Book Search: Nonfiction about English language ca. 1980s

Cafe Society
1

I had a book when I was about 10, so that would be 1985.

The book was about various interesting things to do with the English language and writing. For example, there was a section on ciphers, and a section on different simple printing methods you could try. The book was “narrarated” by a boy, a girl, a parrot , and a mouse who would appear in line drawings throughout the book to demonstrate different ideas and principles. I particularly remember a sequence which discussed the lack of neuter pronouns, and discussed the various alternatives in the context of homework. For example, “everyobe must do his or her homework” (I do his? Asked the girl. I do hers? Asked the boy) or a failed neuter pronoun called “thon”: “everyone must do thon’s homework” (who is thon? both asked).

The book was tan or rather the color of unbleached paper, it was the same size/shape as a paperback Tintin book (larger than magazine format) except more pages, and perfect bound. I think it was printed in black, blue and yellow only. It’s entirely possible my mom bought from some feminist collective, but she also might have bought it in our local bookstore (Brooklyn, NY ).

I was sure it was called “Word Works” but I can’t find anything by that name.

2

Are you on goodreads? There’s a group there specifically for finding books you’ve forgotten the title of.

3

Thanks, no, I’m not on goodreads. I’ve had various invitations but it doesn’t interest me to join.

4

Here it is! I loved that book, too, although oddly enough I liked Math for Smarty Pants even more. The whole series is excellent.

5

Hark upon the gale! You’ve got it in one Fretful. Thank you!!!