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'The Professor and the Madman' by Simon Winchester is a nonfiction account that delves into the fascinating story of the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) and the unlikely partnership between Dr. James Murray, the editor of the OED, and Dr. W.C. Minor, an American inmate at an asylum for the criminally insane. The book explores the intricate process of compiling the dictionary, highlighting the contributions made by Minor despite his tragic past and mental health struggles. Winchester weaves together the stories of these two men, providing insights into the challenges faced during the seventy-year editorial challenge of producing the OED, all while offering a glimpse into the Victorian era and the world of lexicography.

The narrative of 'The Professor and the Madman' unfolds as a captivating tale of friendship, dedication, and the complexities of the English language. Winchester's writing style draws readers into the world of dictionaries and wordsmiths, offering a blend of historical accounts, personal stories, and scholarly insights. Through the lens of Murray and Minor's collaboration, the book sheds light on the meticulous efforts that went into creating the OED, showcasing the impact of their work on shaping the English language and the dictionary itself.

If you liked The Professor and the Madman, here are the top 100 books to read next:

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  1. The Surgeon of Crowthorne is a captivating narrative that delves into the history of the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) through the intertwined lives of two remarkable men, James Murray and William Minor. The book sheds light on the challenges and triumphs faced during the dictionary's creation, highlighting the dedication, madness, and monomania that characterized the project. Winchester's writing style immerses readers in a world of intellectual pursuit, madness, and collaboration, painting a vivid picture of Victorian England and the academic adventure that led to the birth of one of the greatest works in the English language.

    The central intrigue of the book lies in Minor's story, a surgeon residing in Crowthorne who played a significant role in the OED's development despite being committed to a secure hospital for the criminally insane. The narrative weaves together the histories of the OED and its key contributors, offering a poignant tale of tragedy, loss, and human connection amidst the creation of a monumental linguistic achievement. Winchester's storytelling skillfully combines biography and narrative history, providing a compelling account of the enduring impact of the OED and the unlikely collaboration that shaped it.

    murder (’m3ːdə(r)), sb. Forms: α. 1 morþor, -ur, 3–4 morþre, 3–4,6 murthre, 4 myrþer, 4–6 murthir, morther, 5 Sc. murthour, murthyr, 5–6 murthur, 6 mwrther, Sc. morthour, 4–9 (now dial. and Hist. or a...

  2. #2

    The Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson
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    In "The Feather Thief" by Kirk Wallace Johnson, the author weaves together various threads including the history of fly tying, the heist of rare bird specimens from the Tring Museum, and the author's own pursuit of the stolen feathers. The narrative delves into the story of Edwin Rist, a young musician who steals valuable bird skins for his fly tying hobby, intertwining elements of true crime, history, and obsession.

    The book explores the consequences of Rist's theft on the scientific community, the underground world of fly tying, and the historical significance of the stolen bird specimens. Johnson's writing style intricately connects the past with the present, drawing parallels between Victorian fashion, Alfred Russel Wallace's quest for bird skins, and the modern-day obsession with fly tying using rare feathers.

    By the time Edwin Rist stepped off the train onto the platform at Tring, forty miles north of London, it was already quite late. The residents of the sleepy town had finished their suppers; the little...

  3. #3

    Consider the Fork: A History of How We Cook and Eat by Bee Wilson
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    'Consider the Fork: A History of How We Cook and Eat' by Bee Wilson is a detailed and entertaining examination of the history of cooking and eating habits throughout civilization. The author delves into the evolution of food preparation, exploring the tools and techniques humans have developed over time. From the use of fire for cooking to the innovations in molecular gastronomy, Wilson traces the impact of technology on our cuisine and eating habits. The book covers a wide range of topics, including the development of kitchen gadgets, changes in kitchen designs, and the cultural influences on cooking styles and techniques. Written in a chatty and personal style, the author shares anecdotes about chefs, foods, and her own experiences in the kitchen, making the history of cooking engaging and informative.

    As a form of technology, however, boiling is far from obvious. The pot transformed the possibilities of cooking. To be able to boil something—in a liquid, which may or may not impart additional flavor...

  4. During WWI and WWII, young women worked in factories painting clock dials with radium, unaware of the dangers. As they fell ill, facing bone deterioration and tumors, they fought for justice against the corporations that denied blame. The book outlines their struggles, the development of worker protection laws, and the lasting impact on medical knowledge.

    Katherine Schaub had a jaunty spring in her step as she walked the brief four blocks to work. It was 1 February 1917, but the cold didn’t bother her one bit; she had always loved the winter snows of h...

  5. #5

    Salt: A World History by Mark Kurlansky
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    'Salt: A World History' by Mark Kurlansky delves into the fascinating history of salt and its impact on humanity throughout the ages. The book explores how salt has influenced world events, shaped civilizations, and played a crucial role in various aspects of human life. Kurlansky's narrative style weaves together historical facts, anecdotes, and cultural insights to provide a comprehensive view of the significance of salt in different societies. From the ancient uses of salt as currency to its role in wars, trade, and food preservation, the book offers a unique perspective on a seemingly ordinary substance.

    Kurlansky's writing style in 'Salt: A World History' has been described as engaging, informative, and well-researched. The book covers a wide range of topics related to salt, including its production methods, historical contexts, and cultural significance. Readers have praised the author for his ability to make a seemingly mundane subject like salt captivating and thought-provoking, highlighting the intricate connections between salt and human history in a compelling manner.

    ON THE EASTERN end of North Africa’s almost unimaginably vast desert, the Nile River provides a fertile green passage only a few miles wide down both banks. Egyptian civilization has always been cramm...

  6. 'Cod: A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World' by Mark Kurlansky delves into the history, impact, and significance of cod fishing on various cultures and societies throughout the centuries. Through a mix of historical facts, cultural anecdotes, and personal reflections, the author explores the role of cod in shaping trade routes, technological advancements, and political landscapes. not only covers the rise of cod as a valuable resource but also sheds light on the environmental consequences of overfishing and depletion of cod populations.

    Kurlansky's writing style in 'Cod' is described as engaging, informative, and well-researched. Readers appreciate the author's ability to present complex historical and scientific information in a readable and entertaining manner. is praised for its blend of storytelling, historical insights, and culinary references, making it an intriguing exploration of how a seemingly mundane subject like cod can have far-reaching implications on human history and society.

    Amedieval fisherman is said to have hauled up a three-foot-long cod, which was common enough at the time. And the fact that the cod could talk was not especially surprising. But what was astonishing w...

  7. 'Six Frigates: The Epic History of the Founding of the U.S. Navy' by Ian W. Toll delves into the historical events surrounding the establishment of the U.S. Navy, focusing on the challenges, debates, and controversies faced during its inception. Toll provides a detailed account of the political, economic, and military landscape of the time, highlighting the significance of naval power in shaping America's position in the world. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Toll uncovers the intricacies of naval construction, the strategic decisions made, and the impact of these actions on America's growth as a military and economic powerhouse.

    Toll's writing style in 'Six Frigates' is praised for its thoroughness and attention to detail, drawing from a multitude of sources to present a comprehensive narrative of the early years of the U.S. Navy. Readers appreciate the way Toll weaves together historical facts, personal accounts, and political maneuverings to create a vivid portrayal of the challenges faced by the nation as it sought to establish itself as a maritime force to be reckoned with. not only covers the technical aspects of naval construction but also delves into the political intrigues and international relations that shaped the course of American history during this crucial period.

    On October 8, 1793, the U.S. minister to Portugal, David Humphreys, addressed a circular letter “To All Governors, Magistrates, Officers Civil, Military & others concerned, in the United States of Ame...

  8. Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time by Dava Sobel is a nonfiction book that delves into the historical quest to solve the problem of determining longitude at sea. The narrative focuses on the life and work of John Harrison, a rogue clock maker who invents the chronometer, a groundbreaking timekeeping device that revolutionizes navigation. Through a blend of heroism and chicanery, the book provides a brief history of astronomy, navigation, and clockmaking, offering readers a new perspective on the world. Sobel's writing style is described as easily digestible, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a wide audience in a relatively short read.

    The book is praised for its engaging storytelling that reads like a novel despite being nonfiction. It presents a captivating account of Harrison's forty-year obsession with building the perfect timekeeper, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs faced during the scientific quest to solve the longitude problem. Sobel's ability to bring the characters and historical events to life, coupled with her skill in explaining technical aspects in simple terms, makes Longitude a compelling and informative read for those interested in history, science, or navigation.

    Once on a Wednesday excursion when I was a little girl, my father bought me a beaded wire ball that I loved. At a touch, I could collapse the toy into a flat coil between my palms, or pop it open to m...

  9. Destiny of the Republic by Candice Millard is a gripping narrative that delves into the assassination of President James Garfield and the medical mishaps that ultimately led to his demise. Millard skillfully weaves together the stories of key historical figures like Alexander Graham Bell, Joseph Lister, and Charles Guiteau, providing a comprehensive look at the era and the events surrounding Garfield's presidency. Through detailed accounts of the medical practices of the time and the political climate of the late 19th century, the book offers a fascinating exploration of a lesser-known chapter in American history.

    Even severed as it was from the rest of the body, the hand was majestic. Sixteen feet tall, with long, tapered fingers holding aloft a twenty-nine-foot torch, it sat on the banks of a small lake in Ph...

  10. 'Krakatoa: The Day the World Exploded: August 27, 1883' by Simon Winchester is a detailed account of the catastrophic eruption of the Krakatau volcano in 1883. Winchester weaves together vulcanology, geology, history, technology, Indonesian legends, and politics to narrate the story of the Krakatoa eruption and its wide-ranging impacts on society and the world. delves into the historical backdrop of the Dutch East India Company, Indonesian history, geology, geography, and militant Islam, providing a comprehensive exploration of the events leading up to and following the eruption.

    He also had one volcano that was extinct. But, as he said, ‘One never knows!’ So he cleaned out the extinct volcano, too. If they are well cleaned out, volcanoes burn slowly and steadily, without any ...

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