Inspired initially by the ‘Cemetery of Lost Books’ in Zafon’s Shadow of the Wind, Ruth Wajnryb has constructed a home for words that are disappearing from today’s English language. The author provides a glimpse of the history of each chosen word and expression, with examples of their usage. The book is, however, much more than a last resting place for words that have served us well but which must now meet their makers. Wajnryb argues that a more standardised education system and mass communication have reduced the variety and colour of language, as regional expressions have been abandoned in favour of a more internationalised vocabulary. The adoption of English as the world’s language, separate from its cultural origins, has meant the loss of ‘local’ English idiom and vocabulary. In a world full of visual imagery, where time is the enemy, language has become plainer and more abbreviated, with a concentration on content rather than expression. Cheerio Tom, Dick and Harry will appeal to those interested in the history of the English language, and to the generations who will recognise the fading words—those in their 40s and over. It is a great gift for Father’s Day and Christmas. Language changes with each generation; this book is really recording the changing of the guard.

Chris Harrington is a bookseller at Books in Print bookshop in Melbourne

This review from Australian Bookseller & Publisher magazine is reproduced by kind permission of Thorpe-Bowker, a division of R R Bowker LLC. © Copyright 2008, Thorpe-Bowker

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