Plot Summary

The Secret Life of Words

Henry Hitchings
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The Secret Life of Words

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2008

Book Brief

Henry Hitchings

The Secret Life of Words

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

450

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Secret Life of Words: How English Became English, Henry Hitchings traces the linguistic and social history of the English language, highlighting the eclectic origins of common words and phrases, and examining how colonization, conflict, and cultural shifts contributed to its evolution. The book illuminates the hidden links between language, cultural history, and societal values, emphasizing communication's central role.

Informative

Contemplative

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.0

610 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Henry Hitchings' The Secret Life of Words provides a comprehensive, engaging exploration of the history and evolution of the English language. Readers appreciate its informative content and accessible writing style. However, some find the detail overwhelming and the narrative occasionally dry. Overall, it's a well-researched, insightful read for language enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Secret Life of Words?

A reader who enjoys The Secret Life of Words by Henry Hitchings likely loves etymology, language evolution, and word origins. They might also enjoy books like The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester or The Etymologicon by Mark Forsyth, which delve into the intriguing stories behind the English language.

4.0

610 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

450

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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