Words: 384

Dimensions: 12.9x12.9cm

The Oxford English Dictionary has a long connection with elite institutions and Victorian men. However, the dictionary did not belong solely to the experts but was based on contributions from members of the public. By 1928, its 414,825 entries had been gathered from an unexpected and diverse group of people, from astronomers to murderers, naturalists, pornographers, suffragists, and queer couples.

Lexicographer Sarah Ogilvie extensively explores previously underutilized archives to tell a story of the OED that belongs to the people. She reveals, for the first time, the full story of the creation of one of the most famous books in the world – and celebrates the extraordinary efforts of the people behind the dictionary.