Interesting Stories about Curious Words by Susie Dent

A curious and exceedingly interesting adventure through all the very best RED HERRINGS, COCK AND BULL STORIES and NINE-DAY WONDERS in the English language. Who was SWEET FANNY ADAMS? What's the dramatic true story behind STEALING THUNDER? Why is it CHANCING YOUR ARM when you take a risk? What do bears have to do with LICKING INTO SHAPE? Or robbers with PULLING SOMEONE'S LEG? Why are CIRCLES VICIOUS? ...And, what's so bad about a WHITE ELEPHANT?

By Susie Dent, lexicographer extraordinaire and Queen of Countdown's Dictionary Corner.

• Hardback, 384 pages.
• Measures 14.2 x 22.1 x 3.6 cm.