Reviews: (by author)

Jones, Charlotte Foltz. Illustrated by John O'Brien. Eat Your Words: A Fascinating Look at the Language of Food. New York: Delacorte, 1999. ISBN 0-385-3255-4. $16.95.

Lovers of word origins, of facts in general, and of food will immediately enjoy this book; its premise of explaining the derivations of names of famous food might well hook even reluctant readers. explanations of the origins of saying such as "Your goose is cooked" are further sauce for the gander . While discussing the etiologies of titles for many culinary items from snacks to haute cuisine, Graham crackers to Baked Alaska, the author actually provides a good deal of history and geography, as well as cultural information and timelines (great moments in the history of candy, for example). Cartoonist John O'Brien's illustrations highlight the text. This is a good book to acquaint children with the idea of history as recorded in the way we use language, and its humorous writing makes the book lively.

Recommended reading level: Age 8 and up

Reviewed by Alida Allison

Back to Reviews G-K