Word Hunters: The Curious Dictionary (Nick Earls & Terry Whidborne, UQP)

Nick Earls and Terry Whidborne’s new book for children brings to life the past by indulging the word nerd in all of us. When twins Lexi and Al find a strange old dictionary in their school library, they never could have imagined that by opening it they would discover a whole new world—or, rather, an old one. Now stuck in 1877 with only the word ‘hello’ as a clue, Lexi and Al learn that before they can go home, they have to go further back—even if this means nearly dying in myriad dangerous historical circumstances. Clever, funny and refreshingly dorky, Word Hunters manages to give etymology a reputation makeover, turning the subject into a dangerous and fascinating concept that kids will love. The historical detail is brilliant and well researched, while Whidborne’s gorgeous illustrations give depth to the highly imaginative world. The relationship between the twins is delightfully realistic, from the inappropriately timed insults to the deep-seated trust that they display. All-round fun and a little bit irreverent, Earls and Whidborne have created what is sure to be a favourite with a 9- to 13-year-old audience.

Meg Whelan works at the Hill of Content Bookshop in Melbourne

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

Category: Reviews