloomers’ comes from Amelia Bloomer, who was a New York postmistress who wanted to move more freely in her knickers?
- Or that the word ‘daisy’ comes from the Old English dæges eage, meaning ‘day’s eye’, because the petals of a daisy open at dawn and close at dusk.
Each fascinating word is explored through a quirky, amusing story alongside the
etymology,
word origin and a
definition. Paired with beautiful, characterful illustrations by Ian Morris
Every Word Tells a Story is the perfect book for young
wordsmiths, encouraging kids and adults alike to have
fun whilst
learning about language.
Tom Read Wilson is a TV presenter, actor, and singer. After graduating from the Royal Academy of Music in 2011, where he studied Musical Theatre and performed in plays and musicals all over the world, Tom stole the nation’s hearts as the hilarious receptionist on Celebs Go Dating. Tom continues to be a regular on our TV screens, among other things, having won Celebrity Mastermind (BBC1), placed 2nd on Celebrity Best Home Cook (BBC1), and appearing on a multitude of shows such as The Wheel (BBC1), 8 out of 10 Cats (Ch4), and Celebrity Juice (ITV). Aside from professional pursuits, supporting the Arts and green initiatives is a great passion for Tom; he is an active campaigner for Wildwood and The Kent Wildlife Trust, as well as an Ambassador for Acting For Others. Tom is a devout logophile who hosts a regular podcast Tom Read Wilson has words with… and has been posting his Word of Day videos since 2016. Find Tom on Twitter and Instagram @TomReadWilson.
Ian Morris is an illustrator based in Manchester, England. His eloquent ink drawings capture characters with extraordinary wit and charm. In 2017, Ian was recognised by the Association of Illustrators in their Top Upcoming Image Makers. He is a regular contributor to Prospect Magazine. His debut picture book 'The Library Book' is published by Thames & Hudson.
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