Literally : Amazing English Words And Where They Come From
A stunning nonfiction picture book about the global diversity hidden in the English language.
Did you know that English words come from all over the world and that their meanings have changed along their journey? Our word 'zero' comes from the Arabic word for empty space. 'Companion' is from the Latin for with bread.
With simple descriptions and dazzling, evocative and witty illustrations, this is a fascinating introduction to the rich history and cultural diversity of our language.
Words included: orchestra (Japanese); zero (Arabic); guru (Sanskrit); ukulele (Hawaiian); jaguar (Tupi); royalty (Norman French); companion (Latin); kookaburra (Wradjuri); worm (Old English); mummy (Persian); caribou (Algonquin); safari (Swahili).
About the Author
Patrick Skipworth studied Classics and Linguistics in London and the Netherlands, connecting the dots between ancient cultures, their histories, and their languages. Today, Patrick is a children's book editor, but he likes to write his own books when he can. Some of his favorite topics are prehistoric bugs, super-intelligent robots, and legends from far away places. Patrick's favorite word is mosaic.Nicholas Stevenson's personality and past are as colorful as his illustrations. Now living in London, he spent years in the Seychelles dressing like Peter Pan most days. Nicholas produces lively, engaging, mysterious and deeply painterly work for the publishing and music industries.